Tenant Guidance

Guide to Choosing the Right Rental Property

At Beehive Property Management, we understand that finding the right rental property for you and your family is a big decision. To help you make an informed choice, we’ve put together this guide covering important considerations for prospective tenants.

Ensure the Property Suits You

It is your responsibility to ensure that the property you are applying for meets your needs. Once your application is approved and a tenancy agreement is signed, you will have binding obligations under the agreement. Changing your mind after signing is not an option, so it’s crucial to select the right property upfront.

Your tenancy will be governed by the terms outlined in the Tenancy Agreement and the Residential Tenancies Act. To assist you, here are some key points to consider when selecting your next home.

Choosing the Right Location

How do I choose the right location?

Start by narrowing down your preferred areas. Consider proximity to schools, public transport, shops, and your place of work. This will save you time and ensure the location aligns with your lifestyle.

What should I expect from a suburb?

Take note of the neighborhood and its general atmosphere. The condition of nearby properties and vehicles can give you an idea of the community. Explore local amenities, shops, and services to ensure the area meets your needs.

How do I research a suburb?

Use tools like Google Maps to get a visual understanding of the area before visiting. Satellite images can help you evaluate the surroundings.

Check school zones and local enrollment information if you have children. Community newsletters and local newspapers (e.g., Stuff.co.nz) are also excellent resources for learning about the neighborhood. Finally, compare rental properties on platforms like TradeMe or Realestate.co.nz.

Rental Costs

What rent will I pay?

Rental costs depend largely on location, amenities, and market conditions. Properties closer to city centers or high-performing schools typically have higher rents.

Use the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment’s Tenancy Services website to review the latest rental market data. This tool provides insights into average, lower, and upper rental price brackets for different property types.

Security and Maintenance

What about security?

Most properties are rented ‘as is,’ meaning property owners are not always required to upgrade security. Before moving in, check for locks on doors and windows to ensure you feel safe.

Who takes care of maintenance?

Clarify maintenance responsibilities before signing your tenancy agreement. For instance, find out who is responsible for lawns, gardens, driveways, or any shared areas. If there is a swimming pool, ask whether you or the owner will handle its upkeep.

Living Conditions

What about insulation?

Ensure the property is warm, dry, and well-ventilated. Look for signs of moisture, such as discoloration on floors, paintwork, or curtains, which may indicate dampness. While minor moisture is common in rentals, it’s important to choose a home that’s comfortable year-round.

What are the noise rules?

If the property is near a main road, in the CBD, or close to a construction site, some noise is expected. Properties in these areas may have features like double glazing to minimize noise. Remember, external noise is generally beyond the owner’s control, so evaluate this during your property inspection.

Understanding Tenancy Basics

What is a tenancy?

A tenancy begins once your application is approved, and a tenancy agreement is signed. This agreement is a legal document that outlines the obligations of both parties. Be sure to read and understand all terms before signing.

What is a tenancy term?

The tenancy term can either be fixed (e.g., 6 or 12 months) or periodic (month-to-month). Discuss and agree on the tenancy term with the landlord or property manager.

Do I need my agreement in writing?

Yes, all tenancy agreements should be in writing. The agreement should detail obligations such as bond payments, rent due dates, and other key terms.

What is a bond?

A bond is typically equal to four weeks’ rent and is held by Tenancy Services. The landlord must lodge your bond with Tenancy Services within 21 working days of receiving it. You should receive confirmation of the lodgment within five weeks of the tenancy start date.

Additional Resources

If you’d like more information about your rights and responsibilities as a tenant, we recommend visiting the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment’s Tenancy Services website. It’s an excellent resource for tenants and landlords alike.

At Beehive Property Management, we’re here to help you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need assistance during your rental journey, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.