Clarke Group Property Management

Frequently Asked
Questions

Whether you’re renting out your first investment property or switching managers, find clear answers to the questions Auckland property owners ask us most.

Renting Your Property

How will my rent be set?

We assess your property’s location, size, condition and features against comparable Auckland rentals. That gives us a practical rental range to discuss with you.

How long until I start receiving rental income?

That depends on when the property is ready, its price, tenant demand and the agreed tenancy start date. We’ll give you a realistic marketing plan and keep you updated on enquiries and applications.

What do tenants get before moving into my property?

We arrange the tenancy agreement, required property information and move-in inspection record. Tenants receive payment details, keys and guidance on reporting maintenance and contacting their manager.

Can you guarantee my tenant won’t cause trouble?

No screening process can remove every risk. Careful checks, clear expectations, regular inspections and prompt follow-up help us identify and manage issues early.

Rent & Payments

When can I increase the rent?

Check the tenancy start date, the last increase and the agreement. For ordinary residential tenancies, increases generally need at least 60 days’ written notice and cannot take effect within 12 months of the start or previous increase.

How often can the rent be increased?

Generally, no more than once every 12 months. During a fixed-term tenancy, the agreement must also allow the increase. We check timing and market evidence before recommending a change.

What happens if a tenant is late paying rent?

We check the payment record and contact the tenant promptly. We keep you informed and, if necessary, follow the appropriate notice and Tenancy Services process.

Current guidance from Tenancy Services

Property Maintenance

Can I arrange repairs after hours or on weekends?

Contact your Property Manager to coordinate access and the contractor. Tenants should report urgent repairs immediately. If there is an immediate risk to life or safety, call emergency services on 111.

Who is responsible for maintaining listed chattels?

The landlord generally maintains chattels supplied with the property, such as appliances. Responsibility for damage depends on its cause and the applicable tenancy rules.

Who is responsible for mould?

It depends on the cause. Landlords must address property defects and provide a home that meets the required standards. Tenants should ventilate the home, deal with surface mould and promptly report dampness or leaks so the cause can be investigated.

Who is responsible for pests?

Responsibility depends on when and why the problem arose. Report it promptly so we can assess the cause, the property’s condition and the appropriate treatment.

Who is responsible for lawn and garden care?

The tenancy agreement should make the arrangement clear. Tenants are usually responsible for everyday upkeep such as mowing and weeding; landlords generally handle major work such as tree maintenance.

Current guidance from Tenancy Services

Utilities & Insurance

Who pays the water bill?

Tenants can be charged for water use when the property is separately metered and the charge relates to their consumption. Fixed charges and water costs that cannot be attributed to the tenant generally remain with the landlord.

Do I really need landlord insurance?

Discuss cover with your insurer or broker before renting out the property. Ordinary owner-occupier cover may not suit a rental. Check the policy’s inspection, occupancy and claims requirements.

Who pays for insurance?

The landlord arranges insurance for the property. Tenants are responsible for insuring their own belongings. We can help you understand the property information you need to give your insurer.

Current guidance from Tenancy Services

Pets

Can tenants keep pets at my property?

Under rules in force from 1 December 2025, tenants generally need written consent to keep a pet. A landlord can refuse only on reasonable grounds and must follow the response requirements. Assistance dogs are treated differently.

What are the rules if I allow pets?

Reasonable consent conditions may apply. A pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent may be permitted for a new pet kept from 1 December 2025, subject to the rules. Existing pets and assistance dogs have different treatment.

Who is responsible for pet-related damage?

The rules distinguish pet damage from fair wear and tear, with specific provisions applying from 1 December 2025. We check the timing and circumstances before advising on responsibility or a claim.

Will allowing pets help me find tenants?

It can open the property to applicants with pets. Each request should be assessed on the property, the proposed pet and the current consent rules, rather than applying a blanket refusal.

Current guidance from Tenancy Services

Selling Your Property

Can I sell my property while it’s tenanted?

Yes. You must tell the tenants in writing that the property is being put on the market. We can coordinate with you and your sales agent while respecting the tenancy and access requirements.

What happens to the tenant if I sell my property?

A sale does not automatically end the tenancy. Whether it continues or can be ended depends on the agreement, the sale arrangements and the lawful notice process.

Can prospective buyers inspect my property while it’s rented?

Viewings need to be arranged with the tenant. Tenants cannot unreasonably refuse access for viewings but can set reasonable conditions. We help agree a workable schedule.

Should I wait until the tenancy ends before selling?

That depends on your sales strategy, the tenancy and the likely buyer. Discuss timing with your sales agent and manager before promising vacant possession.

How can CGPM help if I decide to sell?

We can help coordinate tenant communications, property information, maintenance and viewing arrangements with your sales agent.

Current guidance from Tenancy Services

For a particular tenancy, the agreement and circumstances matter. Our team can help you work through the right next step.

Let’s talk

Let’s Talk About Your Property

A question about your rental, or thinking about a change of manager? Talk to our Auckland team.

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