Keeping a rental property clean and free of excessive rubbish is a shared responsibility between landlords and tenants. But what happens when large items—such as old cars, caravans, boats, or furniture—start piling up? Or when hoarding becomes an issue? Understanding the legal requirements around rubbish removal can help avoid disputes and keep your property in great shape.
Tenant Responsibilities
As a tenant, keeping your home tidy isn’t just about appearances—it’s a key part of your rental agreement. This means:
- Using the right rubbish and recycling systems.
- Disposing of bulky items like furniture and appliances responsibly.
- Making sure rubbish doesn’t pile up and become a health or safety issue.
If things get out of hand, it can lead to warnings, fines, or even tenancy breaches, so it’s best to stay on top of it.
Landlord Responsibilities
Landlords must ensure the property is clean and habitable at the start of a tenancy. If a tenant moves out and leaves behind unwanted items, the landlord may need to:
- Arrange for removal, which could be deducted from the bond (if approved by the Tenancy Tribunal).
- Seek compensation if there’s excessive rubbish or property damage.
- Follow proper legal steps to remove abandoned vehicles or boats.
What Happens With Abandoned Vehicles or Large Items?
If a tenant leaves behind an unregistered car, boat, or other large items, landlords can’t just tow or sell them. There are legal steps to follow:
- Reporting abandoned vehicles to the police or local council.
- Giving tenants notice to remove them.
- Applying to the Tenancy Tribunal for disposal approval.
Skipping these steps could lead to legal headaches, so it’s best to do it right from the start.
Dealing With Hoarding and Rubbish Buildup
Hoarding isn’t just clutter—it can pose fire hazards, attract pests, and create structural damage. If a tenant’s hoarding becomes a serious issue:
- The landlord can issue a 14-day notice under the Residential Tenancies Act.
- If the problem persists, they may need to escalate it to the Tenancy Tribunal.
A proactive approach and clear communication can help prevent these situations from getting out of hand.
Council Services and Waste Disposal
Local councils can help with bulk waste collection and recycling options. It’s worth checking:
- When and how large items can be collected.
- Any fines for illegal dumping.
- Drop-off points for unwanted goods.
A quick call to the council can save time and stress when it comes to removing rubbish properly.
How A Property Manager Can Help
Dealing with rubbish issues, abandoned vehicles, and hoarding can be a real headache. That’s where we come in. Here at Angel Property Managers, we can:
- Keep communication open with tenants to ensure proper rubbish disposal.
- Arrange waste removal services when needed.
- Handle Tenancy Tribunal applications if legal action is required.
- Conduct property inspections to catch potential issues early.
- Work with local councils to arrange proper waste management solutions.
With our Angels managing the process, you can rest easy knowing your property is well cared for and compliant with all regulations.
Keeping a rental property clean and rubbish-free is a shared effort. Knowing the legal requirements, staying proactive, and seeking expert guidance can make the process much easier. If you ever need a helping hand, we are here to help—so you don’t have to deal with the stress alone. Get in touch today!