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Question Details: I got in touch with a landlord that owns an apartment but is currently working in USA. I am unable to view the apartment but am highly interested. The landlords solicitor has prepared a tenancy agreement for me to sign. Do I need independent legal advice before signing the agreement and how much will this cost?
Filed under Tenancy | 1371 View(s)
Community Law Wellington & Hutt Valley
No, you do not necessarily need independent legal advice. Most people sign tenancy agreements without first getting legal advice. Tenants are protected by the Residential Tenancies Act, so you have many rights you cannot sign away. Learn about your rights and responsibilities here: www.dbh.govt.nz and here: www.communitylaw.org.nz.
However, most people would view the property before they rent it. Also, landlords usually use the template tenancy agreements provided here: www.dbh.govt.nz. You could ask to use that template.
If you do choose to get independent legal advice, ask your Community Law Centre about advice options near you: www.communitylaw.org.nz. They can give you advice or refer you to another lawyer. If you are going to a paid lawyer, talk to them about their charges.
Answered 5 Sep 2013. The IMPORTANT NOTICE below is part of this answer.
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