What should I check in the rental agreement and bond before signing for a rental in New Zealand?
Before signing a rental in New Zealand, check the weekly rent, bond amount, utilities, contract duration, notice period, furnishings, maintenance duties, shared space rules and payment terms. Keep proof of every payment and never send money before confirming the rental is genuine.
Read the agreement carefully before signing, because small details can change your real housing cost. Check the rent, bond, bills and rules, and ask the landlord to explain anything you do not understand.
Bond checks before you sign
| Bond point | What to do |
|---|---|
| Amount | Check the bond amount before signing |
| Payment | Ask how and when it must be paid |
| Proof | Keep proof of your payment |
| Return | Understand when the bond can be returned |
| Safety | Do not send money before checking the rental is genuine |
Agreement checklist
- Weekly rent and how often you pay it
- Whether utilities and other bills are included
- Contract duration and notice period
- Furnishings included and maintenance responsibilities
- Rules for shared spaces and payment terms
- Any extra fees
My Advice
Be careful if a landlord asks you to pay quickly without showing proper rental details. Keep a saved copy of your agreement and address, since you may need it for university records, a bank account or insurance. If you do not understand any clause, do not sign until it is explained.
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