Understanding Healthy Homes Assessments
Your Guide to Rental Compliance in New Zealand
Countdown to Compliance.
As a property owner or investor in New Zealand, understanding and implementing Healthy Homes standards is vital for your investment’s success.
With the deadline for compliance approaching on 1st July 2025, now is the time to ensure your properties meet these crucial standards.
What Are the Healthy Homes Standards?
The Healthy Homes Standards are designed to ensure that rental properties provide safe and healthy living environments. They focus on five key areas:
1. Heating
A healthy home should include a reliable heating source capable of maintaining the living room at a minimum of 18°C. This ensures tenant comfort while also helping to lower energy expenses. Landlords are responsible for providing appropriate fixed heaters that effectively heat the main living area, meeting the necessary heating capacity.
2. Insulation
Proper insulation is crucial for keeping indoor temperatures comfortable. Homes need to meet specific insulation standards to ensure that roofs and floors are effectively insulated against heat loss. Since July 1, 2019, ceiling and underfloor insulation have been mandatory in all rental properties, with possible upgrades required under the Healthy Homes standard.
3. Ventilation
Good ventilation is vital to reduce moisture buildup and maintain air quality. Properties should have adequate windows that can open, as well as extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove excess moisture.
4. Moisture and Drainage
Rental properties require effective drainage systems for water removal and moisture barriers in enclosed sub-floor areas. Proper moisture management is essential to prevent mold and dampness. Properties must have adequate drainage and be free from significant leaks or moisture to ensure a healthy living environment.
5. Draught Stopping
Sealing draughts is vital for maintaining warmth and energy efficiency in homes. Landlords must ensure that gaps and holes in walls, ceilings, and floors are properly sealed to minimize heat loss. This includes sealing openings in windows, skylights, doors, and unused fireplaces or chimneys to prevent draughts.
Why Compliance Matters.
Attract Quality Tenants: Certified properties appeal to tenants looking for safe, healthy living conditions, boosting satisfaction and retention.
Legal Peace of Mind: Ensuring compliance with Healthy Homes standards helps avoid penalties and disputes, making you a responsible landlord.
Long-Term Investment: Meeting these standards protects your investment and can enhance property value.
Reduced Turnover: Happy tenants are likely to stay longer, reducing your turnover and vacancy rates.
Act Now: Deadline Approaching.
With the compliance deadline of 1st July 2025 fast approaching, it’s crucial to get your property Healthy Homes certified.
The sooner you start, the better prepared you’ll be to meet the standards and attract quality tenants.
For more information on how to ensure your property complies with Healthy Homes standards, contact your property manager today. Invest wisely—invest in a Healthy Home!