Being a landlord comes with a series of responsibilities that ensure the safety, health, and well-being of tenants as well as maintaining the quality of the property. Here's a summary of key responsibilities you need to be aware of:
Safety and Habitability:
Landlords must provide a safe and habitable property. This includes meeting all health and safety standards, ensuring the property has no hazards, and complying with building codes and standards related to electrical safety, fire safety, and structural integrity.
Maintenance and Repairs:
You are responsible for maintaining the property in good condition. This includes timely repairs to the building's structure, fixtures, plumbing, and electrical systems. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to meet these requirements.
Tenancy Agreements:
Landlords need to provide a clear and comprehensive tenancy agreement that complies with the Residential Tenancies Act. This agreement should outline all terms of the tenancy, including rent, duration, and any specific conditions.
Rent and Bond Handling:
It’s important to collect and handle rent and bond payments according to legal requirements. The bond must be lodged with Tenancy Services, and rent should be collected as agreed without exceeding the legal limits for advance payments.
Right of Entry and Privacy:
Landlords must respect the tenant's right to privacy, meaning entry to the property is only allowed under specific conditions such as emergencies, inspections, or agreed repairs, and appropriate notice should always be given.
Healthy Homes Standards:
You must ensure the property meets the Healthy Homes Standards, which cover heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture ingress, drainage, and draught stopping. Compliance with these standards is legally required for all rental homes .
Handling Disputes:
If disputes arise, landlords should first attempt to resolve them amicably. If resolution isn’t possible, the Tenancy Tribunal can assist in mediating and resolving issues.
Discrimination Laws:
Discriminatory practices in choosing tenants are illegal. You cannot discriminate based on race, gender, marital status, religious belief, or sexual orientation.
Landlords must stay informed about their rights and responsibilities to ensure they are compliant with New Zealand law and provide a safe, healthy environment for their tenants. For more detailed information and updates on landlord responsibilities, visit Tenancy Services here and the Citizens Advice Bureau.
