Selling a rental property in New Zealand can be a stressful time for tenants. Suddenly your home is up for sale, and questions start flooding in: Can I stay? Do I have to let people through for viewings? What happens when the property sells?
The good news is that tenants have clear rights under New Zealand tenancy law, and with the right information, you can navigate this time confidently and calmly. Here’s everything you need to know if the property you're renting is being sold.
Yes, your landlord can sell — but your tenancy still stands
In New Zealand, landlords have the right to sell a rental property at any time. But that doesn’t mean your tenancy ends automatically.
If you're on a fixed-term tenancy, your lease continues until the end of the agreed term — regardless of who owns the property. The new owner simply steps into the landlord’s role under the same agreement.
If you’re on a periodic tenancy, the landlord can sell the property, but they can’t just ask you to leave. To end your tenancy, they must provide at least 90 days’ written notice, and only if the sale includes a condition that the property must be handed over empty (known as vacant possession).
So, no — you can’t be forced out overnight. The rules are designed to protect your right to stay in your home.
Viewings and open homes: what you need to know
Selling usually involves viewings and open homes, and as a tenant, this is where things can feel intrusive. But there are rules to ensure it's handled fairly.
Your landlord has the right to show the property to prospective buyers, but they must:
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Give you at least 48 hours’ written notice before each viewing
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Stick to reasonable times — between 8am and 7pm only
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Limit viewings to two per week if you can't agree on more
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Respect your right to be there during viewings if you choose
You’re expected to keep the property “reasonably clean” and make reasonable efforts to agree on times. If you're feeling overwhelmed, suggest a regular schedule with your property manager — this can reduce disruptions and help everyone plan ahead.
Are there any benefits to cooperating?
While it’s not always convenient to have people walking through your home, some landlords offer small incentives to make things easier — especially if they’re relying on your support to present the property well.
You might be offered:
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A temporary rent reduction
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A contribution toward moving costs if you agree to leave early
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Help with cleaning or tidying before viewings
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A thoughtful thank-you gift — like vouchers or a movie pass
It’s always worth having a friendly chat with your landlord to see what’s possible.
What about photos, signs and auctions?
Marketing a property for sale often involves photos and advertising — but your privacy matters.
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Exterior photos don’t need your consent, but interior photos do, especially if your belongings are visible. You can ask to review or approve any interior photos before they’re published.
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A ‘For Sale’ sign can’t be placed on the property without your permission.
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On-site auctions also require your consent — they cannot be held at the property unless you agree.
If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with any part of the marketing process, raise it with your landlord early on.
Can I choose to move out early?
Yes — in some cases.
If you’re on a periodic tenancy, you can end it at any time by giving 28 days’ written notice. If you’re on a fixed-term tenancy, you’ll need to reach a mutual agreement with your landlord to end the tenancy early.
Sometimes landlords are open to this, especially if they want to prepare the property for sale with staging or renovations. Just make sure any agreement is confirmed in writing.
Will I have to move out when it sells?
Not necessarily. If your tenancy hasn’t ended, it simply transfers to the new owner. They take over all the responsibilities of the previous landlord, including collecting rent and maintaining the property.
However, if the property is sold with vacant possession, and you’re on a periodic tenancy, your landlord can issue a 90-day termination notice. For fixed-term tenants, you can only be asked to leave once the term ends — and only if the sale contract requires the home to be empty.
What happens to my bond?
Your bond remains safe throughout the process. It stays lodged with Tenancy Services, and the only change is that the new owner becomes the landlord on record. The previous and new landlords are both responsible for notifying Tenancy Services of the ownership change.
When your tenancy ends — whenever that may be — the bond refund or any deductions are handled as usual.
A few tips to help you through
Selling a tenanted property doesn’t need to be a stressful experience. A bit of planning, open communication, and understanding your rights can go a long way. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
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Keep records of all notices and agreements
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Tidy the property before viewings to reduce stress and keep things positive
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Talk openly with your landlord or property manager about concerns or preferences
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Know your rights — the Residential Tenancies Act is there to protect you
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Reach out for advice if needed — Tenancy Services and local tenant groups can help
Having your home listed for sale can feel unsettling, but you don’t have to go through it blindly. With the right information and good communication, tenants and landlords can work together to ensure the process is as smooth and respectful as possible.
For more information or support, visit tenancy.govt.nz or contact your property manager directly.
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