Rent increase rules in NZ — notice, frequency, and limits
RTA 1986 — Section 24Updated April 2026⚡ Live legislation content
Quick answer
Landlords must give 60 days written notice before a rent increase. Rent can only be increased once every 12 months. There is no statutory cap on the amount, but the Tenancy Tribunal can review increases significantly above market rent.
Notice requirements
Under Section 24, a landlord must give at least 60 days written notice before increasing rent. The notice must state the new amount and the date it takes effect. Verbal notice is not valid.
12-month rule
Rent cannot be increased more than once in any 12-month period, measured from when the tenancy started (for the first increase) or from the last increase.
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60 days + 12 months — both must be met
A landlord can give 60 days notice but if the increase takes effect less than 12 months after the last one, it's unlawful. The tenant can refuse to pay and the Tribunal will uphold it.
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No statutory cap. However, a tenant can apply to the Tenancy Tribunal within 12 months if the resulting rent is substantially above market rent for comparable properties. The Tribunal can set rent at market level.
Fixed-term tenancies
Rent cannot be increased during a fixed-term unless the agreement specifically provides for it with a clear formula or specified amount. A general right to review is insufficient.
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60 days = calendar days, not working days
Count every day including weekends and public holidays. A notice received on 1 January that takes effect 1 March is exactly 59 days — one day short and invalid.
Common questions
Only if the tenancy agreement specifically provides for it with a clear formula or amount. A general right to increase is unenforceable.
The Tribunal considers comparable properties in the same area. Tenants should gather rental listings and comparison evidence before applying.
60 calendar days — every day including weekends and public holidays.
No. A rent increase cannot take effect before the 60-day notice period expires and cannot be backdated under any circumstances.
Valid only if the clause specifies the amount or a formula for calculating it. 'Rent may be reviewed' is unenforceable.
What happens when staff ask this question at 11pm?
"I got a letter saying rent is going up in 45 days — is that enough notice?"
Student accommodation coordinator — received Friday afternoon