Records help to minimise problems
LANDLORDS and their tenants won’t always see eye to eye, but it’s largely the same mistakes from both parties that cause misunderstandings.
Communication often breaks down between tenants and landlords over their interpretation of their responsibilities.
Owners can have a different interpretation of what good repair standards are, and rough repair jobs can be one of a landlord’s biggest mistakes.
In case of a difference of opinion, both tenants and landlords can use their property manager as an intermediary.
A property manager who has good knowledge of the legislation and the rights of both parties can assist significantly in reducing problems.
Tenants and landlords or property managers should keep records of conversations and condition reports so misunderstandings are minimised.
Tenants and landlords must adhere to the Residential Tenancies Act, which sets out the rights and responsibilities of those who enter into tenancy agreements.
Serious breaches of the act are dealt with by the Tenancy Tribunal, which can formalise what is agreed on at mediation or can make a ruling on an issue that can’t otherwise be resolved. The tribunal can issue an order that is legally binding for any parties involved in a tenancy dispute.
Government agency Tenancy Services is part of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and provides information renting, tenancy agreements, dispute resolution, and lays out the responsibilities of both tenants and landlords.