Ensuring your rental property meets New Zealand’s Healthy Homes Standards by 2025 is essential to provide tenants with a warm, dry, and healthy living environment while avoiding penalties for noncompliance. Here’s a concise guide to help you get ready:

Key Requirements

Heating

Your rental must have a fixed heater capable of heating the main living area to at least 18°C. Energy-efficient options like heat pumps, wood burners, or flued gas heaters are ideal. Portable heaters won’t suffice. Tip: Upgrade to an energy-efficient heating system for better comfort and compliance.

Insulation

Ceiling and underfloor insulation must meet minimum R-values:

Ceiling: R 2.9 (Zones 1 & 2) and R 3.3 (Zone 3).
Underfloor: R 1.3 nationwide. Tip: If installed before 1 July 2016, check and update insulation as it may have settled or degraded.

Ventilation

Ensure windows can open in living areas and bedrooms, and install functioning extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove moisture. Tip: Test extractor fans regularly to ensure they meet standards and prevent mould.

Moisture and Drainage

Proper drainage systems (gutters, downpipes) and a ground moisture barrier for enclosed subfloors are required. Tip: Inspect drainage systems frequently to address issues early and avoid costly repairs.

Draught Stopping

Seal gaps and holes in windows, doors, floors, and walls to prevent cold draughts. Tip: Check for draughts on windy days and seal them for a cost-effective compliance solution.

Noncompliance Penalties

Landlords failing to meet the standards by 1 July 2025 could face fines of up to $7,200 per breach. Compliance ensures tenant health and avoids these hefty penalties.