What REALTORS® Need to Know about the 2026 NCR Property Management Forms Change
NC REALTORS® has announced several updates to property management forms for 2026. The changes include revisions to the Exclusive Property Management Agreement, Residential Rental Contract, Notice and Demand for Possession, and two new forms designed to help property managers navigate common rental issues.
Property managers should review the updated forms carefully and speak with their Broker-in-Charge or legal counsel with questions. Below are the key updates to know.
Property Management Agreement clarifies when an agent may pursue landlord claims
Form 401, Exclusive Property Management Agreement, now includes language clarifying when an agent may pursue landlord claims in court.
This is an important update for property managers because legal authority and representation issues can be sensitive. Members should review this language carefully and ensure their firm’s procedures align with the revised form.
Residential Rental Contract adds security deposit alternative language
Form 410-T, Residential Rental Contract, now includes language on the first page to address situations where a landlord may accept a security deposit alternative.
As security deposit alternatives become more common, this update gives property managers a clearer way to document that arrangement in the rental contract.
The landlord may choose to sell instead of re-rent after the tenant breaches
Form 410-T has also been updated to address situations where a landlord chooses to sell the property rather than re-rent it after a tenant breaches the lease.
This update clarifies that the landlord has that election. Property managers should be prepared to explain this option to landlord clients and understand how it may apply after a tenant breach.
Tenants may be billed for costs caused by access issues or lease violations
Members have reported situations in which tenants cause landlords to incur fees by failing to provide access to the property or by otherwise violating lease terms.
The revised Form 410-T now makes clear that if the tenant causes those fees and costs, they may be billed.
This is a practical change for property managers who regularly coordinate access for repairs, inspections, showings, and other property-related needs.
New language addresses the tenant’s personal property after death
Form 410-T now includes a new section addressing what should happen to a tenant’s personal property if the tenant dies while in possession of the rental property.
This is a sensitive situation, and property managers should review the new language carefully so they understand the process outlined in the form.
Habitability language added
Form 410-T also includes new language addressing situations in which a property becomes unfit and uninhabitable.
The update reflects what the law already provides in the statutes, but including the language in the form may help clarify expectations for landlords, tenants, and property managers.
New Small Claims Summary Ejectment Flowchart
NC REALTORS® has added a new Form 418, Small Claims Summary Ejectment Flowchart.
This new form is designed to help members navigate the basics of small claims eviction cases. While it does not replace legal guidance, it may serve as a helpful reference tool for property managers handling eviction-related questions or timelines.
Notice and Demand for Possession updated
Form 427-T, Notice and Demand for Possession, includes technical edits and added language regarding notice of criminal activity.
Property managers should review the revised form before using it and ensure they understand how the new language fits within their firm’s procedures.
New Notice of Month-to-Month Tenancy
NC REALTORS® has also added a new Form 428, Notice of Month-to-Month Tenancy.
This form is designed to remind tenants of the lease terms and to notify them of any rent adjustment once the initial term ends and the tenancy becomes month-to-month.
This may be especially useful for property managers who regularly transition tenants from fixed-term leases to month-to-month arrangements.
What should property managers do now?
Property managers should review the revised forms before using them, paying close attention to Forms 401, 410-T, 418, 427-T, and 428.
The most important updates involve security deposit alternatives, landlord options after tenant breach, tenant-caused costs, tenant death and personal property, habitability language, eviction guidance, criminal activity notices, and month-to-month tenancy notices.
As always, property managers should follow firm policy, consult their Broker-in-Charge, and seek legal guidance when needed. These updates are designed to help clarify common property management scenarios and provide better tools for members working with landlords and tenants.
