Six Top Tips for Successful Tenancy Applications

Reading Time: 2 Minutes  

Securing a rental property can be competitive, but a strong tenancy application can help you stand out from the crowd. Here are our six top tips for increasing your chances of success.

1.    Prepare All the Required Documents

A well-prepared tenancy application starts with the right documents. Be sure to have the following on hand when applying for a rental property:

• Identification: A valid passport or driver’s licence.
• Proof of Income: Recent pay slips, bank statements, or a letter from your employer.
• Rental History: Include references from previous landlords, or if you're new to renting, references from employers or colleagues.
  
  

2. Create a Good First Impression

Making a positive first impression at a property viewing is essential, much like in a job interview. Arrive on time, dress neatly, and be polite. 

3. Show Your Stability

Landlords are looking for reliable home occupiers. Show evidence of job stability, provide references, and highlight your responsibility as a tenant or employee.

4. Consider Having a Guarantor

If you’re new to renting or have limited rental history, offering a guarantor (usually a family member or close friend) can increase your chances of getting approved for a tenancy. This provides an added layer of financial security for the landlord.

Read more about the role of a guarantor.

5. Provide a Personal Cover Letter or Pet CV

A well-written cover letter can help set you apart. Use it to explain why you’re the perfect occupier for the property and to highlight any strengths in your rental history or financial stability.

If you have a pet, it can be a great idea to include a pet CV.  In good news for renters, the legislation to bring in pet bonds passed into law in December.

Pet bonds can be up to two weeks' rent, in addition to the standard four-week general bond. Only one pet bond is permitted at a time, and landlords cannot refuse tenants the right to keep pets without reasonable grounds.

6. Be Honest and Transparent

Honesty is key when submitting your application. If you have a less-than-perfect credit history or a past tenancy issue, be upfront about it. Landlords and property managers conduct thorough checks, so it’s better to be honest.

Crockers’ View

The key to a successful tenancy application lies in preparation and transparency. Creating a good first impression, proving your reliability, and having all your documents in order can make all the difference in securing a rental property. Good luck!

FAQs

1. What documents do I need for a tenancy application in New Zealand?
   To apply for a rental property, you typically need identification (passport or driver’s licence), proof of income (pay slips or bank statements), and rental history references. If you’re new to renting, a reference from an employer or colleague can help.
   
   
2. How can I make my tenancy application stand out?
   You can stand out by preparing all necessary documents in advance, making a good first impression at viewings, and providing a personal cover letter. If you have a pet, including a pet CV can also improve your chances.
   
   
3. Can a landlord refuse my tenancy application because I have a pet?
   Landlords can no longer refuse tenants the right to keep pets without reasonable grounds. However, they can request a pet bond of up to two weeks' rent in addition to the standard bond. Providing a pet CV can help demonstrate that your pet is well-behaved and suitable for the property.
   
   

Need a hand managing your rental property? Reach out to our PM Business Development Team at pm@crockers.co.nz or call for a chat on 09 623 5952.