Routine inspection checklist for NZ rental properties
A routine inspection checklist for New Zealand rental properties, for landlords and property managers checking in during a tenancy. Run these annually, quarterly or on your own schedule. Remember maximum frequency of inspections is once every 4 weeks, with at least 48 hours notice to tenants.
Instructions & reminders
Work through each room and photograph anything of concern. Compare against notes from the previous inspection where available.
Check the front door operates smoothly and locks securely. Note the condition of the doorbell and entry lighting.
- Front door
- Lock and hardware
- Doorbell
- Lighting
Check walls, doors and floor coverings along the hallway. Note any marks, scuffs or trip hazards.
- Walls
- Doors
- Lights and power points
- Floors and floor coverings
Check walls, doors, windows and heating. Test that all lights and power points work.
- Walls
- Doors
- Lights and power points
- Floors and floor coverings
- Windows
- Blinds and curtains
- Heat pump or fixed heater
Test all appliances, taps and lights. Check cupboards open and close properly and note any damage to benches or surfaces.
- Walls
- Doors
- Lights and power points
- Floors and floor coverings
- Windows
- Blinds and curtains
- Cupboards
- Sink and benchtop
- Oven and cooktop
- Fridge
- Rangehood
Test taps, shower pressure and toilet flush. Check for leaks, mould or damage to fittings.
- Walls
- Doors
- Lights and power points
- Floors and floor coverings
- Windows
- Blinds and curtains
- Mirror and cabinet
- Bath
- Shower
- Basin and vanity
- Toilet
- Extractor fan
Test the washing machine and check the laundry tub for damage or leaks.
- Walls
- Doors
- Lights and power points
- Floors and floor coverings
- Windows
- Blinds and curtains
- Washing machine
- Laundry tub
Check walls, doors, windows and floor coverings.
- Walls
- Doors
- Lights and power points
- Floors and floor coverings
- Windows
- Blinds and curtains
- Wardrobe
Check the handrail is secure and treads are free of damage or hazards.
- Handrail
- Treads and risers
- Lighting
Check rubbish and recycling bins, locks and insulation. Confirm smoke alarms are present and working throughout the property.
- Rubbish and recycling bins
- Locks
- Insulation
- Smoke alarms present and working
Check the garage door and remote operate correctly. Note the condition of the floor and any damage to walls.
- Walls
- Doors
- Lights and power points
- Floor
- Door and remote
Check the roof and supports are sound and free of damage.
- Roof and supports
- Floor
- Lighting
Check cladding and paintwork, gutters and downpipes. Note any signs of moisture or damage.
- Cladding and paintwork
- Gutters and downpipes
Check lawns, gardens and fencing are in reasonable condition. Confirm the letterbox is present and usable.
- Lawns and gardens
- Fencing
- Clothesline
- Letterbox
Record gas, electricity and water meter readings at the time of inspection.
- Gas meter reading
- Electricity meter reading
- Water meter reading
All private rentals must meet the five healthy homes standards under the Residential Tenancies (Healthy Homes Standards) Regulations 2019. See tenancy.govt.nz/healthy-homes.
- Fixed heating device in the main living room meeting the required heating capacity
- Ceiling and underfloor insulation meeting the insulation standard
- Openable windows or doors in every habitable room
- Extractor fans venting outside in the kitchen and every bathroom
- Efficient drainage, guttering, downpipes and drains
- Ground moisture barrier where there is an enclosed subfloor
- Gaps and holes causing unreasonable draughts blocked off
Run your Routine on your phone
Start from this template in the myInspections app, work through each area, and capture photos and video as you go.
Get a report worth signing
Share a secure link that opens in any browser, or download a polished PDF.
Ditch the paper on your next inspection.
Finish the report before you get back to the car.