Learn More about the partnership
Your Tenant Journey
From finding a home to collecting the keys and settling in, our rentals team is here to explain the steps. This guide shows what to expect when you rent a property managed by Ray White Bream Bay and who to contact along the way.
1. Finding and viewing a property
Review current rental listings, confirm the weekly rent and available date, and attend the advertised viewing. Ask questions about the property, parking, included chattels, maintenance responsibilities and any special tenancy conditions.
2. Completing an application
Provide complete and accurate information for every proposed tenant. The application may request identification, rental history, references and information needed to assess suitability. If you wish to keep a pet, disclose this and follow the applicable pet consent process.
3. Application assessment
The property manager will assess the application and complete relevant checks. Supplying an application does not guarantee the property. You will be contacted if further information is required or if the application is accepted.
4. Tenancy agreement and bond
Read the tenancy agreement carefully before signing. Confirm the rent, bond, start date, occupants, chattels and any agreed conditions. Keep copies of the signed agreement, bond information and initial inspection report.
Your bond: what happens next?
For most residential tenancies, if you pay the bond to the landlord or property manager, they must lodge it with Tenancy Services within 23 working days. Once lodged, you will receive confirmation with your bond number. Keep your Tenant Number private, including from your landlord. Read Tenancy Services’ bond lodgement guidance for details and exceptions.
At the end of the tenancy, discuss the final inspection and any proposed deductions with your property manager. The landlord can request a refund through Bond Hub or integrated property management software. Check the proposed allocation before agreeing; if you cannot agree, see Tenancy Services’ refund guidance for the available steps.
5. Moving in
Review the initial condition report and promptly note anything that is missing or inaccurate. Date-stamped photographs can provide a useful record. Make sure you understand how rent is paid, who to contact and how to report urgent and routine maintenance.
6. During the tenancy
- Pay rent in full and on time.
- Keep contact details current.
- Report maintenance and damage promptly.
- Allow lawful access for inspections and approved work after the required notice.
- Comply with the tenancy agreement and obtain written approval before making relevant changes.
Read our tips for a successful tenancy for more practical guidance.
7. Routine inspections and maintenance
Routine inspections help the landlord understand the condition of the property and identify maintenance. The property manager will provide notice in accordance with current tenancy requirements. Tell us about relevant issues before the inspection rather than waiting if work is needed.
How to report a repair
Let your property manager know as soon as you notice damage or something that needs fixing. Include the property address, the room or area affected, when you first noticed the issue, what is happening and whether it is getting worse or causing further damage. Photos can help if it is safe to take them. Keep a copy of your message and any reply.
If the issue is urgent, call the property management team as well as sending the details in writing, and follow any after-hours instructions in your tenancy information. Tenancy Services explains that where disrepair is likely to cause injury or property damage, a tenant may arrange urgent repairs and seek reimbursement if they first made reasonable attempts to contact the landlord. Keep receipts and read the current damage and repairs guidance before arranging work.
8. Ending the tenancy
Notice requirements depend on the tenancy and the circumstances. Contact the property manager before giving notice if you are unsure of the process. Before vacating, complete cleaning and agreed responsibilities, remove belongings and return all keys. A final inspection will be completed and the bond refund process will follow.
For a periodic tenancy, a tenant generally needs to give at least 21 days’ written notice unless the landlord agrees to a shorter period. Notice must include the property address and end date and be signed. If several tenants are named on the agreement, notice from one tenant ends the periodic tenancy for all of them. Allow time for your notice to be delivered. Tenancy Services explains periodic notice and how to serve notices.
A fixed-term tenancy works differently: it generally cannot be ended early by giving notice alone. Check the guidance on ending a fixed term early and talk with your property manager about your circumstances and available options.
Comparing rental options around the area? See our Bream Bay rent benchmarks and viewing checklist, including recent Tenancy Services figures for Ruakākā and One Tree Point.
Need help during your tenancy?
Contact Ray White Bream Bay on 09 433 0334 or email rentals.breambay@raywhite.com. Independent tenancy information is available from Tenancy Services.