Solving 'quiet enjoyment' versus 'access for renovations' issues

Our Experts Answer:

Where necessary maintenance or repairs are required, and access to the interior of the home is essential, the landlord must give the tenant a minimum of 24 hours notice of entry. Access to the outside area of the premises only does not require notice. However, in either case landlords need to ensure they do not interfere with the tenant’s reasonable peace, comfort and privacy during the tenancy. Where the work is not necessary maintenance or repairs, the landlord will need to obtain the tenants consent if access to the interior is required.

Painting the exterior of a property can be a substantial job which may interfere with the tenant’s reasonable peace, comfort and privacy, and may be best done between tenancies to avoid any disruption to tenants. In this type of situation, a landlord may want to consider whether they offer the tenant compensation (i.e. reduced rent for the period of the work) if the intended work will cause them undue disruption.

To discuss your situation further, or for information about a landlord’s right of entry to the premises, 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.