Taranaki Property Investors' Association

taranaki@nzpif.org.nz

News & Updates

Recent updates

15-09-2020

September newsletter from Tenancy Services

This newsletter has been written by Raymond Suen, Senior Engagement Advisor.

Updated moisture ingress and drainage guidance document

Rental properties must have efficient drainage for the removal of storm water, surface water and ground water. Rental properties with an enclosed sub-floor space must have a ground moisture barrier. All private rentals must comply with the Healthy Home Standards within 90 days of any new or renewed tenancy on or after 1 July 2021, with all private rentals complying by 1 July 2024.

Read the updated guidance document for information about gutters, airflow and enclosed sub-floor perimeter walls. This guidance document also clarifies the requirements for a ground moisture barrier where it is not reasonably practicable to install a polythene sheet. Visit Tenancy Services website for details. tenancy.govt.nz/healthy-homes/moisture-and-drainage-standard

Keep the bond records up to date to avoid refund delays

It is important for landlords, property managers and tenants to keep the bond record up to date. This will avoid problems or delays with the bond refund at the end of a tenancy. The bond record must be updated within 10 working days when either the landlord, property manager or tenant of a property changes, or when the address for service changes.

At the end of a tenancy, the landlord (or property manager) and tenant should inspect the property together, agree on settling any outstanding costs related to the tenancy, then complete and sign the bond forms. Make sure you agree with all the information written on the bond refund form, including the refund amount, before signing. Visit Tenancy Services website for details. tenancy.govt.nz/rent-bond-and-bills/bond/preventing-problems-with-bonds

Online tool for working out if you can give notice to end tenancy

We have an easy to use online tool to help landlords and tenants find out whether you can give notice to end your tenancy, and how much notice you need to give under the Residential Tenancies Act 1986. Try the online tool on the Tenancy Services website. tenancy.govt.nz/ending-a-tenancy/giving-notice-to-end-tenancy

Note that the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2020 is now in force, this includes the new termination grounds for a periodic tenancy and the changes to notice periods. These law changes will take effect from 11 February 2021, further details on our website. tenancy.govt.nz/about-tenancy-services/news/residential-tenancies-amendment-act-2020-now-in-force

Translated information for new tenants

We have made it easier to find information on the rights and responsibilities of a tenancy, and what to do when starting a tenancy. The resources are available in multiple languages and can be useful for your conversations with new tenants. Click on the drop-down to download a translated version. tenancy.govt.nz/starting-a-tenancy/new-to-tenancy/information-for-new-tenants

Raymond.Suen@mbie.govt.nz

 

 

Tags: tenancy services