2025 Tenancy Law Update: What Landlords Need to Know
Keeping up with tenancy law changes can be challenging, and missing a detail might result in unnecessary stress or financial penalties. That’s where Beehive Property Management comes in. Our experienced Hamilton-based team stays on top of every legal update so you don’t have to — ensuring your rental remains compliant and stress-free.
So what’s changing in 2025, and how might it affect your property? Here’s a summary of what landlords need to know:
Healthy Homes Final Compliance Deadline
By 1 July 2025, all private rental properties must comply with the Healthy Homes Standards. These standards aim to ensure homes are warmer, drier, and healthier for tenants. We’re already helping many landlords get this sorted well in advance, avoiding the last-minute scramble or potential fines. If your property hasn’t been assessed yet, now’s the time.
Online Bond Lodgement Required
Starting 17 December 2024, all tenancy bonds must be lodged online. This update means no more paper forms, printing, or chasing signatures. Beehive will manage the process entirely, making sure everything is submitted accurately and on time.
Changes to Ending Periodic Tenancies
From 30 January 2025, landlords can end a periodic tenancy with 90 days’ notice — no reason required. Tenants will only need to give 21 days’ notice (reduced from 28 days).
A 42-day notice period will apply again in the following cases:
You or a family member intend to move into the property
The property has been sold and the new owner needs it vacant
The property is needed for an employee (this must be stated in the tenancy agreement)
If you're unsure how to manage this process correctly, we’re here to assist.
Fixed-Term Tenancy Updates
Also taking effect 30 January 2025, fixed-term tenancies will automatically convert to periodic tenancies unless the landlord or tenant gives notice between 90 and 21 days before the end date. There’s no longer a need to provide a reason for not renewing.
Pet Requests and Pet Bonds
This change is still awaiting a confirmed start date, but it will make it easier for tenants to have pets — while also providing landlords with added protections:
Tenants will have the right to request permission for a pet
Landlords can decline the request, but only on reasonable grounds (an official list will be provided)
If approved, landlords can charge a pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent, in addition to the standard bond
Beehive will guide you through the process and help assess each request carefully. Our tenant screening procedures remain robust and reliable.
Technical and Administrative Tweaks (from 20 March 2025)
Several smaller updates will also come into effect:
Landlords can officially ban smoking inside the property
The Tenancy Tribunal can now decide on some matters based on written submissions (no in-person hearing needed)
Electronic communication is allowed, provided a physical address is still supplied
We’ll Handle the Details
Legislative changes can feel overwhelming — but that’s what we’re here for. Beehive Property Management takes care of the legal details so you can focus on growing your investment.
Our team will:
Lodge bonds and update tenancy agreements for you
Handle terminations and renewals with the correct notice periods
Manage pet-related requests and collect pet bonds
Keep your documentation processes compliant, simple, and stress-free
Tenancy laws may keep changing — but Beehive is always one step ahead. Hand us the keys, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Want to stay informed? Follow our blog for the latest in property management news and insights.
Still have questions? Contact the Beehive Property Management team today.
Helpful Links:
https://www.hud.govt.nz/our-work/residential-tenancies-amendment-act-2024
https://www.tenancy.govt.nz/about-tenancy-services/news/?tag=20
2025 年租赁法变更指南：Beehive 为房东解读重点新规
应对房屋租赁法律的变化可能让人感到棘手，一不小心就可能带来不必要的压力和费用。这正是 Beehive Property Management 所擅长的地方。我们经验丰富的汉密尔顿本地物业管理团队，会及时了解新规并帮您解读落实，让您无忧守法、稳健收租。
那么 2025 年都有哪些变更？这些新规将如何影响您的出租房？下面我们为您逐条解析：
Healthy Homes 最终截止日期临近
所有私人出租房屋必须在 2025 年 7 月 1 日前 满足 Healthy Homes 标准。这些标准旨在确保房屋更加温暖、干燥和健康。我们已经在协助大量房东提前完成合规准备，避免临近截止期的慌乱和罚款。如果您的房屋还未检查，请尽早行动。
押金必须在线提交
自 2024 年 12 月 17 日 起，所有租赁押金都必须通过在线系统提交。这意味着流程更快、更高效、无需纸质表格和反复签字。Beehive 会全程代为操作，确保押金及时、准确提交。
Periodic 租约结束方式调整
从 2025 年 1 月 30 日 起，房东可以在无需提供理由的前提下，以 90 天通知期 结束 periodic（不定期）租约。租客方面，通知期则从 28 天缩短为 21 天。
重新启用 42 天通知期 的情况包括：
房东或家庭成员计划入住
房屋出售，且买家要求空屋
房屋需用于员工住宿（租约中须提前注明）
如果您对终止租约的方式不确定，我们可以为您提供指导。
Fixed-term（固定租期）变化
同样从 2025 年 1 月 30 日 起，固定期限租约结束后将默认转为 periodic，除非房东或租客在租约结束前 90 至 21 天内提前通知不再续约。不再需要提供结束固定租期的理由。
宠物申请与宠物押金
实施日期尚未确定，但相关变化将使租客更容易申请养宠物，同时给予房东更多保障：
租客有权申请养宠物
房东可以拒绝，但须有合理理由（官方会提供合理理由清单）
同意后，房东可收取额外的 最多两周租金作为宠物押金
Beehive 会协助您评估每一个宠物申请，确保在保障房屋的前提下做出合理判断。我们的租客筛选流程依旧严谨。
技术性调整（自 2025 年 3 月 20 日起）
其他一些操作层面的改动包括：
房东可正式禁止屋内吸烟
租赁仲裁庭可根据书面材料裁决部分案件，减少出庭压力
允许电子通信，但仍须提供实体地址
我们为您打理所有细节
我们明白法规变化会让人感到不安。但这正是我们工作的核心 —— 由我们来了解、执行，您只需安心收租。
Beehive 将为您：
提交押金、更新租约、管理合同沟通
规范租约终止与续约流程，确保通知期准确
协助处理宠物相关申请与押金事宜
确保文件、流程合规、安全、明晰
法律不断变化，我们始终走在前面，确保您的房产管理不掉队。
想及时了解最新变化？欢迎常看我们的博客页面。
还有疑问？欢迎随时联系 Beehive Property Management 团队。
相关官方资源链接：
https://www.hud.govt.nz/our-work/residential-tenancies-amendment-act-2024
https://www.tenancy.govt.nz/about-tenancy-services/news/?tag=20
Upcoming Changes to New Zealand’s Residential Tenancy Law
New Zealand’s Residential Tenancy Law is undergoing significant updates aimed at creating a fairer balance between landlords and tenants. As Beehive Property Management, we want to ensure you are informed about these key changes and how they may impact you.
1. New Rules for Ending Periodic Tenancies
For landlords: Starting January 30, 2025, landlords will be able to end periodic tenancies by giving 90 days’ notice without providing a specific reason. Additionally, if the landlord or their family intends to move into the property within 90 days after the tenancy ends, or if there is an unconditional sale requiring vacant possession, a 42-day notice can be given.
For tenants: Tenants can end a periodic tenancy by providing 21 days’ notice.
2. Changes to Fixed-Term Tenancies
From January 30, 2025, fixed-term tenancies will automatically convert to periodic tenancies upon expiry unless:
Either party gives notice within 90 to 21 days before the tenancy ends, without needing to provide a reason.
Both parties agree on another arrangement.
3. Introduction of a Pet Bond
To encourage pet-friendly rentals, landlords can now charge an additional pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent, separate from the standard four-week tenancy bond. This helps cover potential damage caused by pets.
4. Smoking Restrictions in Rental Properties
Landlords can explicitly prohibit tenants from smoking inside the rental property to maintain the property’s condition and safeguard the health of other occupants.
5. Ending Tenancies Due to Family Violence
If a tenant or their household member experiences family violence, they can end the tenancy early without financial penalty by providing appropriate documentation.
These updates aim to clarify rights and responsibilities for both landlords and tenants. At Beehive Property Management, we are committed to staying compliant with the latest regulations and supporting our clients through these changes.
For more details, visit the official tenancy law changes page: Tenancy law changes
Beehive Property Management Christmas Office Closure Announcement
As the festive season approaches, we would like to inform you of our office schedule during the Christmas break.
Our office will be closed from Monday, 23rd December 2024, and will re-open on Monday, 6th January 2025. During this time, we will continue to respond to emails and online enquiries as usual. For any emergencies, please contact your dedicated property manager directly.
We extend our heartfelt thanks for your continued support throughout the year.
From all of us at Beehive Property Management, we wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!
New Rental Law Changes: A Win for Both Landlords and Tenants
Exciting changes to tenancy laws are on the horizon! The recent passage of the Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill marks a significant shift in New Zealand’s rental market. Designed to create a fairer balance between landlords and tenants, the new regulations are set to encourage more rental homes while improving tenant experiences.
What Are the Key Changes?
1. Reintroducing 90-Day ‘No Cause’ Terminations Landlords can once again end a periodic tenancy without providing a specific reason, with at least 90 days' notice. This reintroduction offers landlords a valuable safety net, increasing their confidence to rent to tenants they might have otherwise considered risky.
2. Shortened Notice Periods Notice periods for landlords ending a periodic tenancy have been reduced to 42 days in specific circumstances. For tenants, the notice period to end a periodic tenancy has been shortened from 28 to 21 days, making the process more flexible for everyone involved.
3. Fixed-Term Tenancies with Certainty Landlords can now end a fixed-term tenancy at its conclusion without requiring a specific reason. This is particularly beneficial in seasonal markets like Queenstown, where landlords need flexibility to use their property at certain times of the year.
4. Pet-Friendly Rentals A major win for pet owners! Landlords can now request a pet bond as part of tenancy agreements. Tenants need written permission to have a pet, and landlords can only decline on reasonable grounds. Importantly, tenants will be held fully liable for any careless or accidental damage caused by pets, providing reassurance for landlords.
Why These Changes Matter
The new laws aim to tackle New Zealand’s ongoing housing challenges by making rental properties more appealing to both landlords and tenants. For landlords, the reintroduction of no-cause terminations and fixed-term tenancy flexibility reduces uncertainty. For tenants, pet-friendly policies and reduced notice periods improve rental options and create more stability.
Implementation Timeline
These changes will roll out in stages:
January 2025: New rules for ending tenancies take effect.
Late 2025: Pet-related changes, including pet bonds, come into play.
What This Means for You
At Beehive Property Management, we’re here to help you navigate these new regulations smoothly. Whether you’re a landlord wondering how these changes affect your rights or a tenant looking for clarity on pet policies, we’ve got you covered.
Our team is committed to staying ahead of the curve, ensuring compliance with the latest tenancy laws while maximizing the benefits for both landlords and tenants. If you have questions or need guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Stay tuned to our blog for more updates and insights into New Zealand’s evolving property landscape. Together, let’s make renting better for everyone!
Be a proactive tenant: ensuring fire safety with smoke alarms
It all begins with an idea.
Now is the time to be a proactive fire safety tenant. Being proactive will save lives and from smoke alarm failure fines of up to $4000.00.
Now is the time to be a proactive, fire-safe tenant – this can save lives. We want to keep you safe, but we do need your help here as well!It is essential to check each alarm. We are required to have smoke alarms installed within three meters of every bedroom and on each floor of a home – and we’ll make sure of that but we want to bring you up to speed on your part here as well.
So – there are two types of smoke alarms: the modern Cavius alarm that does not require batteries and the older style, battery-powered alarm.
If your alarm is battery-powered, make sure it has a working battery by pushing the test button on the alarm to hear the beep, indicating it is still functioning. If it doesn’t beep, replace the battery (this is the tenant’s responsibility) and check the expiry date.
If you have a Cavius alarm, simply push the bottom of the alarm to hear the beep, indicating it is still working.
So here are a few things we need from you:
Please do not damage, remove, or disconnect a smoke alarm
Replace dead batteries during the tenancy if they are battery-powered smoke alarms. If this does not work or you notice the alarm has expired, please contact your property manager as soon as possible.
If a Cavius alarm is not beeping when you test it, please get in touch with your property manager as soon as possible as well.
If you have any issues or are unsure about your alarms, please get in touch – we are here to help!
For further information from Fire Emergency New Zealand, please visit : https://fireandemergency.nz/at-home/smoke-alarms/
Tenant Guidance
It all begins with an idea.
Guide to Choosing the Right Rental Property
At Beehive Property Management, we understand that finding the right rental property for you and your family is a big decision. To help you make an informed choice, we’ve put together this guide covering important considerations for prospective tenants.
Ensure the Property Suits You
It is your responsibility to ensure that the property you are applying for meets your needs. Once your application is approved and a tenancy agreement is signed, you will have binding obligations under the agreement. Changing your mind after signing is not an option, so it’s crucial to select the right property upfront.
Your tenancy will be governed by the terms outlined in the Tenancy Agreement and the Residential Tenancies Act. To assist you, here are some key points to consider when selecting your next home.
Choosing the Right Location
How do I choose the right location?
Start by narrowing down your preferred areas. Consider proximity to schools, public transport, shops, and your place of work. This will save you time and ensure the location aligns with your lifestyle.
What should I expect from a suburb?
Take note of the neighborhood and its general atmosphere. The condition of nearby properties and vehicles can give you an idea of the community. Explore local amenities, shops, and services to ensure the area meets your needs.
How do I research a suburb?
Use tools like Google Maps to get a visual understanding of the area before visiting. Satellite images can help you evaluate the surroundings.
Check school zones and local enrollment information if you have children. Community newsletters and local newspapers (e.g., Stuff.co.nz) are also excellent resources for learning about the neighborhood. Finally, compare rental properties on platforms like TradeMe or Realestate.co.nz.
Rental Costs
What rent will I pay?
Rental costs depend largely on location, amenities, and market conditions. Properties closer to city centers or high-performing schools typically have higher rents.
Use the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment’s Tenancy Services website to review the latest rental market data. This tool provides insights into average, lower, and upper rental price brackets for different property types.
Security and Maintenance
What about security?
Most properties are rented ‘as is,’ meaning property owners are not always required to upgrade security. Before moving in, check for locks on doors and windows to ensure you feel safe.
Who takes care of maintenance?
Clarify maintenance responsibilities before signing your tenancy agreement. For instance, find out who is responsible for lawns, gardens, driveways, or any shared areas. If there is a swimming pool, ask whether you or the owner will handle its upkeep.
Living Conditions
What about insulation?
Ensure the property is warm, dry, and well-ventilated. Look for signs of moisture, such as discoloration on floors, paintwork, or curtains, which may indicate dampness. While minor moisture is common in rentals, it’s important to choose a home that’s comfortable year-round.
What are the noise rules?
If the property is near a main road, in the CBD, or close to a construction site, some noise is expected. Properties in these areas may have features like double glazing to minimize noise. Remember, external noise is generally beyond the owner’s control, so evaluate this during your property inspection.
Understanding Tenancy Basics
What is a tenancy?
A tenancy begins once your application is approved, and a tenancy agreement is signed. This agreement is a legal document that outlines the obligations of both parties. Be sure to read and understand all terms before signing.
What is a tenancy term?
The tenancy term can either be fixed (e.g., 6 or 12 months) or periodic (month-to-month). Discuss and agree on the tenancy term with the landlord or property manager.
Do I need my agreement in writing?
Yes, all tenancy agreements should be in writing. The agreement should detail obligations such as bond payments, rent due dates, and other key terms.
What is a bond?
A bond is typically equal to four weeks’ rent and is held by Tenancy Services. The landlord must lodge your bond with Tenancy Services within 21 working days of receiving it. You should receive confirmation of the lodgment within five weeks of the tenancy start date.
Additional Resources
If you’d like more information about your rights and responsibilities as a tenant, we recommend visiting the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment’s Tenancy Services website. It’s an excellent resource for tenants and landlords alike.
At Beehive Property Management, we’re here to help you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need assistance during your rental journey, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Why Landlords should conduct meth testing?
It all begins with an idea.
Methamphetamine contamination is a significant concern for property owners, particularly in rental properties. Regular meth testing is essential to ensure the safety of tenants and protect the landlord's investment.
Why Conduct Meth Testing?
Health and Safety: Exposure to methamphetamine residues can lead to serious health issues, including respiratory problems, headaches, and skin irritation. Ensuring a property is free from contamination safeguards the well-being of current and future occupants.
Financial Protection: Decontaminating a property can be expensive, often costing tens of thousands of dollars. Insurance companies may require evidence of regular meth testing to process claims related to contamination. Without documented testing, landlords might be liable for the full cost of decontamination.
Legal Compliance: Landlords are legally obligated to provide a safe living environment. Regular meth testing demonstrates due diligence in maintaining property safety standards, potentially mitigating legal risks.
When to Test for Meth Contamination
Pre-Purchase: Before acquiring a property, conducting a meth test ensures you're not inheriting contamination issues, which could lead to unforeseen expenses and health risks.
Pre-Tenancy: Testing before a new tenant moves in establishes a baseline, confirming the property is free from meth contamination. This practice can be crucial for insurance purposes and tenant assurance.
Post-Tenancy: Testing after a tenant vacates can identify any contamination that occurred during the tenancy, aiding in holding the responsible parties accountable and addressing issues promptly.
Implementing Meth Testing
Partnering with professional meth testing services ensures accurate and reliable results. These services adhere to national standards, providing comprehensive reports and recommendations based on their findings.
Regular meth testing is a proactive measure that protects both landlords and tenants. By ensuring properties are free from methamphetamine contamination, landlords uphold their duty of care, maintain property value, and contribute to the well-being of the community.