When it comes to renting out a shared living space, having a flatmate agreement in place can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts between tenants. A flatmate agreement serves as a legal agreement between two or more tenants sharing a rental property, outlining the terms and conditions of their tenancy and responsibilities they have toward the property and each other.
In New Zealand, there are several templates available that you can use to create a flatmate agreement. These templates provide a basic structure for outlining the terms and conditions of the tenancy agreement, and you can customize them to fit your specific needs. Here are some key elements that you should include when drafting a flatmate agreement using a template:
1. Tenancy details: This section should include the address of the rental property, the names of all tenants, and the start and end date of the tenancy agreement.
2. Rent and bills: Specify the rent amount, how the rent will be split between tenants if they are not all paying the same amount, and who will pay for which utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet, etc.).
3. Security deposit: Specify the amount of the security deposit, how it will be divided between tenants, and the conditions under which it will be returned at the end of the tenancy.
4. Maintenance and repairs: Outline the responsibilities of each tenant when it comes to maintaining and repairing the rental property. This should include specific details about cleaning, garbage disposal, and any other tasks that tenants are expected to perform.
5. House rules: Specify any rules that all tenants must follow, such as quiet hours or smoking restrictions. You can also outline guidelines for guests, pets, and the use of shared spaces like the kitchen and bathroom.
6. Termination: Specify the conditions under which either party can terminate the tenancy agreement, such as a breach of contract or non-payment of rent. This should also include details about the notice period required before termination.
Using a flatmate agreement template can help ensure that you cover all the necessary elements of a tenancy agreement and avoid any disputes between tenants. Make sure that all tenants read and sign the agreement before moving in, and keep a copy for your records. Remember that a flatmate agreement is a binding legal document, so it is important to take the time to draft it carefully and ensure that all tenants understand its contents before signing.