OLIVIA COWDY / Manager, Property Management

If you are nearing the end of your tenancy and you plan to vacate, several important steps need your attention. Whether you’re in a Periodic or Fixed-Term tenancy, understanding your obligations and handling the practical aspects of moving out can ensure a smooth transition and help you get your bond back without issues.

Giving Notice

There are two main types of residential tenancies: Periodic and Fixed-Term. You need to give notice to end any tenancy but the type of tenancy will dictate your options and the necessary steps for ending it. Your notice should include the date you wish to end the tenancy, your signature, and the property address.

Ending a Periodic Tenancy

Periodic Tenancies have no set end date and will not end until notice is issued and the notice period expires. You must provide at least 28 days’ written notice to your landlord to terminate the tenancy.

Ending a Fixed-Term Tenancy

Fixed-Term Tenancies have a specific end date and you cannot end it earlier unless you and your landlord agree. If it is between 90 and 28 days from the end of your tenancy, you can issue notice to the landlord of your intent not to renew. If it is less than 28 days to the end date, the tenancy will automatically transition to Periodic, at which point you can give 28 days’ notice.

Steps to Take at the End of Your Tenancy
  1. Get Your Payments Sorted
  • Your rent should be paid up to and including your last day of your tenancy. Double-check your rental payments to ensure there are no outstanding amounts and ensure the final payment aligns with your move-out date.
  • Once your final rent is paid, cancel your automatic payments to avoid overpaying your rent.
  • Contact your utility providers to advise them of your tenancy end date and arrange to transfer or close your accounts on the final date of your tenancy.
  • Cancel any direct debits or automatic payments for utilities.
  1. Leave the Property Clean and Tidy
  • You are required to leave the property reasonably clean and tidy (allowing for wear and tear).
  • Clean the property throughout. Don’t forget hidden spots like cupboards, extractor fans, heat pump filters and inside the oven.
  • Replace any lightbulbs that aren’t working.
  • Clean any interior windows that are accessible.
  • Ensure the outdoor space is tidy. Mow the lawns, weed the gardens and remove all garden waste.
  • Dispose of all rubbish and arrange a final rubbish collection if necessary
  1. Take Your Belongings, Leave What Belongs to the Landlord
  • Make sure you remove all personal items. Check all rooms, including storage spaces, garages, and sheds.
  • Refer to the ingoing condition report and chattels list and ensure all items provided by the landlord (such as furniture and appliances) are left at the property, clean and in good condition.
  1. Damage & Repairs
  • If you’ve caused any damage or made any alterations or additions (like installing shelving or curtain rods), return the property to the same condition it was in before the change was made or damage occurred, unless the landlord agrees otherwise.
  • If the carpets are stained or soiled during your tenancy, arrange a carpet cleaner and ensure you specifically ask for stain treatment.
  1. Return the Keys and Leave Your Details
  • Return all keys to the landlord, including any duplicates you may have made.
  • Provide your forwarding address to the landlord so they can contact you and forward any mail if necessary.
  1. Redirect or Cancel Utilities, Services, and Mail
  • Arrange for your mail to be redirected to your new address with New Zealand Post. This can prevent important documents from being lost or delayed.
  • On the final day of your tenancy, take photos of the final electricity reading, and send it to your utility provider. This will avoid being billed for usage after your departure.
  • If you have subscriptions or other services linked to the address, update your details with these providers.
  1. Final Inspection and Bond Refund
  • The final bond inspection will be completed once the tenancy has ended and you have vacated.
  • You will need to complete and sign a Bond Refund Form which will be sent to Tenancy Services to refund the bond accordingly.

Our guide will ensure the end of your tenancy is a smooth and stress-free process. By understanding your responsibilities, ensuring all payments are up to date, and leaving the property clean and damage free, you can leave your tenancy with confidence of a full bond refund.