Parliament has given a third reading to the Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill (No 2).

The bill, which has several commencement dates, amends the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 to address issues related to liability for damage to rental premises caused by a tenant, contamination of rental premises, and tenancies over rental premises that are unlawful for residential use.

New sections 49A to 49E are inserted in the Act, covering responsibility for damage. These will come into force 28 days after the Royal assent. Section 49A states a general principle for tenant liability for destruction of or damage to the premises.

Part 2 of the amendment Act makes amendments relating to methamphetamine and other contaminants. These will come into force by Order in Council.