Moving In? Here's What You Should Know

Moving into a new rental is an exciting time, but it can also come with a few unknowns. Whether this is your first place or you have moved before, there are some important things every tenant should understand to make the experience smooth and stress free.

If you are asking yourself, “I am moving in,  what should I know?” this guide outlines the key steps and what to expect.

1. Understanding the Tenancy Agreement

One of the first things to know when moving in is that you will need to sign a tenancy agreement. This is a legal document that sets the terms of your rental, including rent amount, payment dates, notice periods, and other obligations.

Read it carefully before signing. Once signed, it becomes legally binding and protects both you and the landlord.

2. Bond Lodgement and What It Means

A common part of moving in is paying a bond. In New Zealand, all tenancy bonds must be lodged with Tenancy Services. You should receive confirmation from them once your bond has been processed.

If you do not, ask your property manager for proof. The bond protects the landlord in case of unpaid rent or damage beyond fair wear and tear. It cannot be used for general maintenance or minor marks.

3. Moving In? Here's What You Should Know About the Condition Report

Every tenant should be given a condition report or entry inspection checklist when moving in. This document records the state of the property before you take possession, often with photos included.

Go through it carefully and check that it reflects the actual condition. If anything is missing or incorrect, notify your property manager straight away. This report will be used later to assess any changes or damage when the tenancy ends.

4. Know Who to Contact for Maintenance and Support

When you are moving in, one of the most useful things to know is who to contact if something goes wrong. Good communication starts from day one.

At RENTit, tenants deal directly with the person managing their property. Whether it is a question, a repair request, or something urgent, knowing who to reach can make a big difference.

5. Paying Rent on Time

Another important thing to know when moving in is how rent payments are handled. Rent should always be paid on time, so it helps to set up an automatic payment that clears before the due date.

If something unexpected happens and your payment will be late, talk to your property manager early. Good communication makes all the difference.

6. Reporting Repairs and Maintenance Issues

If anything in the property stops working or becomes damaged, report it as soon as possible. A good property manager relies on tenants to report issues quickly so they can be fixed before they become bigger problems.

You will also be told which tasks are your responsibility, such as mowing the lawns or changing lightbulbs, and which ones the landlord will handle.

7. Settling In and Getting Comfortable

When moving in, it is normal to take a few days to settle in and feel comfortable. Every home is different, with different layouts, appliances, and routines.

If you are unsure about anything, such as rubbish collection, parking, or how something works, just ask. A good property manager will be happy to help.

Final Thoughts on Moving In

Moving in to a rental property should be a positive and straightforward experience. With clear communication, a good tenancy agreement, and the right support, tenants can feel confident from the beginning.

At RENTit, we believe the way a tenancy starts matters. A well-managed move in sets the tone for everything that follows and helps create a better experience for everyone involved.

Moving in? Here's what every tenant should know before unpacking the first box.