Landlord inspections

Our Experts Answer:

For the purpose of a property inspection, a landlord can enter the premises providing:

• the landlord gives the tenant a minimum of 48 hours notice of the inspection 

• the inspection is within 14 days of giving the notice

• the inspection is not carried out within 4 weeks of any previous inspection

• the inspection is carried out on the day specified between 8am and 7pm Therefore, providing the correct notice is given, a landlord can carry out an inspection as long as it is not within 4 weeks of a previous one.

For the purpose of a property inspection for a boarding house tenancy, a landlord may enter the boarding room providing:

• the landlord gives the tenant a minimum of 24 hours notice of the inspection

• the inspection is not carried out within 4 weeks of any previous inspection

• the landlord identifies the person (or persons) entering the room

• the inspection is carried out on the day specified between 8am and 6pm (noting the approximate time of entry)

In either case listed above, the landlord may re-inspect the property within 4 weeks of an inspection to check whether the tenant has remedied a particular breach within a specified time-frame, providing the remainder of the conditions above are met.

To discuss your situation further, or for information about property inspections, you can visit the Department of Building and Housing website (www.dbh.govt.nz), 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.