The bill amends the "Residential Landlord and Tenant Act" to update notice requirements for terminating various types of tenancies and enhance tenant protections. For week-to-week tenancies, either party can terminate the agreement with a written notice at least ten days prior to the termination date. The notice period for month-to-month tenancies is increased from thirty days to sixty days, with a further extension to one hundred twenty days for tenants aged sixty-two years or older. Year-to-year tenancies continue to require a three-month notice before the end of the occupation year.

Additionally, the bill revises the language and structure of eviction-related notices and complaint forms, introducing specific templates for a five-day demand notice for nonpayment of rent, a notice of noncompliance, and a notice of termination of tenancy. The bill also includes new legal language regarding eviction proceedings, including a section titled "TENANT'S ANSWER," which outlines defenses tenants can assert against eviction actions, and a "COUNTERCLAIM" section that allows tenants to seek damages from landlords.

Furthermore, the act aims to increase the notification period for rent increases and termination of tenancy for month-to-month tenants, ensuring they receive adequate notice before any changes to their rental agreements. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
719: 34-18-37, 34-18-56