In the world of renting, your rights as a tenant matter. Here at Angel Property Managers, we understand this and aim to help guide Kiwis through the intricacies of tenant rights and landlord responsibilities.
Quiet Enjoyment
As a tenant, you have the right to ‘quiet enjoyment’ of the property you rent. This means, you are able to enjoy living in the house without being disturbed.
- Tenants have an obligation to respect their neighbour’s or any other tenant’s quiet enjoyment.
- Landlords must respect their tenants’ peace, comfort and privacy.
- Landlords must provide proper notice before inspections or doing repairs and maintenance.
A Warm, Healthy Home
As a tenant, you also have the right to a warm and healthy home. The Healthy Homes Standard outlines landlord responsibilities surrounding heating, insulation, ventilation, draught-stopping, moisture and drainage.
- Landlords must provide one or more fixed heaters that can directly heat the main living room and meet a required minimum heating capacity.
- Underfloor and ceiling insulation must meet the 2008 Building Code or have a minimum thickness of 120mm and be in a reasonable condition.
- There must be mechanical ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms that vents extracted air outside.
- Landlords must block any unreasonable gaps and holes in walls, ceilings, windows, floors and doors that cause noticeable draughts.
- There must be efficient drainage, guttering and downpipes.
Did you know?
Although renter’s rights have vastly improved over the past few years, it is important to always stay informed and up to date on rules and regulations. Keep the following points in mind to always safeguard your rights:
- Landlords may only increase rent once every 12 months and must provide at least 60 days written notice.
- Landlords must give you 63 days notice if a member of their family wants to live at the property.
- Landlords must provide you with 90 days notice if:
- The property is being put on the market
- The property has been sold, and the new owner doesn’t want tenants.
- There are extensive alterations, or the house is being demolished.
- Tenants can only end a Fixed-term Tenancy with written notice 28 days prior to rhe end of their Fixed Term Tenancy dat.
- It is important to remember that although landlords have obligations, so do tenants. Tenants must:
- Pay rent on time every week
- Pay their water charges within 14 days of the receipt
- Keep the property clean and tidy
- Advise the landlord/property owner of any maintenance issues as soon as possible.
- Tenants are NOT required to have carpets professionally cleaned.
- Property Managers can help manage disputes between tenants and property owners.
Flatmates, not Tenants?
If someone else signs the tenancy agreement but lets you share the flat, you are a flatmate. The Residential Tenancies Act will not cover you in a flatmate situation. But, there are steps you can take to help protect yourself.
- Flatmate rights depend on the agreement they have with the tenant.
- Use the flat-sharing agreement template to ensure both parties clearly understand expectations.
Knowledge is Power
Your tenant rights form the foundation of your renting experience. With Angel Property Managers, you’re equipped with the knowledge needed to navigate this landscape. Your rights are your shield, and we’re here to ensure they’re upheld throughout your renting journey.