Best Landlord & Tenant Lawyers in Christchurch

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Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Māori
English
We are a team of experienced and approachable lawyers who deal with a variety of legal matters including property & business sale and purchases (conveyancing), building contracts, wills, trusts, estates, relationship property agreements, enduring powers of attorney and notary services, through...
Duncan Cotterill
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1857
500 people in their team
Māori
English
Duncan Cotterill has grown to become one of the leading law firms in New Zealand. We have achieved this because as a firm we are very clear about where we are heading and what we want to achieve. We have a strong set of values and we are totally committed to working alongside our clients to help...
Weston Ward & Lascelles
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1883
50 people in their team
Māori
English
You receive quality and practical advice from a highly experienced legal team. We deliver an exquisite service at the most cost-effective price. Weston Ward & Lascelles has been providing quality legal advice since 1883. We are medium sized Christchurch law firm with a team of highly...
Godfreys Law
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1870
50 people in their team
Māori
English
We’ve proudly been helping Cantabrians like you for almost 150 years.Our aim is to make your life easier.We’re real people, providing real legal solutions.You might have seen our building as you drive down Moorhouse Ave, opposite the Ara Polytech buildings. Just off Washington Way, you will...
Harmans Lawyers
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1888
200 people in their team
Māori
English
Our HistoryServing Canterbury since 1888Harmans’ long association with Canterbury’s legal community began in 1888, when Thomas DeRenzy Harman, the son of Richard Harman, a passenger on one of the First Four Ships, established his own practice.Over the next 100-odd years the firm was known by a...
Lane Neave
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1868
200 people in their team
Māori
English
Lane Neave is committed to solving problems and realising opportunities for our clients.We tap into more than 150 years of experience and provide our hugely talented pool of emerging and current legal experts with the opportunity to make the complex simple.We provide clear, decisive legal advice...
MDS Law
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 2012
10 people in their team
Māori
English
Embrace thinking:{mds} law is a medium sized specialist property and commercial law firm based in Christchurch, New Zealand.  We act for clients locally and nationally and also act for international clients with businesses or property in New Zealand as well as those looking to invest in New...
Wynn Williams
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1859
200 people in their team
Māori
English
Wynn Williams is a full-service law firm, with an impressive team of experienced and talented lawyers delivering results for corporates, businesses, institutions and individuals, here in New Zealand and further afield. For more than 163 years, we've been known for our technical excellence,...
Darcy Thomson Law Ltd
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Māori
English
At D’arcy Thomson Law we provide a high level of specialist property advice on all aspects of property transactions including commercial property, residential subdivisions and unit titles, but we are especially proud of our residential conveyance practice. Being able to come to our property based...
Lawhub - Law Firm
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 2017
50 people in their team
Lawhub is a boutique law firm which specialises in immigration, criminal, family, matrimonial, property, employment, and estate law. With offices in Christchurch and Hamilton, our team have been providing quality legal advice since 2017.‍At the heart of everything we do is genuine care for...
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About Landlord & Tenant Law in Christchurch, New Zealand

Landlord and tenant law in Christchurch, New Zealand, is thoroughly regulated by the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 and the subsequent amendments made to it. The act stipulates the responsibilities and rights of both the tenant and the landlord. It covers key areas like property maintenance, rent, deposit, notice periods, eviction, and dispute resolution among others.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Certain situations may arise where you will require the assistance of a lawyer. Such situations include when you face a dispute with your landlord or tenant over property damages, when an eviction process becomes necessary, when you face unjust rent increases, or when dealing with any form of discrimination. A lawyer would be able to guide you through these processes and ensure that your rights are protected.

Local Laws Overview

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, the landlord is required to maintain the property while tenants are required to keep it clean and undamaged. Rent increases can only occur once every 180 days, and the landlord must provide a 60-day notice. Security deposits are limited to four weeks’ worth of rent. A notice of 90 days is generally required for tenancy terminations, although it can be shortened due to specific reasons like unpaid rent, damage to the property, or physical assault.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do if my landlord increases the rent unjustifiably?

If you believe your landlord is increasing the rent unfairly, you can contest it with the Tenancy Tribunal. You have 20 working days from receiving the notice to lodge an application.

Can a landlord evict a tenant without any reason in Christchurch?

Under the existing laws, a landlord must provide a suitable reason for eviction and give a 90 days' notice period. Examples of justified reasons may include unpaid rent or property damage caused by the tenant.

What to do in case of property damage?

If the property incurs damages, the responsible party is typically expected to cover the repair costs. However, if the damage was caused unintentionally, the tenant might not necessarily bear the costs. In disputed situations, the Tenancy Tribunal can provide a resolution.

What happens if a landlord does not return the bond at the end of tenancy?

The tenant can apply to the Tenancy Tribunal to claim the bond if the landlord refuses to return it without any justified reason at the end of the tenancy.

What rights do tenants have in regard to property repairs and maintenance?

Landlords are obligated to maintain the property in a livable condition. Tenants have the right to request necessary repairs. If the landlord does not respond, tenants can take the matter to the Tenancy Tribunal.

Additional Resources

To get further help and information, you may refer to the resources provided by Tenancy Services, a part of New Zealand’s Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment. Also, Community Law provides free legal help throughout New Zealand including advice on tenancy issues.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance, the first step would be to seek advice either from Tenancy Services or a legal professional. Make sure to provide all pertinent details and any supporting documents related to your issue. If a resolution cannot be found amicably, consider lodging a claim with the Tenancy Tribunal.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Christchurch through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Landlord & Tenant, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Christchurch, New Zealand - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.