How do I check prospective Tenants?

Our Experts Answer:

The Department of Building and Housing does not have a database of history or other information about tenants or landlords. However, you can view Tenancy Tribunal decisions at www.tenancytribunal.govt.nz.

There you can do a search for the name of a prospective tenant to see whether they may have been involved in recent proceedings in the Tribunal.

The Department also has an application form that can be used when prospective tenants are applying to rent a property, which you can find at http://www.dbh.govt.nz/pub-pre-tenancy-index#map2.

The form includes a request for references. For further information, you can contact the Department of Building and Housing on 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.