Friend as property manager?
Question from Basim updated on 23rd December 2019:
I have an investment property which I have always managed by my self. But I am now planning to go overseas for more than three months. Can I ask a friend to look after the property for me or do I need to engage a property manager?
Our expert Bernard Parker responded:
Yes, you can ask a friend to look after the property. You do not have to hire a professional. The Residential Tenancies Act requires (section 16A) that a landlord must have agent if he/she is or will be out of New Zealand for longer than 21 consecutive days. The purpose is to have a local representative who can carry out your duties while you are overseas. You will have to notify the tenant and the Bond Centre about the change of contact. (The friend will have to be empowered to sign off the tenant’s bond if appropriate.) I suggest you look at Section 16A and ensure you complete all the necessary notifications.
Bernard is principal of Quinovic – Kapiti-Mana. Quinovic's outstanding people and systems provide the most professional, effective and reliable residential property management service in the NZ market for over 30 years.Search the Ask an Expert archive
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