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Odour in Tenancy: Managing Cooking Smells in New Zealand Rental Properties

Cooking is a part of everyday life, but in New Zealand rental properties, strong cooking odours,especially from spices, curries, or fried food, can sometimes become a source of conflict between tenants and landlords. While odours are generally not considered a major problem unless they become excessive or impact the enjoyment of the property, it’s important for both parties to understand their rights and responsibilities.

Understanding Tenancy Rights Around Cooking Odours

Tenant’s Right to Quiet Enjoyment

Under the Residential Tenancies Act , tenants in New Zealand are entitled to quiet enjoyment of the property. This includes the freedom to cook meals of their choice,even if it leads to lingering smells. Tenants cannot be unreasonably restricted from preparing food as part of their lifestyle or culture.

Reasonable Cleanliness Expectations

Tenants are expected to keep the property in a reasonably clean and tidy condition . However, this does not mean eliminating all cooking smells . Odours that occur from everyday cooking are generally considered part of normal living.

Tips for Minimizing Cooking Odours

• Use extractor fans or range hoods while cooking.
• Open windows and doors to promote airflow.
• Clean stovetops and benches regularly to prevent grease buildup.
• Simmer vinegar or lemon water after cooking strong-smelling meals.
• Use natural deodorisers like baking soda or activated charcoal in problem areas.

Landlord's Role in Managing Odours

Accepting Reasonable Wear and Tear

Landlords must accept that some cooking odours are part of normal wear and tear . Attempting to prohibit certain types of cooking or inserting odour-restriction clauses in tenancy agreements is usually unenforceable .

Proactive Odour Management

Landlords who wish to maintain a neutral-smelling property can take preventive measures , such as:

• Installing effective extractor fans or range hoods .
• Using odour-resistant paint or surfaces during renovations.
• Providing a deep cleaning service between tenancies.
• Encouraging tenants to report poor ventilation or issues with dampness.

Efficient kitchen ventilation also helps protect valuable paintwork from moisture, grease, and odour-related damage.

When Cooking Smells Become a Problem

Cooking odours generally aren’t grounds for a dispute unless they:

• Persistently affect neighbouring tenants in multi-unit dwellings.
• Indicate unclean living conditions (e.g. mould, grease buildup).
• Contribute to property damage (e.g. smoke stains or embedded smells).

Solutions for Persistent Odour Issues

• Improved ventilation systems can make a big difference.
• Encourage professional cleaning of carpets, curtains, and filters during inspections or between tenancies.
• Open communication between tenant and landlord can often resolve minor issues before they escalate.
• In apartment buildings, rangehoods can be connected to the central ventilation system for more effective odour extraction.

Final Thoughts: Balance and Communication Are Key

In summary, odours from cooking are a normal part of tenancy life , especially in a culturally diverse country like New Zealand. Both landlords and tenants should approach the issue with understanding, open communication, and practical solutions .

Whether you're a property manager looking to maintain rental value or a tenant trying to enjoy your space, addressing odours comes down to ventilation, cleanliness, and mutual respect .

Need Help Neutralising Odours?

At Service King, we cater for odour neutralisation services for rental properties across Auckland. Whether you're preparing for a new tenant or addressing persistent smells, we offer eco-friendly solutions that leave properties smelling fresh and clean.

👉 Contact us today to learn more about our professional odour removal services.