New Zealand’s Earthquake Commission (EQC) has backed changes to tenancy laws that give renters greater flexibility to make minor alterations or additions that will secure their furniture and appliances against seismic movements.

The changes, which will take effect from February 11 next year, specify that landlords must not unreasonably withhold consent when tenants seek permissions for such alterations.

“We know from our research that many landlords are already happy to let their tenants secure items like bookcases to walls to make their home safer,” EQC Chief Resilience and Research Officer Jo Horrocks said.

“However, these changes will help tenants who might have been having difficulty in getting approval for this type of work to be done.

“The new law will help tenants, landlords and property managers have good discussions about actions that can be taken to improve safety.”