Know your rights: Tips and tricks for those who rent

Renting issues are some of the most common inquiries writes Sue Lusk from Citizens Advice Bureau.

Some of the regular problems that we see include questions about rent payments, bond refunds, disputes over damage and inspections, and problems with mouldy, damp housing.

Lots of renting problems occur because people don’t know their rights and responsibilities as tenants (or landlords).

There are a few key things to remember when you are renting.

One of the most important, is that it’s a legal requirement to have a written tenancy agreement.

The agreement is your go-to if you have any disputes.

It sets out the terms that you agreed to with your landlord. You also need to keep a record of any changes to the agreement, such as adding or removing any co-tenants.

If you have any problems, the best thing to do is raise them with your landlord as soon as possible.

It’s good to put any issues in writing, so that you have a record of this communication.

Talking to your landlord (or tenant) as soon as possible can help resolve a lot of difficulties, but if you can’t reach an agreement or your landlord doesn’t sort things out within a reasonable time period, you have some other options.

A polite follow-up discussion or email can sometimes result in action, but if this doesn’t work the tenant can send the landlord a 14-day notice to remedy.

This is a letter warning the landlord they have 14 days to fix the problem, or you may go to the Tenancy Tribunal to sort things out.

If the landlord still doesn’t act, the tenant can make an application to the Tenancy Tribunal.

It costs $20.44 to apply to the Tenancy Tribunal and you can apply online or using a paper form.

Knowing your rights is always a good place to start.

We have lots of great information about your renting rights our website cab.org.nz, and we are always here to help.

You can just pop in (1st floor, Coastlands) or call 04 298 4944 and we can help you work through your options.