28 Sep 2022

Code of conduct may be introduced for property managers

1:27 pm on 28 September 2022
For rent sign in front of two-storey houses.

Photo: 123RF

Property managers could face tougher regulations as the result of a review by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.

Consumer New Zealand yesterday released an investigation into rental property agencies, which found some were collecting excessive and potentially illegal information from prospective tenants.

A ministry spokesperson said it has consulted on introducing a code of conduct for all licensed property managers, as well as qualification and training requirements.

"[These requirements look] to, among other things, improve understanding of and compliance with existing legislative requirements, including those under the Residential Tenancy Act, the Human Rights Act, and the Privacy Act," they said.

The review also looked into establishing a specific complaints and disciplinary regime to deal with "unsatisfactory conduct by property managers."

Consultation closed in April 2022.

Cabinet is expected to make a decision on the ministry's recommendations by the end of 2022.

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