Quick read
The NZPIF has submitted feedback opposing the Residential Tenancies (Registration of Boarding House Landlords) Amendment Bill in its current form.
While we support safe, healthy housing outcomes for tenants, we believe the proposed registration system focuses on creating more visibility rather than addressing the real issue: consistent, proactive enforcement of the standards and powers that already exist.
Our concern is that a new registration regime could add significant costs and complexity, while potentially reducing the supply of boarding house accommodation without delivering better outcomes for vulnerable tenants.
Read the full NZPIF submission here.
NZPIF position: focus on enforcement, not more administration
The Bill proposes a national registration system for boarding house landlords with the aim of improving oversight and accountability.
The NZPIF believes the priority should instead be strengthening enforcement of existing rules.
There are already significant powers available through agencies including Councils, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, the Tenancy Tribunal, and the Tenancy Compliance and Investigations Team (TCIT). The issue is not a lack of regulation, but that enforcement has often been reactive and complaint-driven rather than proactive.
A new registration system risks adding another layer of administration without addressing the underlying problems.
Key concerns raised by NZPIF
Compliance costs and administration
The proposed register is expected to cost an estimated $2–3 million each year.
NZPIF believes this funding would be better directed towards practical compliance work, such as supporting 15–20 additional inspectors who can visit properties, identify issues, and work directly towards improving standards.
Impact on vulnerable tenants
Boarding houses often provide accommodation for people with complex needs, including mental health challenges, addiction issues, or behavioural difficulties.
NZPIF is concerned that increased regulatory burdens may cause some operators to leave the sector or become more selective about tenants. This could reduce available accommodation and place additional pressure on emergency housing services.
Safety concerns for operators
The NZPIF also raised concerns about publicly listing boarding house operators on a register.
Many operators deal with tenants experiencing difficult circumstances, including periods of crisis. A publicly available register could create unnecessary personal safety risks.
If a register proceeds, NZPIF believes access should be limited to relevant agencies rather than being publicly available.
NZPIF recommendations
Rather than introducing the Bill as currently drafted, NZPIF recommends:
A targeted enforcement approach
Use TCIT-led intelligence and information sharing to identify high-risk properties and repeat offenders, while avoiding unnecessary burdens on responsible operators.
Better agency coordination
Strengthen information sharing between agencies, including the Ministry of Social Development, which provides accommodation payments, so that serious compliance issues can be identified and addressed.
A light-touch registry if required
If registration is introduced, it should be limited to essential information only, such as:
- property address
- owner identity and contact details
- confirmation that the property operates as a boarding house
This would provide basic visibility without creating unnecessary costs and complexity.
NZPIF’s view is that improving tenant outcomes requires effective enforcement, targeted action, and better coordination, rather than simply adding another layer of regulation.