If you're a self-managing landlord and you're planning on being overseas for more than 21 days, then you'll need to make sure that you comply with residential tenancy law by assigning someone to manage the property in your absence. They do not have to be a property professional or a property manager - it can be anyone of your choosing. It must, however, be someone you trust to make decisions and manage the tenancy in your absence.
To comply with the Residential Tenancies Act, you must do the following before you leave the country:
- Fill out this form to change the landlord's details with Tenancy Services and email it to: bond.refunds@tenancy.govt.nz
- Inform the tenant of the change of details. The easiest way to notify your tenant is to upload this form through the myRent app or email it to them directly. We would suggest that you explain to the tenant that this is a temporary change required by law, and that you will be the main contact when you return.
If you do not comply with this requirement, the tenant can give you a notice to remedy due to your absence, meaning the issue could end up at the tribunal.
Remember: when you get back in the country, you'll need to repeat the process to reappoint yourself as the property manager.
The information contained in this article is exclusively for promotional purposes. It does not in any way constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as the basis for any legal action or contractual dealings. The information is not, and does not attempt to be, a comprehensive account of the relevant law in New Zealand. If you require legal advice you should seek independent legal counsel. myRent.co.nz does not accept any liability that may arise from the use of this information.
