Frequently Asked Questions: Renting a Property

If you are looking to rent a property, you may have questions around the process, what’s expected of you as a tenant, and what to do if you encounter any issues during your tenancy. Here we aim to answer some of the most commonly asked questions you might have about renting

How much bond do I pay?

The bond acts as security for the property owner in case there is any damage to the property or rent arrears at the end of your tenancy. Typically, the bond required is the equivalent of up to four weeks' rent. This amount is standard practice and it must be paid in full before you move in.

Once you have paid your bond and signed your Bond Lodgement, it’s lodged with the Bond Centre.

Will I get my full bond back?

Your bond is refundable in full at the end of your tenancy, providing there are no claims for damages, unpaid rent or other costs. If claims have been made, you may only receive a portion of your bond back.

If the claims made are more than the value of your bond, it will not be refunded. Funds from bond payments can only be withheld if the tenant agrees, or by tribunal order.

Does wear and tear of the property get deducted from my bond?

Normal wear and tear on a rental property is not typically deducted from your bond. Wear and tear refers to the natural deterioration that occurs over time with everyday use, such as fading paint, carpet wear, and minor scuffs on walls. This is expected and cannot be held against a tenant. However, any damage that goes beyond this - such as large stains or holes in the walls- could result in deductions from your bond to cover repairs. It's a good practice to assess the condition of the property when you move in, and make sure it is accurately reflected in the ‘Property Condition Report’ you will receive at the start of the tenancy.

On what basis can my bond be taken?

Your bond can be taken on specific grounds, primarily related to covering the cost of damage you cause to the property that exceeds normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, or other breaches of your tenancy agreement. For instance, if there are significant damages like broken windows or permanent stains on carpeting, the landlord has the right to claim some or all of your bond to repair these damages. Your bond could also be used to cover outstanding water bills, lawns or gardens.

Additionally, if you leave the property owing rent or if you've caused problems that require professional cleaning beyond the standard level expected at the end of a tenancy, these costs can also be deducted from your bond. Again, funds can only be withheld if agreed by the tenant, or by order of the Tenancy Tribunal.

It's crucial to adhere to the terms set out in your Tenancy Agreement and maintain open communication with your property manager to avoid any disputes at the end of your tenancy.

What is a Property Condition Report?

A Property Condition Report outlines the state of a rental property at the beginning of a tenancy and will be included in your EVES Tenant Pack. This comprehensive report is completed by the property manager and provides a detailed description of the property’s current condition before a tenancy commences. This includes walls, flooring, fixtures, and any furnishings provided. It typically includes photographs and a checklist to ensure thoroughness. Both the landlord and the tenant should review and sign this report to agree on the property's condition.

This process helps protect both parties by providing a clear baseline against which the state of the property will be compared at the end of the tenancy, thus helping to resolve any disputes over damages or the return of the bond.

Who is responsible for maintaining the grounds?

Maintaining the grounds of a rental property is the responsibility of the tenant, unless otherwise agreed upon and confirmed in writing on your tenancy agreement. Generally, the landlord is responsible for ensuring the property's grounds are in a reasonable state at the start of the tenancy and for organising any large scale maintenance, such as overgrown trees.

Tenants are responsible for regular upkeep such as lawn mowing, weeding, and maintaining gardens.

Do I have to organise my internet, power and water bills?

Yes, you will need to organise your own service providers for power and internet at the commencement of your tenancy. All accounts for services should be in your name, with the exception of water rates. Water rates will be charged by your local council to the landlord of the property. The property manager will then pass on this charge to the tenants for their water usage.

Am I allowed pets?

Whether pets are allowed depends on the property and the landlord’s policy. Some of our properties are pet-friendly, while others may not permit pets due to the preference of the property owner.

If you have a pet, please let us know during your application process so we can find a suitable property that accommodates animal companions. Any permission to keep pets must be included in your tenancy agreement to ensure there are no misunderstandings.

Can I be evicted for having a pet without getting consent?

No pets are to be kept at a rental property without the written consent of the landlord. If you keep a pet on the property without consent, this constitutes a breach of your Tenancy Agreement and you will most likely be issued with a 14 day Notice to Remedy, which outlines the steps you must take and the timeframe you have to remedy the situation. If you do not resolve the situation in that time, your breach of tenancy will likely end up with the Tenancy Tribunal and could result in the termination of your Tenancy Agreement.

Will I be given notice if the rent increases?

Yes, tenants will always be notified in advance if there is going to be a rent increase. According to Tenancy Services, landlords must give at least 60 days' written notice before increasing the rent. This notice will detail the new amount and when it will take effect, allowing you ample time to adjust your budget accordingly. Rent increases can only occur once in a 12 month period.

What do I do if there are issues at the property?

If you encounter any issues or repairs needed at the property, you should report these immediately to your property manager by email or phone. They will take the necessary steps to obtain quotes and landlord approval before work commences to remedy the situation.

In the event urgent issues occur outside of office hours, you should phone your property manager directly to ensure the issue is dealt with as efficiently as possible.

How do I pay rent and when is it due?

Rent is typically due on a specific day of the week as outlined in your tenancy agreement. To make rent payments convenient and consistent, tenants are encouraged to set up automatic payments through their bank. This ensures that rent is paid on time and reduces the likelihood of missed payments. Rent must be paid in advance at all times.

What happens if I miss a rent payment?

If you are not going to be able to pay your rent on time for any reason, you must notify your property manager so that they can work with you to manage the arrears as soon as possible. If you do not provide advance notice to your property manager you will be in breach of your tenancy agreement. You may be supplied with a notice to remedy, or if you continue to miss payments an application could be submitted to the Tenancy Tribunal to terminate your tenancy.

Can I make changes to the property?

Any changes to the property, including minor alterations like painting or decorating, require prior approval from the landlord in writing. To request permission, please submit a detailed proposal to your property manager. The proposal should include what changes you intend to make and how they will be implemented.

Can I hang pictures on the walls?

Pictures can be hung on the wall, but this must be with approved supports only. Nails, screws and stick-on tapes can damage wall surfaces and shouldn’t be used. Check with your property manager about the safest way to hang pictures before doing any decorating.

What happens if I need to break my lease early?

If you are on a Fixed Term Tenancy, you must give your property manager at least 28 days notice of your intention to either vacate the property upon the end date of the tenancy, or of your intention to continue the tenancy for either a fixed or periodic term.

If unforeseen circumstances arise and you need to vacate the tenancy prior to the expiration of the lease agreement, you must contact your property manager as soon as possible. They will help you determine if arrangements can be made to help you exit your contract early. If this is deemed feasible and is approved by the property owner, you will be responsible for any costs associated with finding a replacement tenant, as well as any rent due until a replacement is found.

How often can inspections on the property be carried out?

Landlords and property managers have the right to inspect a property, to ensure it is being well maintained and to check for any necessary repairs. However, these inspections are regulated. Tenants must be given at least 48 hours' notice and no more than 14 days notice. The maximum frequency allowed for inspections is once every four weeks.

Our EVES Property Managers generally conduct inspections every 3-4 months which is the industry norm. We respect your privacy and strive to ensure these inspections are conducted with minimal disruption to you.

Do I need house and contents insurance?

At EVES we strongly recommend all tenants arrange contents insurance. Property owners should have house insurance on their investment property which will cover damages to the property in applicable circumstances, however, your possessions would not be covered.

How much notice will I be given if the owner no longer wants to rent their property?

Landlords can only end tenancies in certain situations, and the amount of notice they’re required to give depends on the reason for ending the tenancy. If the landlord is listing the property for sale, or if the property has sold and the new owners are getting vacant possession, the landlord must give the tenants 90 days notice to vacate. However, if the owner instead wants to move back into property, or use it as the main residence for a member of their family, they are only required to give 63 days notice.

These FAQs are designed to cover a wide range of topics, helping to ensure that all tenant concerns are addressed and that your experience as a tenant is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

For more information on rules and regulations relating to renting, visit the Tenancy Services website: https://www.tenancy.govt.nz

*The above information is intended as a guide only and tenants are encouraged to conduct their own due diligence in consultation with their property manager.