The rental market in New Zealand can sometimes feel like a maze of regulations, and as a landlord, you’re the one with the flashlight. It goes without saying that the Healthy Homes Standards, introduced to create safer, warmer, and drier rental homes across the country, is a crucial part of this journey. But before you break a sweat thinking about compliance, fear not—this guide unpacks the essentials, offering practical advice and a few landlord-friendly hacks to keep your properties up to snuff without any of the stress.
What are The Healthy Homes Standards?
Introduced by the government in 2019, the Healthy Homes Standards set minimum requirements for rental properties in New Zealand. These standards aim to improve the health and well-being of tenants, reduce hospitalisations from illnesses linked to poor housing, and ensure all rentals are, quite simply, fit for human habitation.
No one wants to live in an indoor rainforest or a house that could double as a meat locker during winter which is why the standards focus on five key areas of comfort:
1. Heating
The living room must have a fixed heater that can maintain a temperature of at least 18°C, regardless of how cold it is outside. Portable LPG heaters or unflued gas heaters won’t make the cut—they create excess moisture and pose safety risks. Fixed heat pumps, efficient wood burners, or electric heaters with the right heating capacity for the room size are all acceptable. To determine the required heating capacity for your rental’s main living area, check out the Heating Assessment Tool.
2. Insulation
Insulation requirements have been around for a while, but the Healthy Homes Standards raise the bar. Ceiling and underfloor insulation must meet minimum R-values (thermal resistance) based on your region. Existing insulation needs to be in good condition—if it’s degraded or doesn’t meet the standards, you’ll have to upgrade it. This ensures better heat retention, which is key to creating a warm home and cutting energy bills. For detailed guidance on R-values and regional requirements, visit the Tenancy Services Insulation Standard.
3. Ventilation
Dampness can be a persistent issue, leading to mould and health problems. To tackle this, rental properties must have at least one openable window or door in every living room, bedroom, dining room, and kitchen. Additionally, extractor fans are mandatory in kitchens and bathrooms—they must vent to the outside and meet minimum size and performance standards. This reduces moisture build-up and helps maintain air quality. More specifics are available on the Ventilation Standard page.
4. Moisture Ingress and Drainage
Keeping water out of a rental property is as important as keeping warmth in. The Healthy Homes Standards require effective drainage systems, including working gutters, downpipes, and drainage to remove stormwater, surface water, and groundwater. Properties with enclosed subfloor spaces also need a ground moisture barrier if reasonably practicable. These measures prevent dampness and reduce the risk of mould growth. Learn more about what’s needed at the Moisture Ingress and Drainage Standard.
5. Draught Stopping
Small gaps in windows, doors, walls, and floors may seem minor, but they can let in a surprising amount of cold air, making heating inefficient. The standards require landlords to block any unreasonable gaps or holes that cause noticeable draughts. Unused fireplaces and chimneys must be blocked unless a tenant asks otherwise. This simple measure helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature and reduces heating costs. For full details, visit the Draught Stopping Standard.
Compliance Deadlines and Requirements
By now, most landlords will be well aware of the compliance dates. Private landlords were required to comply within 90 days of any new or renewed tenancy after 1 July 2021, with all properties needing to comply by 1 July 2025.
Healthy Homes Compliance Checklist
To keep things simple, here’s a quick maintenance checklist for compliance:
- Install a fixed heater in the living room that meets the standard’s heating capacity.
- Ensure ceiling and underfloor insulation meets the required R-values.
- Install compliant extractor fans in the kitchen and bathroom.
- Confirm windows are openable and allow for adequate ventilation.
- Check that all drainage systems are functional and moisture ingress measures are in place.
- Seal gaps and cracks causing draughts.
Simple, right? Okay, maybe not quite—but this is where professional support can come in handy.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
- DIY Missteps: Tempted to DIY your way to compliance? While it’s commendable, going rogue without understanding the exact standards may lead to non-compliance. Bringing in professionals to assess and upgrade heating, insulation, or ventilation systems can be a worthwhile investment.
- Incorrect Measurements: Installing undersized extractor fans or heaters that don’t meet the required kilowatt capacity is a common error. Use the Tenancy Services Heating Assessment Tool to get the calculations right.
- Record-Keeping Neglect: Documentation is king. Keep records of all compliance work completed, receipts for installations, and compliance certificates. It’s your safety net if a dispute arises.
Compliance Can Be a Breeze with the Right Partner
Healthy Homes compliance may sound like a lot of work, but it’s a vital part of ensuring New Zealanders live in healthier, safer rental homes. And when you look at it through the lens of preserving property value and maintaining happy tenancies, it’s a win-win. No one enjoys the thought of battling endless tenant complaints, hefty fines, or potential Tribunal hearings. Instead, why not take the smarter path?
At The Rent Shop, we’re here to help you navigate the intricacies of the Healthy Homes Standards. Whether you need a property inspection, advice on meeting compliance requirements, or simply a partner you can rely on to manage your property with care, we’ve got you covered. Reach out today to see how we can make compliance stress-free and keep your tenants smiling
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