Enforcement of Tenancy Tribunal Orders

Our Experts Answer:

Enforcement of Tenancy Tribunal Orders falls within the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Justice (MOJ). The Collections Unit within MOJ can only enforce a Tenancy Tribunal Order where the debtor is in New Zealand, as the summons needs to be served upon the debtor in person. If the debtor returns to New Zealand and you have a current address where they can be served, you can contact the Collections Unit at your local District Court to start enforcement proceedings.

Alternatively you may wish to consider contacting a debt-collection agency to see if they are able to assist you. To discuss your situation further, or for information about enforcement of Tenancy Tribunal orders, you can visit the Department of Building and Housing website (http://www.dbh.govt.nz/enforcing-sealed-order), or call 0800 TENANCY (0800 836 262).

The Department of Building and Housing provides information and guidance on building law and compliance, services including weathertight homes, and advice for tenants and landlords.