2026 NOTICE

Exclusive Offer for New Landlords: Complimentary Rental Appraisal + 3 Months’ Free Management

NEW LISTINGS

New Quality Residences in Ilam & Wigram Skies Now Open for Tenancy Applications.

View All Rentals →
OWNERS

Specialist Christchurch Property Management — Zero Letting Fees & Comprehensive Tenant Screening.

Explore Services →

For Christchurch Tenants

Finding a Quality Home You Love Living In.

Browse verified quality homes, submit online maintenance requests, or reach out to our property management team anytime.

Tenant Assistance & Care

How can we assist you today?

Whether you need urgent repairs attended to or have questions regarding your tenancy, lease agreement, or bond, submit your request here and our dedicated property managers will assist promptly.

Emergency Contacts (24/7)

For immediate threats to life or serious property hazards (fire, major flood, gas leak), call 111 immediately, then notify MRSL on our 24/7 emergency lines:

Tenant Q&A · Official Guide

Frequently Asked Questions by Tenants.

Clear, reliable answers regarding rental applications, move-in costs, rent payments, routine inspections, maintenance procedures, alterations, pets, damage liability, insurance, and vacating requirements.

Applying & Moving In

What do I need to apply for a rental property?

To submit a complete application, every adult applicant (18+) must provide: (1) Photo identification (NZ Driver Licence, Passport, or Kiwi Access Card); (2) Contact details for two verifiable references (preferably previous property managers/landlords and a current employer); (3) Proof of income (e.g., recent payslips or a letter of employment) to verify affordability. Note: In accordance with the Privacy Act, we only collect the minimum information required to assess your application and process all personal data securely.

What are the move-in costs?

Standard move-in costs consist of: (1) Bond: 4 weeks rent (lodged with Tenancy Services trust account); (2) Rent in Advance: 1 to 2 weeks rent; (3) Total Move-in Cost: Maximum equivalent of 5–6 weeks rent. Note: Under NZ law, letting fees or key money are strictly prohibited and never charged to tenants.

During the Tenancy & Living Operations

How and when do I pay my rent?

Rent is paid via automatic payment (AP), typically on a weekly frequency, to the designated MRSL bank account provided in your tenancy agreement. We require a single unified payment from the tenant household rather than multiple split transfers. Please ensure your unique reference code is included with every payment.

What happens if I miss a rent payment or know I cannot pay on time?

Immediate communication is key. If you know your payment will be delayed due to unexpected circumstances, contact your Property Manager immediately before the due date. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for unnotified rent arrears; failure to pay rent by the due date may result in formal notices and tenancy termination proceedings.

How do routine property inspections work and how much notice will I receive?

Routine property inspections are generally carried out every 13 weeks (approximately every 3 months), with at least 48 hours written notice (and no more than 14 days notice) provided. Under the Residential Tenancies Act 1986, inspections take place between 8:00 am and 7:00 pm, ensuring property standards while respecting your privacy and quiet enjoyment.

How do I report routine maintenance repairs?

Please log all non-urgent maintenance requests through our Online Maintenance Form on this page or email admin@mrsl.nz. Please include clear photos or a brief video showing the issue, as this allows us to fast-track landlord approval and dispatch the correct qualified contractor on the first visit.

How do I report an urgent or emergency hazard?

If you have an urgent emergency regarding plumbing, sewerage, electrical sparking, gas leak, or total loss of hot water/heating, please call our 24/7 emergency lines on 0800 55 1212 or 021 223 0384 immediately. In life-threatening emergencies, always dial 111 first. (Note: If an emergency callout is dispatched for a non-urgent matter, a callout fee may apply).

Can I make minor alterations to the property (e.g., picture hooks, safety gates)?

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, tenants can make minor alterations (such as hanging pictures, earthquake furniture restraints, or fitting baby safety gates), but you must request written consent from MRSL first. Landlords cannot unreasonably withhold consent for minor changes, provided the property is restored upon vacating.

Am I allowed to keep a pet at the property?

Pet policies vary depending on the specific property and landlord consent. If you wish to bring a pet into the property, you must submit a Pet Application Form specifying the age, breed, and training history of the animal. A formal pet agreement variation and specific care terms will apply upon approval.

What happens if I accidentally damage something in the property?

Report any damage to us immediately so we can prevent further structural issues. • Accidental / Careless Damage: Under NZ law, tenant liability for careless damage is capped at either the landlord insurance excess or 4 weeks market rent—whichever is lower. • Intentional Damage or Malicious Acts: The tenant is fully liable for the entire repair and replacement cost.

Do I need insurance cover while I am renting?

We strongly recommend that all tenants hold Contents Insurance with Personal Liability cover. • Landlord Insurance: Covers the building structure and fixed fixtures, but NOT your personal belongings or furniture. • Tenant Liability Cover: Protects you against unexpected costs or claims if you or your guests accidentally cause damage to the property or neighbouring units.

Ending the Tenancy & Moving Out

How much notice do I need to give to end my tenancy?

• Periodic Tenancy: You must provide at least 28 days written notice. • Fixed-Term Tenancy: A fixed-term agreement cannot be ended early by simple notice. If your circumstances change, contact your Property Manager to discuss a Break-Lease / Assignment process. (Reasonable re-letting costs and rent up until a new approved tenant moves in will apply).