Most landlords and property managers ask for the names and contact numbers of three referees, ideally previous landlords or long-term employers. You’ll also need official photo ID such as a driver licence or passport, as we’ll carry out credit checks as part of your application.

We contact your previous landlords, employers and reputable character referees, and we know which questions to ask to establish how credible each referee is. We also look at your financial and tenancy history, including information lodged online by previous landlords. Once we’re satisfied, we present suitable applicants to the owner for their decision.

You’ll usually pay a bond and rent in advance. By law a bond can be up to four weeks’ rent, and your tenancy agreement sets out exactly what’s due before you collect the keys. Your bond is lodged with Tenancy Services and is yours to claim back at the end of the tenancy if the property is left as it should be.

A fixed-term tenancy runs for an agreed period and can’t normally be ended early unless both parties agree. A periodic tenancy rolls on until you or the landlord give notice. If a fixed term ends and nobody has given notice, it automatically becomes periodic. If you’re unsure which one you’re signing, ask us before you sign.

On a periodic tenancy you need to give at least 21 days’ written notice. On a fixed-term tenancy, give us at least 21 days’ written notice before the end date if you don’t want it to roll over to periodic. If something unexpected means you need to leave early, contact us as soon as possible so we can explain your responsibilities.

At least every three months, and you’ll always receive a minimum of 48 hours’ notice before we visit. Inspections let us check on maintenance and the general condition of the property, and help us pick up small issues before they become bigger ones.

Let us know as soon as you notice a maintenance issue. In an emergency, call the Quinovic Rolleston office on 03 983 1199 and your call will be transferred to the on-duty property manager, 24/7. Please don’t arrange repairs yourself without our written approval, as you may be responsible for the cost.

We have a zero-tolerance policy on rent arrears and act on behalf of the owner as soon as rent is one day late. If you’re having trouble paying, talk to us early so we can discuss your options.

We strongly recommend it. The owner’s insurance doesn’t cover your personal belongings, and if you or a visitor accidentally damages the property you can be held responsible for repairs or replacement. Comprehensive contents insurance protects you on both counts.

Any change to the original tenancy agreement, such as a new tenant or more occupants, must be agreed to and documented by Quinovic Rolleston. If more than one adult will be living in the property, it’s a good idea for everyone to be named on the agreement.

At the start of your tenancy you’ll be given a full condition report. Read it carefully, and if there’s anything you disagree with, tell us within two weeks of moving in so it can be corrected on the record.

Leave the property and gardens clean and tidy, take final power and gas readings, and return all keys to our office before 5pm on your last day. If everything is as it should be, your bond will be returned promptly. Both your signature and ours are required for Tenancy Services to release it.