Rental Property

Finding a flat to rent in New Zealand can be a rewarding, if difficult, challenge! There are many ways to locate the perfect rental property, but there are a few things for first-time renters to bear in mind. Whether you're making the break from the family nest, newly settled in New Zealand or a student moving to a new city, here are a few pointers to guide you on your way to finding a great New Zealand rental property:

Know what you're looking for

Finding the right flat can be a daunting task, but it helps to know what you want in a flat, apartment or house. When searching for a rental property in New Zealand, narrow down your choice by deciding how many rooms you need in the flat, choosing a suburb that suits your requirements (eg. is close to your work or university) and knowing what you're looking for in a potential flatmate if you are going to be sharing the property.

Inspect the rental property before making a decision

Before moving into a flat, it's an excellent idea to have a thorough look around the property, ideally with the landlord, so that you can establish the condition of the property before moving in. Things to bear in mind when viewing a property are:

• How many bedrooms are there and what size are they?
• Are all appliances supplied? If so, are they in working order?
• What heating and insulation is there?
• Is there any existing damage?
• Are pets allowed?
• How secure is the property? Check for locks on windows and doors, an alarm system and secure gates onto the property.
• Is there a garage or off street parking (OSP)?
• How close is the property to public transport, schools and shops?

Compile a checklist and take it with you when looking at properties. Don't be afraid to ask questions.

Shop around for rental properties

Some useful places to look for a New Zealand flat or rental property are: the classifieds section of your local newspaper on Wednesdays and Saturdays; online sites such as Flatfinder and Trade Me; and your local New Zealand real estate agent, who can supply a list of rental properties currently available.

Keep up with the bills

Money matters when flatting, so it's important not to fall behind on rent and bill payments. Moving into a flat can incur a high initial cost – you should allow for the fact that you'll have to pay rent in advance (usually two weeks) as well as a bond payment (up to four weeks rent) before moving in. After these payments, it's important to get on track:

• Plan a personal budget – calculate regular income and regular expenses, then figure our what remaining money you have and incorporate other expenses into this equation.
• If you're flatting with others, it's easiest to have a shared flat account, into which a regular payment for rent and bills is paid, eg. $100 for rent + $20 for bills = $120 per week from each flatmate. Also, work out if you will be shopping for food together, as this could be included in the flat account payment. All rent and bill payments will be made from this account.
• Set up direct debit payments for: rent to be paid into the flat account; rent payments to the landlord or property manager; appliance hire costs; electricity and phone bills; and any other regular bill payments.

Know your (rental property) rights

Don't get confused by all the legal mumbo-jumbo, but do take a careful look at any agreement that you sign. If you're moving into an empty flat, you and the landlord will need to sign a tenancy agreement. You may not need to do this if you are moving into an existing flat, although some do require that all flatmates co-sign the lease. The tenancy agreement should outline your obligations (eg. paying rent on time, keeping the rental property clean and tidy, not having any pets living in the house) and your landlord's obligations (eg. repairs, regular maintenance, flat inspections). This is a legally binding document, so make sure you ask questions if you don't understand or have any concerns.

If you do not sign any agreement when moving into an existing flat, you are not under as much legal obligation to the landlord. This means that you are a flatmate, while those who have signed the lease and tenancy agreement are tenants. As a flatmate, you have fewer legal requirements, but you may also have fewer rights. You could be asked to leave with no notice or find yourself facing accusations about failed rent or bill payments.

For more information on the legal side of moving into a rental property, go to the Department of Building and Housing.

Make your house into a home

Once you've signed the tenancy agreement and moved into your new flat or rental property, you can focus on the task of making your house into a home. Use a little imagination to create an environment that reflects you! For those on a tight budget, try these places for discount furniture and appliances:

• New and secondhand furniture stores
• Online auction sites
• Appliance rental companies
• Department stores
• Your local council recycling centre

Shop around for bargains at New Zealand furniture and homeware stores.

Protect yourself with insurance

Remember too, it's a good idea to insure your possessions. Whether you are flatting with others or renting your own home, insurance is vital. Make sure you discuss property maintenance, damage to property and tenant liability with your landlord or property manager. Protect the things that matter to you with the help of a New Zealand insurance provider.

Looking for more information? Find New Zealand rental property in the NZS.com directory.

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Business images from Flickr: Sky Tower, New Zealand Flag and Wellington Buildings.