You must notify us of any change to the following bond record details within 10 working days:

• when the landlord, property manager or tenant of a property changes and this impacts the bond record, or
• when the ‘address for service’ changes.

We can only refund a bond to those listed in our system. Updating the bond record if a tenant or landlord changes during the tenancy makes it easier to sort out any problems later.

This process will also need to be completed if you legally change your name.

When the tenant changes

If there is a change of tenant during a tenancy, there are 2 forms that must be completed if they have contributed to the bond. Both forms need to be signed by the landlord and the respective tenant (departing or new tenant).

If a tenant who contributed to the bond moves out, but the tenancy will continue, arrangements for the refund of their share of the bond should be agreed between the tenants and the landlord. Typically, the remaining or new tenant(s) choose to pay the departing tenant their share of the bond directly. They should also ensure that the change of tenant forms are completed at that time.

There are 2 forms that must be filled and signed if there is a change of tenant that impacts the bond record.

Change of tenant form - new tenant [PDF, 623 KB]

Change of tenant form - departing tenant [PDF, 479 KB]

If there is more than 1 new tenant, all tenants can be named in the new tenant form. If there is more than 1 departing tenant, each tenant needs to complete a separate departing tenant form.

If all existing tenants are leaving, you cannot use a change of tenant form and need to complete a bond refund form instead. Landlords must lodge a new bond digitally when a new tenancy starts.

Refunding a bond

When the landlord or property manager changes

If a landlord changes, you will need to complete the relevant form, depending on whether it’s a permanent or temporary change.

Find out more on Change of landlord 

When your address for service changes

An address for service is an address where landlords or tenants receive notices and other documents about the tenancy.

If your address for service changes during the tenancy, you will need to let us know within 10 working days.

You can let us know about the change by:

• emailing us your new address for service. Your email address must match the one we have on file.
• sending us a signed letter. Your signature needs to match what was on your lodgement form.

More information on the address for service

What happens if details are not up to date

If the bond records haven’t been kept up to date, there may be delays when it’s time to refund the bond.

Preventing problems with bonds

Where to send the completed forms

Once the forms have been completed and signed by all necessary parties, please submit the forms (within 10 working days) by:

• scanning and emailing to bonds@tenancy.govt.nz, or
  • if your email has been received, you'll get an automatic reply email from us. If you don't receive an auto reply from us, please check you have used the correct email address and resend your email.
• posting to Tenancy Services, PO Box 50445, Porirua 5240