Friend as property manager?

Our Experts Answer:

Yes, you can ask a friend to look after the property. You do not have to hire a professional. The Residential Tenancies Act requires (section 16A) that a landlord must have agent if he/she is or will be out of New Zealand for longer than 21 consecutive days. The purpose is to have a local representative who can carry out your duties while you are overseas. You will have to notify the tenant and the Bond Centre about the change of contact. (The friend will have to be empowered to sign off the tenant’s bond if appropriate.) I suggest you look at Section 16A and ensure you complete all the necessary notifications.