How much can a landlord charge for a rental bond under New Zealand law?
The landlord does not have to ask for a bond, but can legally charge up to the equivalent of 4 weeks’ rent as bond. The landlord will be able to claim some or all of the bond money at the end of the tenancy if (i) there is damage done by the tenant, except for normal wear and tear; (ii) rent is left unpaid; (iii) the premises is left dirty or property is left behind; (iv) the tenant fails to fulfil any other legal obligation and the landlord suffers some loss as a result.
