Renting out your house or room for a few days?

If you get money from renting out your house, a room, a caravan or a sleep-out for any time at all - it's income.

This means you must file a tax return as you may have tax to pay - you may even get a refund. It depends on your other income (e.g salary or wages) and how much tax you've paid in the year.

Getting your taxes right is easy. Here’s what you need to know:

• you must include the income on an Individual tax return (IR3). This can be filed online - for most people it’s due 7 July
• you can claim expenses for the time you rented out the space - such as rates, insurance, cleaning and advertising
• keep clear records to confirm all income and expenses.

Tools to help you get it right

• Our video "Tax on property rental income" covers different situations for boarders, flatmates, tenants and holiday homes.
• The Rental income (IR264) guide explains your tax obligations on rental income.
• Learn more about residential rental income
• Tax rules for holiday homes (IR1021)
• If you need more help, we recommend you contact a tax advisor.

Local Councils

• Remember to check out your local council rules on short-term accommodation
• Some councils require you to register properties which are rented out, eg Queenstown Lakes District Council