Below are the most commonly received queries from current and potential Priority Property Management tenants in the Christchurch area. If you require more information or have a query not answered here, please contact us and we will respond shortly.

Bonds:

When must the bond be paid by?

The bond must be paid in full before the start of the tenancy. Tenants can always find the bond amount set out in their lease agreement when signing or renewing the contract.

When will I receive my bond back?

Priority Property Management will return the bond promptly at the termination of the tenancy as long as there is no rent in arrears or any other outstanding costs for property cleaning or repairs.

Do I need to complete any paperwork to receive my bond?

Priority Property Management will return your bond and complete all the required paperwork.  Alternatively, you can make your own arrangements to transfer the bond to a new rental property.

Insurance:

Who is responsible for contents insurance?

The property owner is responsible for insuring the property, including any fixtures and fittings. Tenants are responsible for insuring their personal belongings against damage or theft. Priority Property Management recommends that each tenant buys separate contents insurance.

Rent:

How often can rent increase?

By law, rent can only increase once every 180 days (6 months) during the tenancy. Priority Property Management frequently checks rental rates for the Christchurch area and will advise the property owner if rent payment is set too low or high for the occupied property. Tenants will be given notice of any rent increases in advance.

Tenancy:

Can the landlord sell the property during my tenancy?

Although the property owner can sell the property while it is being occupied, the tenants are legally able to stay on in the property until the end of the agreed tenancy period. The new owner may choose then to retain the tenants or forego renewing the tenancy agreement. Tenants should check the length of the tenancy in the lease agreement prior to signing and contact Priority Property Management staff with any queries regarding this matter.

Bills:

Who is responsible for water rates?

The tenant is responsible for all water usage, which is monitored by a water meter. Once Priority is in receipt of the water bill, the tenants will be sent an invoice.

Who is responsible for garden maintenance?

Gardening responsibilities can be discussed prior to the commencement of the tenancy. Typically, the tenants are responsible for light garden work, such as lawn mowing and plant watering. Tree cutting and more heavy duty responsibilities which may require specialised equipment are the responsibility of the property owner.

Maintenance:

Who is responsible for mould prevention and removal?

The property owner should ensure that the property contains working extractor fans, dehumidifiers and other forms of ventilation to prevent a build-up of condensation that would lead to mould. Tenants need to ensure that they are using all methods available to them to reduce dampness. Airing the residence regularly, particularly the bathroom and kitchen, is recommended to prevent mould from forming.

Who is responsible for fixtures and fittings maintenance?

The property owner is responsible for maintaining all provided furniture and white goods within the household, including replacing any broken or faulty items. However, if a fixture or fitting is found to be damaged due to misuse by the tenants, then the tenants may be charged for its replacement.

Who is responsible for maintaining the spa or swimming pool?

Pool responsibilities can be discussed prior to the commencement of the tenancy. Typically, the property owner engages the services of a pool maintenance company and this cost is then included in the property rent.

Priority Property Management is here to ensure that your tenancy is stress-free. You can search for properties on our website and let us know if you have any questions or queries.