Hillside Headache: Drafty, Damp Rental Near Slip Zone
A couple in Nelson has been awarded over $6,000 after their rental home failed to meet the Government’s Healthy Homes Standards. The property, located on the Port Hills near the Tāhunanui slump—a large, slow-moving landslide—was draughty, damp, cracked, and uneven due to its position in an active slip zone.
Despite the landlord's claims that the issues had been resolved, an independent inspector confirmed the house was still damaged enough to struggle to comply with legal health standards.
Tenants' Situation
Lisa-Maree and Dominic Hurdle signed a lease for the rental in March and moved out in July of the following year. They agreed to rent the property without having seen it beforehand, as they needed urgent accommodation and were working with a Ministry of Social Development housing adviser.
Tribunal adjudicator Michael Brennan stated, "It was evident straight away that there were significant issues with the house."
Tenancy Tribunal Findings
- The property was managed by a new agency, The Rent Shop, after the landlord had previously worked with another property manager.
- The Nelson City Council confirmed there were no known or reported slips directly affecting the property.
- The tenancy tribunal ruled in favor of the tenants, awarding compensation for the inadequate housing conditions.
Photo Credit
Photo / Tracy Neal
"The tenancy started under a new agency, The Rent Shop," said Michael Brennan.
Although the property neighbors a known slip area, no slips were reported on site; however, the damage from its precarious location compromised the living conditions severely.
Summary
Nelson tenants secured compensation over $6,000 after their rental near a landslide zone failed health standards, showing challenges of hillside properties despite landlord assurances.
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