Christchurch landlord ordered to pay $5700 to workmate after renting out his garage
A Christchurch landlord was ordered by the Tenancy Tribunal to pay $5700 to a former tenant after illegally renting out a garage as a residential space. The landlord admitted the garage was not consented for living, but claimed he was doing the tenant a favor.
Why it matters
Highlights legal protections for tenants and the risks of informal, non-compliant housing arrangements.
A man who admitted he knew his garage could not legally be used as a home nevertheless rented it to a workmate who was desperate for somewhere to live.
Regie Caballero said he was simply doing the man a favour after he "begged" him for a place to stay.
He charged $150 a week, including Wi-Fi and electricity, but when his wife became unhappy with the tenant's electricity use, he asked for an increase of $10 without notice.
After seeking advice from Community Law, the tenant discovered the arrangement was unlawful and applied to the Tenancy Tribunal for compensation, a rent refund and exemplary damages.
In his decision, tribunal adjudicator John Greene said it was self-evident that a car garage was unlawful residential premises.
"The landlord accepted that. The premises are not consented for residential use."
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