Housing & renting
Who pays for repairs during a tenancy?
Landlords usually handle structural and healthy homes issues; tenants cover some damage they cause — Tenancy Services lists responsibilities.
Landlords must keep rentals in a reasonable state and meet Healthy Homes standards. Tenants must keep the place reasonably clean and tell the landlord about damage they cause. Fair wear and tear is not the same as careless damage.
Report problems in writing with photos. If urgent (no hot water, serious leak, unsafe steps), say so clearly. If repairs drag on, Tenancy Services explains escalation including the Tenancy Tribunal.
Do not withhold rent without understanding the risks — get advice from Tenancy Services or Community Law first. Not legal advice.
Calm next moves
- Email repair requests so you have a date stamp.
- Photo the issue when you first notice it.
- Ask about urgent repair timelines on tenancy.govt.nz
Official resources
Always confirm details on the official site — laws and processes can change.
Educational signposting only from the Resilience Programme. Not legal, financial, or medical advice. Updated 2026-07-10.