How much bond can a landlord charge in NZ?

A landlord can charge a maximum of 4 weeks rent as a bond. This is set by the Residential Tenancies Act 1986. For example, if your rent is $550 per week, the maximum bond is $2,200. The landlord cannot charge more than this, even for furnished properties or properties with pets.

Where does my bond money go?

Your landlord must lodge your bond with Tenancy Services (part of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment) within 23 working days of receiving it. Tenancy Services holds the bond for the duration of your tenancy. The money does not go to the landlord. If the landlord fails to lodge the bond, they can be fined up to $1,000.

How do I get my bond back?

At the end of your tenancy, either you or your landlord can apply to Tenancy Services for the bond refund. If both parties agree on how much to refund, the process is straightforward. If there is a dispute (for example, the landlord wants to keep some for damage or unpaid rent), either party can apply to the Tenancy Tribunal for a ruling. Bond refunds typically take 5 to 10 working days once approved.

Can a landlord charge a letting fee in NZ?

No. Letting fees were banned in New Zealand from 12 December 2018. Landlords and property managers cannot charge tenants a fee for finding or securing a rental property. Any letting fee charged after this date is unlawful and can be recovered through the Tenancy Tribunal.

How much rent in advance can a landlord ask for?

A landlord can ask for a maximum of 2 weeks rent in advance. Combined with the bond (maximum 4 weeks), the total upfront cost when moving in is a maximum of 6 weeks rent. The landlord cannot require more than this.

NZ Tenancy Bond Calculator 2026

Bond Refund Process

At the end of your tenancy, either party applies to Tenancy Services for the bond refund online at tenancy.govt.nz. If both parties agree, the refund is processed in 5 to 10 working days. If the landlord claims part of the bond for damage or unpaid rent, and you disagree, the matter goes to the Tenancy Tribunal for a ruling. Keep records of the property's condition at move-in (photos, the property inspection report) to support your refund claim.

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Sources: Residential Tenancies Act 1986 (legislation.govt.nz). Tenancy Services (tenancy.govt.nz). Residential Tenancies (Letting Fees) Amendment Act 2018.

This calculator provides indicative estimates. Actual move-in costs depend on your specific tenancy agreement and circumstances.

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NZ Tenancy Bond Calculator

1. Rent Details

2. Additional Move-In Costs

Your Move-In Budget

Move-In Cost Breakdown

Key Rules

Tenancy Bond Rules in New Zealand

Bond Refund Process

What a Landlord Cannot Charge

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