Retirement Living Contracts.

Why Retirement Village Agreements Matter

Retirement village agreements can be complex and often have long-term financial and personal implications. It’s important to understand exactly what you’re signing, what your rights are, and how different clauses could affect your lifestyle and estate in the future.

We help you make confident, informed decisions about moving into a retirement village, ensuring you and your family understand the fine print and feel supported throughout the process.

What We Help With

We help you review and understand the legal documents that come with retirement village living, including:

• Reviewing and explaining Occupation Right Agreements (ORAs)

• Clarifying fees, termination clauses, and rights to services or property

• Advising on Powers of Attorney, Wills, and estate planning

• Supporting individuals and families to navigate each step with confidence

Our focus is on making complex legal details simple and ensuring you know exactly what your agreement means both now and in the future.

Support You Can Trust

We understand that moving into a retirement village is a major life decision, not just a legal one. Our team takes the time to explain things clearly and answer every question so you feel reassured and in control. We want you to move forward with peace of mind, knowing your interests are protected.

Where We Work

We assist clients across New Zealand, with local support through our Wellington, Lower Hutt, and Masterton offices. Whether you’re making the move yourself or helping a loved one, we make the legal side of retirement living clear and manageable.

Questions We Often Get Asked About Retirement Village Agreements

What is an Occupation Right Agreement (ORA)?

An Occupation Right Agreement is a legal contract between you and a retirement village that sets out your right to live in a unit, what you can and can’t do with it, and the fees or charges that apply. We explain these terms clearly so you know what they mean for your situation.

Why should I get legal advice before signing?

Retirement village contracts can be complicated and differ from place to place. Getting advice early helps you understand the financial and legal implications before you commit, so there are no surprises later.

Can I change my mind after signing an ORA?

Most agreements include a cooling-off period or specific conditions for withdrawal. We help you understand what options are available and any costs that may apply.

How do retirement village fees work?

Different villages have different fee structures. We help you break down entry payments, ongoing costs, and exit deductions so you can make informed decisions about affordability and value.

Can you help if I’m supporting an elderly parent?

Yes. We regularly assist families who want to make sure their loved one’s interests are protected. We explain the process in simple terms and help everyone feel confident about the decision.