Purchasing a House? We have your pre-settlement checklist
Before settlement, do a thorough inspection and checklist: test lights, doors and locks, taps and hot water, vents, drainage and fencing. Check all chattels listed in the agreement are present and working. Confirm any agreed repairs are completed, and clear belongings or rubbish before settlement to avoid issues later.
Fences - Who's Responsible?
We are in the middle of a construction boom, there are many new subdivisions being opened up and, well, as a rural land owner you often have quite extensive boundaries. Fencing them can be expensive. What are the actual legal requirements for a fence? Who contributes? Generally, if you want to build a fence on a common boundary with your neighbour, or upgrade an existing one, you can expect the neighbour to go halves on the bill for an "adequate" fence. That is, one that is
COVID-19, lockdown and your commercial lease - What's the go?
As of midnight, on Wednesday 25th March, an unprecedented number of NZ businesses were not able to access their business premises due to Government restrictions to prevent the spread of Covid-19. If your lease is on the current (sixth) edition of the Auckland District Law Society (ADLS) form of lease, it is likely to contain a “no access” clause allowing for a reduction in rent where there is an emergency and the tenant can’t gain access to the premises to fully conduct the
What does “vacant possession” really mean?
Vacant possession means the property is handed over free from tenants, occupants and personal items not included in the sale. Vendors must give tenants proper notice and remove goods and rubbish before settlement. If vacant possession isn’t provided, settlement can be delayed and buyers may take action under the agreement.