Renting Guide

Questions to ask before you rent a house in NZ

Go over these points before signing on the dotted line.

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Before signing a lease in New Zealand, it's crucial to ask key questions at the viewing. Confirm all move-in costs, including the bond and any rent in advance. Enquire about the pet policy and ensure the property meets Healthy Homes Standards for warmth and dryness.

Clarify which chattels (furnishings) are included and ask about previous tenant tenure, as high turnover can be a red flag. Also, establish who your main contact for maintenance will be and confirm the move-in date.

What you’ll learn:

Questions to ask at a rental viewing

1. How much is the rent, and move in costs?

Make sure you know how much, and when, rent is due.

2. Is it possible to have a pet?

3. Is the property insulated and energy efficient?

4. What chattels are included in the tenancy agreement?

Items belonging to the current tenants won't be included when you take over the property.

5. How long did the last tenants live here?

6. Who will be my main contact?

You need to know who you'll be dealing with if there are maintenance issues or problems with the property.

7. When is the move in date?

8. What’s the neighbourhood like?