Troubleshooting
Many common tenancy issues can be resolved quickly once the likely cause has been identified. The guidance below outlines frequent situations that can occur, what to check first, and when to reach out for support. If you’ re ever unsure, we’ re here to try and help.
POWER OUTAGE OR LOSS OF ELECTRICITY If the power goes out, first check whether neighbouring homes are also affected, as this usually indicates a wider network outage. If the issue is limited to your property, check the fuse box for a tripped switch and reset it if needed. Unplug any appliances that were recently in use, such as heaters or kitchen appliances, and then try resetting the switch again. If the power continues to trip or you feel unsure, get in touch and we will arrange the appropriate support.
HOT WATER ISSUES Hot water systems vary, and a few quick checks can help identify the cause of a problem. For electric systems, ensure the cylinder switch is on at the main switchboard. For gas systems, confirm the gas supply is active and the pilot light( if fitted) has not gone out. If these steps don’ t fix the issue, contact your property manager so servicing can be arranged.
If a power outage affects your hot water, check your electricity provider’ s website for updates and to see if ripple control may be in use.
BLOCKED DRAINS OR SLOW WATER FLOW Kitchen and bathroom drains can slow over time due to soap residue, food particles or hair. Pour boiling water down the drain in stages to help break down build-up, and use a plunger or gentle drain cleaner if needed. If the issue continues, especially across multiple drains, we will arrange a plumber to investigate further.
LOST KEYS OR LOCK ISSUES If you become locked out, a locksmith is usually the quickest solution, and lockout costs are generally the tenant’ s responsibility. If a lock becomes stiff or damaged, let us know so we can have it repaired.
PESTS AND INSECTS Occasional insects are common in many New Zealand homes, especially during warmer months. If you notice ongoing ants, cockroaches, rodents or wasps, contact us early so we can determine the likely cause and the best treatment approach. Responsibility for any extermination costs depends on the cause, and we’ ll work with you to determine the right approach.
NOISE AND NEIGHBOURS Shared living environments mean that some everyday noise is normal. If you feel comfortable, a polite conversation can sometimes resolve smaller issues. For persistent or late-night noise issues, contact your local council’ s noise control service as they are able to respond immediately. If the issue continues over time, talk to us for advice in working through next steps.
32 TENANT INFORMATION GUIDE