Who is responsible for what for your Rental?
Understanding Responsibilities: Landlords vs. Tenants
Proper maintenance and care are key to keeping a rental property in good condition. However, the responsibilities of landlords and tenants differ based on legal requirements and practical considerations. Here’s a clear breakdown of who handles what in New Zealand rental properties.
Property Inspections
A property manager plays a crucial role in ensuring rental properties are regularly inspected for damage or wear and tear. They also have a network of reliable tradespeople to handle maintenance efficiently.
Fair Wear and Tear
Tenants are not responsible for normal wear and tear that occurs with regular use of the property or its chattels. However, they are accountable for any intentional damage to the property or items provided by the landlord.
Chimneys
- Landlord’s Responsibility:
Cleaning and maintaining the chimney annually to ensure safety and comply with insurance requirements. - Tenant’s Responsibility:
Cleaning ashes from the hearth.
Light Bulbs
Responsibility for light bulbs varies:
- Standard Bulbs: Often treated as consumables, the tenant may need to replace them. However, if damaged or removed intentionally, the tenant is responsible.
- Non-Standard Bulbs: Expensive or hard-to-replace bulbs are typically the landlord’s responsibility, as they may be classified as fair wear and tear.
Heaters and Ventilation Systems
- Landlord’s Responsibility:
Maintenance and servicing of heaters and ventilation systems, especially for Healthy Homes Standards compliance. - Tenant’s Responsibility:
Keeping filters clean and ensuring appliances are tidy and functional.
Changes to the Property
- Major Changes: Tenants need landlord consent to make renovations or add fixtures. Landlords cannot unreasonably withhold consent.
- Removing Fixtures: Tenants can remove their fixtures before the tenancy ends unless doing so causes irreparable damage. Fixtures left behind without prior agreements become the landlord’s property.
- Examples of Minor Changes:
- Replacing corded blinds with curtains
- Installing baby-proofing items
- Earthquake-proofing (e.g., securing bookshelves)
- Adding visual fire alarms or doorbells
Exterior Maintenance
- Landlord’s Responsibilities:
- House washing and gutter cleaning
- Maintaining trees, shrubs, and hedges
- Tenant’s Responsibilities:
- Mowing lawns and weeding gardens
- Cleaning windows (when accessible)
Discussing exterior responsibilities at the start of the tenancy and including them in the tenancy agreement can help prevent misunderstandings.
Final Thoughts
Clear communication and a shared understanding of responsibilities help maintain harmony between landlords and tenants. Whether you’re a landlord or tenant, being informed about your obligations can save time, money, and potential disputes.
For more information on tenancy responsibilities, visit: