August 2019
Reading Time: 4 Minutes
The Healthy Homes Standards, which became law on 1 July 2019, established minimum requirements for heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture control, drainage, and draught stopping in rental properties across New Zealand.
Landlords are responsible for ensuring their properties meet these standards and maintain compliance over time.
The standards were designed to help tenants keep their homes warm and dry.
All rental properties must comply with all Healthy Homes Standards by the final deadline of 1 July 2025.
While most properties have already been made Healthy Home compliant, some longer-term tenancies may still need to be brought up to standard.
Landlords must provide one or more fixed heaters capable of directly heating the main living area. The heaters must be of acceptable types and meet the minimum heating capacity required for the main living room.
Ceiling and underfloor insulation have been mandatory in all rental homes since 1 July 2019. The Healthy Homes insulation standard enhances existing regulations, meaning some insulation may need to be upgraded or replaced.
Each liveable space must have a window or door that opens to the outside and can be fixed in an open position. Additionally, kitchens and bathrooms must have extractor fans to eliminate moisture.
Rental properties must have effective drainage systems, including guttering and downpipes, to manage stormwater, surface water, and groundwater. If there is an enclosed sub-floor, a ground moisture barrier is also required.
Landlords must seal any unreasonable gaps or holes in walls, ceilings, windows, floors, and doors that create noticeable draughts.
Once your property meets the Standards, you must ensure it remains compliant.
New Healthy Homes Standards came into effect on 1st July 2021. Our Healthy Homes Hub is your one-stop-shop for useful articles, guides and on-hand advice from property experts.
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