With six strategically located offices across the top of the South Island, Summit combines over 30 years of local expertise with comprehensive property management solutions and specialised real estate services tailored to our unique regional market.
Our experienced team of sales professionals and property managers are supported by skilled managers who ensure every client receives personalised, results-driven service.
As the Top of the South's market share leader, we connect more buyers, sellers, landlords, and tenants than any other agency giving our clients a clear advantage.
Article excerpt from the Nelson Mail. Nina Hindmarsh • Reporter. Image supplied by Christel Yardley • Waikato Times
Recent Tenancy Tribunal decisions in Tākaka and Motueka have highlighted a major issue for landlords: a mismatch between insurance meth contamination standards and tenancy law.
At present, most insurers still require remediation if meth residue exceeds 1.5 micrograms per 100cm², a standard introduced in 2017. However, the Tenancy Tribunal, Kāinga Ora and the Real Estate Authority apply a much higher threshold of 15 micrograms, based on scientific advice from Sir Peter Gluckman.
This gap has real financial consequences. In two Tasman cases, landlords were required by insurers to clean properties and pay $2,500 excesses, but the Tribunal ruled tenants were not liable, as the properties were not legally considered contaminated under tenancy law.
In one Motueka case managed by Summit Property Management, initial testing suggested elevated levels, but room-by-room testing showed no area exceeded the legal 15mcg limit. Despite this, the landlord was still unable to recover the insurance excess.
The result? Confusion, unnecessary remediation, and landlords left out of pocket.
General manager Stewart Henry said the split standards were creating confusion.
“Owners look at that and think, ‘it’s contamination’, because that’s what the insurance company and tester are telling them,” he said.
Henry said low-level residue could often be dealt with using simple cleaning.
“But some owners are obviously thinking, well, it’s a contamination because it’s above the 1.5 [micrograms] which is what the meth tester and the insurance company are telling us.”
He said the uncertainty had made property management “a landmine”.
“Once the new rules come in, it’ll mean far fewer unnecessary claims and far less confusion.
What’s changing
The Government has confirmed new regulations coming in 2026, which will:
Formally adopt the 15mcg threshold into law Classify homes above 30mcg as uninhabitable Reduce unnecessary testing, claims, and costly clean-ups Bring clarity and consistency for landlords, tenants, insurers and property managersUntil then, landlords are navigating a tricky landscape where insurance requirements and legal obligations don’t always align.
Our adviceLow-level meth residue can often be addressed through targeted cleaning, not full remediation. Professional property management is critical to:
Interpret test results correctly Liaise with insurers and testing companies Protect landlord interests while ensuring tenant safetyAt Summit Property Management, we stay across regulatory changes so our landlords don’t have to—and we’ll be ready well before the new rules take effect.
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This week, the Summit Property Management team had the pleasure of recognising two remarkable students from Waimea College’s Special Education Department. Each term, we present Achievement Awards to acknowledge dedication, progress, and personal success — and Term 4 was no exception.
Congratulations to Seqouia-Marie Hill and Hamish Wilson (pictured), the well-deserved recipients of this term’s awards. Both students have shown outstanding commitment to their learning and continue to inspire those around them.
We’re proud to support our local schools and celebrate the achievements of young people in our community.
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Searching for a rental home when you have pets can sometimes feel daunting — but the good news is that with the right preparation and a proactive approach, you can greatly increase your chances of securing a property that suits both you and your furry companion. Here’s how to put your best foot (and paw) forward.
Before You ApplyBefore submitting any applications, make sure the property is genuinely suitable for your pet. Consider:
Space and layout: Is there enough room for your pet to live comfortably?Fencing and security: Will outdoor areas keep your pet safe and contained?Rules and restrictions: Check subdivision or body corporate bylaws to ensure your pet type is permitted.Daily needs: Think about access to outdoor areas, exercise spaces, and safe environments.A Pet Profile helps landlords feel confident about approving your pet. Include:
Your pet’s name, age, breed, and personalityDetails about training, such as obedience or house trainingVaccination and flea treatment historyRegistration or microchipping informationA recent, friendly photoThis small step goes a long way in showing responsibility and transparency.
Provide Rental ReferencesIf you’ve rented before with your pet, ask your previous landlord or property manager to confirm that:
Your pet was well behavedYour pet did not cause damageThere were no noise or nuisance issuesPositive references can significantly strengthen your application.
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