New Zealand landlord compliance checklist
New Zealand runs a single national regime under the Residential Tenancies Act, which makes the list shorter than Australia's but strictly enforced, with exemplary damages available at the Tenancy Tribunal for several of the items below.
Documents and money
The tenancy agreement is in writing and includes the required insulation and insurance statements.
The bond, capped at four weeks' rent, is lodged with Tenancy Services within 23 working days.
Letting fees are not charged to tenants; they have been unlawful since 2018.
A healthy homes compliance statement is included in the tenancy agreement.
Property condition
The property meets all five Healthy Homes standards: heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture and drainage, and draught stopping.
Working smoke alarms are installed within three metres of each bedroom doorway, long-life or hard-wired.
The property is lawful to occupy as a dwelling, including any granny flat or converted space.
During the tenancy
Rent increases are at least 12 months apart with the required written notice, and rent is quoted weekly per local convention.
Entry and inspection rules are followed, including the 48-hour notice for inspections and their frequency limit.
Termination follows the post-2021 rules, which removed no-cause terminations and prescribe specific grounds and notice periods.
Tenant personal information is collected and held in line with the Privacy Act guidance for landlords.
This is general information, not legal advice. Requirements change; confirm the current rules with Tenancy Services or a qualified adviser.
General information, not legal or financial advice.