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In November a Te Aroha tenant was ordered to pay only $50.44 on top of their $820 bond after creating $25,000 worth of damage for smashed holes in the wall, ruined carpets and several broken doors and windows. The tenant even admitted to the damage, including using a crowbar to enter the property when she locked herself out.
So Why was the Tenant Charged So Little?
Under the Tenancy Act the landlord is required to produce evidence to prove that the tenant has caused any damage during the tenancy.
Unfortunately for the landlord Peter Spitters, he did not take any photos before the tenancy, he had stopped regularly inspecting the property, and neither the landlord nor the tenant could give an accurate account of when inspections took place either.
No photographic evidence meant the landlord could not prove the tenant caused the damage.
The Lesson
He said, she said doesn’t work in Tenancy Tribunal. You need hard evidence if you want to make a claim as a landlord.
At Quinovic, our Property Managers take hundreds of photos recording the condition of the property at the beginning of each tenancy, plus additional photos of any concerns at each property inspection every 3 months. Final inspection photos are then used to compare, showing tenants why their bond is needed. Tenants know we keep a close eye on the rental properties we manage, which discourages them from causing any issues in the property.
If you're considering Property Management get in touch with us today. Locally owned and managed, we offer residential property management services across the entire Wellington & Hutt Valley region.
We take care of investments, offering peace of mind and a personal service to investors and tenants alike. Our solutions are backed by industry-leading technology and proven systems that promote both excellent property care and strong investment returns. Taking on all aspects of the landlord’s role, we guide our clients with professional, tailored advice using our extensive experience and insight in the rental market that can only be built over time.
If you would like to chat about the possibility of working together, or to receive a no-obligation, FREE Rental Appraisal get in touch with our team today.
Quinovic Johnsonville | Wellington
Call Jordan Atkinson - 027 297 0873
Quinovic Hutt Valley | Wellington
Call Helen Vance - 027 487 8103
Quinovic Kent Terrace | Wellington
Call Jordan Atkinson - 027 297 0873
Quinovic Wellington Property Managers