Guide to Property Inspection in New Zealand

What is the purpose of property inspections in New Zealand?

Property inspections are essential for ensuring that rental properties meet the required standards for health, safety, rental price, and insurance compliance. They help landlords maintain the property, identify necessary repairs, and ensure adherence to the Healthy Homes Standards. For tenants, these inspections provide an opportunity to report any issues or damages.

What types of property inspections are there?

There are three main types of property inspections:

• Initial Inspection: Conducted before a tenant moves in to document the property's condition.
• Routine Inspections: Regular checks, often quarterly, to ensure the property is well cared for and to identify any maintenance issues.
• Final Inspection: Conducted when a tenancy ends, comparing the property's condition to the initial inspection report.

How should tenants and landlords prepare for a property inspection?

Tenants must be given at least 48 hours' notice before an inspection, but not more than 14 days in advance. Landlords should use a checklist to ensure all areas of the property are reviewed and document the inspection with photos and notes for future reference. If the tenant won't be present, it's a good idea to ask them to leave a note about any specific issues they want to be checked.

Are there specific times when inspections can be conducted?

Yes, inspections can occur between 8 am and 7 pm for rental properties, and between 8 am and 6 pm for boarding houses. The maximum frequency for inspections is once every four weeks.

What should landlords do during an inspection?

Landlords should be courteous, giving the right notice and choosing a suitable time for the tenant. It's advisable to take a camera and the initial property inspection report to compare the property's current condition with the start of the tenancy. If you take photos, try to avoid including the tenant’s personal belongings where possible.

How can property inspections help with insurance compliance?

ARegular property inspections are crucial for staying compliant with landlord-specific insurance policies. Many insurance providers require proof of regular inspections to validate claims, making timely inspections an essential part of risk management.

What if a landlord needs to reinspect the property?

If the tenant agrees to fix or clean something by a certain date, and the landlord needs to verify that it has been done, the landlord can reinspect the property by giving the tenant another 48 hours' notice.

How can property inspections improve safety for young children?

Both tenants and landlords can take steps during property inspections to make the rental safer for young children. This includes identifying and managing hazards like long or looped cords on blinds and curtains. Installing tension devices or retrofitting cords can be minor changes that significantly enhance safety.

How can Oxygen's Inspection Express platform assist with property inspections?

Oxygen's Inspection Express, available at iPropertyExpress.com, is a tool that helps landlords, property managers, and tenants conduct efficient and compliant property inspections. It streamlines the process by offering digital checklists, photo documentation, and easy access to inspection reports, ensuring a smooth and organized inspection process.

Where can I find more information on property inspections?

For more details on conducting property inspections and using the latest technology, visit iPropertyExpress.com. Additionally, the government’s tenancy services website provides comprehensive guidelines on property inspections and related legal requirements.