Property management legislation
New Zealand’ s rental landscape is evolving, with increasing regulation surrounding tenancy management and housing quality. These rules apply equally to professional property managers and private landlords, making it essential for all rental providers to stay informed.
Managing a tenancy today is heavily compliancedriven, with significant penalties for getting it wrong. While many landlords choose to self-manage, some do so without fully understanding their legal obligations or the risks involved.
Legislation is frequently updated, however, there are several well-established areas where landlords must already be meeting requirements, these include:
UNLAWFUL DWELLINGS
Not all rental spaces are created equal, and any property being lived in must meet minimum legal standards. Even if it wasn’ t originally consented for residential use the rules apply, and include garages or sleepouts converted into living spaces.
TENANCY TERMINATION RULES
Understanding how and when a tenancy can be ended is vital. New laws affect notice periods, grounds for termination, and what’ s required for both fixed-term and periodic tenancies.
HEALTHY HOMES STANDARDS( HHS)
All rental properties must meet minimum standards for heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture and drainage, and draught-stopping. Tenancy agreements must also include specific details confirming compliance.
RESIDENTIAL TENANCIES ACT AMENDMENTS( RTAA) LEGISLATION
Numerous changes have affected rules around rent increases, notice periods, minor alterations, assignment of tenancies, rental bidding, fibre broadband access and more.
INSURANCE DISCLOSURES
Landlords must disclose relevant insurance details in tenancy agreements, including policy coverage and claim limits.
SMOKE ALARMS
Working smoke alarms are mandatory in all rental properties, with both landlords and tenants carrying their own specific responsibilities.
METHAMPHETAMINE RISKS
Methamphetamine contamination remains a risk for landlords and tenants, with many factors at play including differing standards, and issues of liability and insurance.
HEALTH AND SAFETY DUTIES
Landlords must manage property hazards, ensure tradespeople are appropriately qualified, identify asbestos where relevant and comply with broader health and safety obligations.
All information presented in this guide is correct at the time of printing( July 2025). We recommend you speak to your Ray White property manager for any recent updates, as changes in our industry frequently occur.
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