Signing a tenancy agreement after years of home ownership, or after a long time sharing a rental with a partner, can bring up a surprising number of questions. How much bond is normal? What happens to a bond that is in two names when one person moves out? Who fixes the leaking tap? This is a plain-language overview of how renting usually works in practice. It is not legal advice, and the details of any specific situation are best checked with Tenancy Services or an independent adviser.
What bond is and how much to expect
Bond is a sum paid at the start of a tenancy that sits as security against unpaid rent or damage beyond normal wear. In New Zealand it is lodged with a government bond service rather than kept by the landlord, and the maximum is generally four weeks’ rent.
On a $600-a-week rental, that means up to $2,400 in bond, on top of rent paid in advance. Budget for roughly five to six weeks of rent upfront when you move, plus moving costs and connection fees for power and internet. For someone setting up a household alone for the first time in years, that lump sum often comes as a shock, so it is worth planning ahead.
When you pay bond, you should receive a record showing it has been lodged. Keep that somewhere safe along with the tenancy agreement.
Bonds in two names after a separation
If you and a former partner rented together, the bond is usually lodged in both names. When one person moves out and the other stays, a few things typically need to happen:
- Tell the landlord or property manager in writing about the change.
- Agree between yourselves how the bond will be split, ideally in writing.
- Complete the paperwork for a change of tenant, so the departing person’s share can be refunded or transferred.
Where there is disagreement over money or who stays in the property, get independent advice early rather than letting it drift.
The everyday basics of a tenancy
Most tenancy problems come from misunderstandings rather than bad intentions. A few habits help keep things smooth:
- Do an ingoing inspection. Walk through with the property manager, note every mark, stain and chip, and take dated photos. This is your best protection when the bond is returned.
- Report repairs in writing. A text or email creates a record. Most maintenance on fixtures and structure is the landlord’s responsibility.
- Ask before changing anything. Hanging pictures, installing shelves or changing gardens usually needs permission.
- Keep the place reasonably clean and tidy. This is a standard expectation of tenants.
Warmth and power costs are worth thinking about at the viewing stage, not after the first winter bill arrives. The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority has practical guidance on heating, insulation and keeping power use down, which is useful when comparing rentals or working out a budget.
Getting your bond back at the end
When a tenancy ends, the condition of the property is compared with how it was at the start. Typical deductions arise from unpaid rent, damage beyond fair wear and tear, or cleaning that was not done. To give yourself the best chance of a full refund:
- Clean thoroughly, including inside the oven, window tracks and the shower.
- Mow lawns and tidy gardens if they were your responsibility.
- Remove all belongings and rubbish.
- Take a fresh set of dated photos on your final day.
If you have moved out of an owned home into a rental, the house you left may still need work before sale. A common question is whether bigger exterior jobs pay for themselves, and this look at whether a roof repaint is worth it before selling is a useful example of weighing cost against benefit.
Frequently asked questions
Can a landlord ask for more than four weeks’ bond? Generally no, four weeks’ rent is the usual maximum. If you are asked for more, check the current rules with Tenancy Services before paying.
What counts as fair wear and tear? Gradual deterioration from normal living, such as faded curtains or slightly worn carpet in walkways. Holes in walls, burns or pet damage usually fall outside it.
How long does it take to get bond back? When both parties agree on the refund, it is often processed within a few working days. Disputes take longer and may need to go through a formal process.