Unwanted Guests? Who's Problem is a Pest Problem.

As the temperatures drop, you're not the only one looking for a warm, dry place to hunker down - winter is prime time for pests like mice, rats, and cockroaches to move indoors.

🐭 Who’s Responsible for Pests in a Rental? A Guide for NZ Landlords and Tenants

Dealing with pests in a rental property can be frustrating — whether it’s ants in the pantry, mice in the walls, or cockroaches making an appearance. But who’s actually responsible for getting rid of them? The answer depends on when the problem occurs and what caused it.

🏡 What Landlords Are Responsible For

Landlords must ensure the property is free from pests and vermin at the beginning of the tenancy. They also have a duty to maintain the home so it doesn’t become a breeding ground for pests. This includes things like sealing up holes, fixing leaks, and preventing dampness — all of which can attract unwanted guests.

👣 What Tenants Are Expected To Do

Tenants play a big role in keeping pests away too. Keeping the property clean and tidy, storing food properly, and disposing of rubbish regularly are all essential. If the property is left in a way that encourages pests (like leaving food out or letting rubbish pile up), the tenant may be responsible for any resulting infestations.

🐜 What to Do If You Notice Pests

If you’re a tenant and you notice signs of a pest issue, it’s important to let your landlord know immediately.

If the pests:

• Weren’t present at the start of the tenancy, and
• No one’s actions directly caused the issue, then both parties might agree to split the cost of pest control.
  
  However, if the issue arose due to the landlord failing to maintain the property (for example, holes in the walls or roof), tenants may have the right to issue a Notice to Remedy asking the landlord to address the problem.

🧼 Fumigation: Who Pays?

If a professional fumigation is needed:

• Landlords will usually cover the cost if the problem wasn’t caused by the tenant.
• Some landlords proactively arrange annual fumigation as part of ongoing maintenance (this is often noted in the tenancy agreement).
• Tenants may be asked to pay if the infestation resulted from poor hygiene or neglect.
  
  

🛡️ Preventing Pests in the First Place

Before Moving In

Tenants should always do a detailed property inspection with the landlord before signing the tenancy agreement. Look for any signs of pests or damage that might allow them into the home, such as:

• Gaps in walls, ceilings, or flooring
• Broken seals around windows or doors
• Uncovered vents or open chimneys
  
  

Landlords are required under the Healthy Homes Standards to seal unreasonable draughts and block open fireplaces (unless otherwise agreed with the tenant).

During the Tenancy

Tenants should:

• Clean up crumbs and spills promptly
• Store food in sealed containers
• Take rubbish out regularly
• Avoid leaving pet food or dirty dishes out overnight

By doing this, you're removing the main things that attract pests — food, water, and shelter.

⚖️ Final Thoughts

Both landlords and tenants have responsibilities when it comes to managing pests in a rental property. Open communication and quick action are key. The sooner an infestation is reported, the easier (and cheaper) it is to fix. Prevention is always better than cure — and when in doubt, refer to your tenancy agreement or seek guidance from Tenancy Services NZ.

i-Rentals are professional and local Property Management experts in Whangarei, Northland. If you are a landlord and have had enough of dealing with the day to day operations of your rental investment contact us for a no obligation chat! www.i-rentals.co.nz

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