First approach on renting problems is to talk about them with the other party
Renting issues are some of the most common inquiries we are asked about at Citizens Advice Bureau.
We are regularly asked 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 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 you agreed to with your landlord.
You also need to keep a record of any changes to the agreement, such as adding or removing 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 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, you have 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 the matter out.
If the landlord still doesn’t act, the tenant can make an application to the Tenancy Tribunal. It costs $20.44 to apply and you can apply online or use a paper form.
Knowing your rights is always a good place to start. There is good information about your renting rights at cab.org.nz including our new comprehensive Aratohu Tenancy Advocacy section.
For free and confidential advice and information on this or any other matter ring Palmerston North Citizens Advice Bureau on 357 0647 or 0800 367 222 weekdays 9 am4.30pm. You can also email palmerstonnorth@cab.org.nz. Under the red traffic light setting our office is closed for face-to-face inquiries.