rental housing

The Marlborough Sustainable Housing Trust is dedicated to housing people in charitable need with significant housing needs, particularly those associated with age, health problems or disability. The rentals are affordable, fit-for-purpose and accessible.

The Trust houses are designed to LifeMark standards. That is, they have wider doorways, level entry, level entry showers and a kitchen and laundry designed to allow people with impaired mobility to move around easily. These houses are designed for all ages and stages.

Homes are designed to have low running costs and be resilient. They are designed to be sunny in winter and have some shade in summer. They are insulated above the building requirements at the time. They also have double-glazing, solar hot water and low energy lighting.

At first, tenants will be on a periodic tenancy agreement with the Trust. After one year tenants will be able to discuss with the Trust whether they want to go on a fixed term agreement.

Landlord's responsibilities

  • Provide and maintain the premises in a reasonable condition.
  • Allow the tenant quiet enjoyment of the premises.
  • Comply with all building, health and safety standards that apply to the premises.
  • Pay rates and any insurance taken out by the landlord.
  • Not seize the tenant's goods for any reason.
  • Inform the tenant if the property is on the market for sale.
  • Not interfere with the supply of any services to the premises.
  • If the landlord is in breach of these responsibilities, the tenant(s) can apply to the Tenancy Tribunal.
  • Appoint an agent and notify the tenant and Bond Centre of the agent’s details whenever leaving New Zealand for more than 21 consecutive days.

Tenant's responsibilities

  • Pay the rent on time.
  • Keep the premises reasonably clean and tidy, and notify the landlord as soon as any repairs are needed. You may not withhold rent if you cannot get repairs done. Seek advice from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (0800 83 62 62).
  • Use the premises principally for residential purposes.
  • Pay all electricity, gas, telephone, and metered water charges.
  • Not damage or permit damage to the premises, and to inform the landlord of any damage.
  • Not disturb the neighbours or the landlord's other tenants.
  • Not alter the premises without the landlord's written consent.
  • Not use the property for any unlawful purpose.
  • Leave the property clean and tidy, and clear of rubbish and possessions at the end of the tenancy.
  • At the end of the tenancy, leave all keys and such things with the landlord. Leave all chattels supplied with the tenancy.
  • If a maximum number of occupants is stated in the tenancy agreement, not exceed that number.

Source: Residential Tenancy Agreement, Tenancy Service, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment

If you want to find out more about a Trust rental, contact the Trust direct by calling 027 399 8814 or email us via the Contact Form