Flatting 101: Everything you need to know before renting your first home in Wellington

Finding your first flat

1. Where should you start when looking for your first rental, and what should you consider before applying? 

A great place to start is the Comprendé website, Trade Me Property or realestate.co.nz, where you’ll find a wide range of rental properties. Use the filters to narrow your search based on your budget, preferred location, number of bedrooms, parking, pets, and any other must-haves. This will save you time and help you find properties that suit your needs. 

When you find a property you like, book a viewing. Photos can only tell you so much, so it’s important to see the property in person and make sure it meets your expectations! 

If the property ticks all the boxes, submit your application as soon as possible. Wellington’s rental market can move quickly, especially at the start of the university year, so being organised can make all the difference. 

Top tip: Don’t compare flats on rent alone. Consider the total cost, including power, internet and other household bills. 

2. How can you tell if a rental property is worth applying for, and what should you check before booking a viewing? 

A good rental property should include clear photos, a detailed description, the weekly rent, and key information like the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, parking and any special features. It should also tell you when the property is available and how to book a viewing. 

Before booking, check that the property suits your needs. Think about the location, whether it’s close to university or public transport, and if it has everything you’re looking for. 

Once you’re at the viewing, don’t be afraid to ask questions. You can ask about heating, internet, parking, pets, or anything else that’s important to you. It’s much easier to ask before you apply than after you’ve moved in. 

Top tip: If something isn’t mentioned in the listing, ask. It’s always better to have all the information before deciding if a property is right for you. 

3. What should you look for during a rental viewing to make sure the property is warm, dry, safe, and well maintained? 

A viewing is your chance to see what the property is really like, so take your time. Check that it feels clean, well looked after, and matches the photos in the listing. 

Look for signs the home will be warm and comfortable. Is there a heat pump or another form of fixed heating? Do the windows open and close properly? Is there any sign of damp, mould, or water damage? 

It’s also worth checking that everything appears to be in good working order. Test taps, flush the toilet if appropriate, look at the condition of carpets and walls, and check that doors and windows lock properly. 

All rental properties in New Zealand must meet the Healthy Homes Standards. These set minimum requirements for heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture drainage and draught stopping to help keep homes warmer and drier. You can request to see the HHS statement as any time.

Top tip: If you’re unsure about anything at the viewing, ask. They can explain the property’s features and answer any questions before you apply. 

Getting your application ready 

4. What do I need to do to get application ready? 

When you find a property you love, it’s important to submit your application as soon as possible. Rental properties can receive multiple applications, so being organised and providing everything requested can help speed up the process. 

Make sure every person applying completes their part of the application accurately and honestly. Missing information or delays in providing documents can slow things down. 

Depending on the property manager or landlord, you may be asked to provide: 

• Photo identification  

• Proof of your ability to pay rent (for example, recent payslips or an employment agreement) 

• Three months of bank statements  

• References from previous landlords, employers or personal referees  

• Permission for a credit check  

• Permission for a background check  

• A Guarantor  

These checks help property managers verify your identity, rental history and ability to meet your tenancy obligations. They’re a normal part of the application process and help ensure the property is the right fit for both you and the landlord. 

If you’ve never rented before, don’t worry. Let the property manager know and provide strong personal or work references instead. 

Top tip: Have your documents saved digitally before you start applying. Being able to submit a complete application quickly can make all the difference. 

Quick question: Why do property managers ask for proof of your ability to pay rent? 

Property managers ask for proof of your ability to pay rent so they can make sure the rent is affordable for you and won’t put you into financial hardship. Documents such as recent payslips or an employment agreement help show that you’ll be able to keep up with your rent payments throughout the tenancy. 

If the rent appears to make up a large proportion of your income (for example, around 50% or more), the property manager may ask a few extra questions to make sure the property is the right fit financially. This isn’t about catching people out, it’s about helping ensure the tenancy is sustainable for everyone. 

Quick question: Why do I need referees? 

Referees help property managers understand what you’ll be like as a tenant. If you’ve rented before, a previous landlord or property manager is ideal. If this is your first rental, an employer, tutor, coach or another trusted adult may be able to provide a reference. 

Quick question: Why do I need a credit or background check? 

Credit and background checks are commonly used to confirm your identity and help property managers assess an application. They may include checking your credit history, tenancy history or publicly available records. Having a credit check doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be declined if your credit isn’t perfect – property managers usually consider your application as a whole. 

Quick question: What is a guarantor? 

A guarantor is someone who agrees to support your tenancy if you’re unable to meet your obligations, such as paying rent. Property managers may ask for a guarantor if you have little or no rental history, are studying, are being financially supported by your parents or whānau, or if your income is lower than what’s typically required for the property. 

In most cases, if a guarantor is needed, each applicant who requires one will need to provide their own guarantor. 

Getting ready to rent 

5. What should you check before signing a tenancy agreement? 

Before you sign, take the time to read the tenancy agreement carefully. Make sure you understand important details like the rent amount, when it’s due, the length of the tenancy, and any special conditions. 

If there’s anything you’re unsure about, ask questions before signing. A property manager will be happy to explain anything you don’t understand. 

At Comprendé, we complete a detailed property inspection before your tenancy begins. When you move in, you’ll have seven days to review the report and let us know if there’s anything we’ve missed or you’d like added. This covers you for any damage caused prior to your tenancy.  

Top tip: Never feel pressured to sign straight away. Read everything carefully and make sure you’re happy with the agreement before committing. 

6. What costs should first-time renters budget for before and after moving in? 

Before you move in, you’ll need to pay a bond and pet bond (if applicable), prior to collecting keys. The amount will be explained before you sign your tenancy agreement. Pet bond is up to 2 weeks rent per household, not per pet.

Once you’ve moved in, rent is only one part of your budget. You’ll also need to plan for everyday costs like power, internet, groceries and any shared household items such as cleaning products or toilet paper. If you’re living with others, it’s a good idea to agree on how these costs will be split before you move in. 

Setting a weekly budget can help you stay on top of your expenses and avoid any surprises. 

Top tip: Don’t forget the one-off costs of moving, like buying kitchen essentials, bedding or furniture if your flat isn’t fully furnished. 

Quick question: What is a bond? 

A bond is money paid at the start of your tenancy as security against unpaid rent or damage beyond normal wear and tear. It isn’t paid to the landlord or property manager. Instead, it’s lodged with Tenancy Services and held until your tenancy ends. If everything is in order when you move out, your bond is refunded back to you. 

Quick question: How do I get my bond back? 

If the property is left clean, tidy, and in the same condition as when you moved in, allowing for fair wear and tear, you’ll usually receive your full bond back. 

Once you’ve moved out, returned all the keys, and your final inspection has been completed, your property manager or landlord will confirm if there’s anything that needs to be deducted from the bond. If everyone agrees, a bond refund form is submitted to Tenancy Services, who will process the refund and pay it into your nominated bank account. 

Once Tenancy Services receives the completed bond refund form, refunds can take up to 14 business days to be processed. In some cases, it may take longer depending on processing times or if additional information is required. 

If there’s a disagreement about the bond, such as unpaid rent or damage beyond normal wear and tear, the bond won’t be refunded until the issue is resolved. If an agreement can’t be reached, the matter can be referred to the Tenancy Tribunal for a decision. 

Top tip: Leave the property clean, remove all your belongings, return every key, and attend the final inspection if you can. Doing these simple things will help make getting your bond back as smooth as possible. 

7. What are tenants responsible for, and what is the property manager or landlord responsible for? 

As a tenant, you’re responsible for paying your rent on time, keeping the property reasonably clean and tidy, and letting your property manager know if something needs repairing. Looking after the property and following the terms of your tenancy agreement will help your tenancy run smoothly. 

Your property manager or landlord is responsible for making sure the property is safe, well maintained, and meets the Healthy Homes Standards. They’re also responsible for arranging repairs when needed and respecting your right to quiet enjoyment of the property. 

Good communication goes a long way. If something isn’t working or you have a question, let your property manager know as soon as possible so it can be sorted before it becomes a bigger issue. 

Top tip: Don’t ignore maintenance issues. Reporting a small leak or fault early can often prevent a much bigger problem later. 

Living in your rental 

8. What are the key rights every tenant should know before renting? 

As a tenant, you have the right to live in a property that’s safe, well maintained, and meets the Healthy Homes Standards. You also have the right to privacy, which means your property manager or landlord can’t enter the property without giving the correct notice, unless it’s an emergency.  

Some important timeframes to know are: 

• Routine inspections: At least 48 hours’ notice must be given, and inspections can’t happen more than once every four weeks.  

• Repairs or maintenance: At least 24 hours’ notice is required before entering the property to carry out repairs or maintenance.  

• Rent increases: You must receive at least 60 days’ written notice, and your rent can’t be increased more than once every 12 months.  

If something needs repairing, let your property manager know as soon as possible. Most issues can be resolved quickly with good communication. 

If you’re ever unsure about your rights or responsibilities, your property manager is a great place to start. You can also find helpful information on the Tenancy Services website. 

Top tip: Keep a record of important tenancy-related emails and messages during your tenancy. It’s always handy to have a record if you need to refer to something later. 

9. What habits make someone a great tenant? 

Being a great tenant is simple. Pay your rent on time, look after the property, and communicate with your property manager if you have any questions or maintenance issues. 

Treat the property as if it were your own. Keep it clean and tidy, report any damage as soon as you notice it, and follow the terms of your tenancy agreement. Small issues are often much easier to fix if they’re reported early. 

It’s also important to be considerate of your neighbours and flatmates. Keeping noise to a reasonable level, especially late at night, and respecting shared spaces will help everyone enjoy living there. 

Building a positive relationship with your property manager can also make your tenancy easier. Good communication and mutual respect go a long way. 

Top tip: If you’re unsure whether you can do something, like hang pictures, paint a wall or get a pet, ask your property manager first. It’s always better to check before making changes to the property. 

10. What happens if you need to leave a fixed-term tenancy before it ends? 

Sometimes plans change, and that’s okay. If you need to leave a fixed-term tenancy early, the first step is to contact your property manager as soon as possible. The sooner you let them know, the more options there may be. 

In most cases, you can’t simply give notice and end a fixed-term tenancy early. Instead, you and your landlord need to agree in writing to end the tenancy, or you may be able to transfer (assign) the tenancy to someone else with the landlord’s written consent. Landlords must consider requests to assign a tenancy and can’t unreasonably refuse them.  

If your tenancy ends early by agreement, you may be asked to cover the landlord’s actual and reasonable costs, such as advertising for a new tenant. These aren’t fixed “break fees” and should reflect the genuine costs involved.  

In some situations, such as severe hardship, you can apply to the Tenancy Tribunal to end a fixed-term tenancy early.  

Top tip: Don’t move out without talking to your property manager first. Every situation is different, and having a conversation early can help you understand your options and avoid unnecessary costs. 

Flatting 101 

11. What conversations should you have with your flatmates before moving in together? 

Before you move in, it’s a good idea to have an honest conversation about how you’ll live together. Setting expectations early can help avoid problems later on. 

Talk about how you’ll split rent, bills, groceries and household supplies, who will do which chores, and how you’ll handle things like guests, parties and noise. It’s also worth agreeing on how you’ll communicate if any issues come up. 

You’ll also need to decide who will be the head tenant and main point of contact for your flat. While all tenants named on the tenancy agreement will receive important communications about inspections, maintenance and other tenancy matters, the head tenant will usually be the first person the property manager contacts if they need to speak with someone directly. 

Even if one person manages the payments and communication, everyone named on the tenancy agreement is jointly responsible for meeting the terms of the tenancy. That means every tenant is responsible for paying the rent, looking after the property and meeting the obligations of the tenancy agreement. 

Top tip: Set up a flat group chat and agree on how you’ll split bills and share important updates. Good communication from the start can save a lot of stress later on. 

Quick question: What is a head tenant? 

A head tenant is the main point of contact between the flat and the property manager or landlord. They will usually: 

• Communicate with the property manager or landlord on behalf of the flat.  

• Organise rent payments from one bank account if applicable.  

• Be the main phone contact for the property manager if needed. All tenants named on the tenancy agreement will still receive important tenancy communications directly. 

• Help coordinate maintenance requests and access to the property.  

Being the head tenant doesn’t make you responsible for making sure everyone follows the tenancy agreement. Your role is simply to act as the main point of contact between the flat and the property manager, helping keep communication clear and organised. While the head tenant is usually the first person contacted if the property manager needs to speak with someone directly, all tenants named on the tenancy agreement will still receive important tenancy communications. Every tenant remains equally responsible for meeting the obligations of the tenancy agreement. 

Top tip: Choose someone who is organised, reliable and comfortable communicating with both the flat and the property manager. 

Top tip: Consider setting up a dedicated flat bank account that everyone can access. Having one account for rent and shared household expenses makes it easier to keep track of payments, stay organised, and ensure everyone can see what’s been paid. 

Enjoy your flatting experience! 

And, if you have any questions related to renting in Wellington, we’d love to help. Give us a call on (04) 384 2141 or send us an email at hello@comprende.co.nz 

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