Healthy Homes

The New Zealand Healthy Homes Standards are regulations that establish minimum requirements for heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture control, and draught stopping in all rental properties. These standards aim to ensure tenants live in warm, dry, and healthy homes and came into full effect for all private rentals by 1 July 2025. 

The five standards cover: 

• Heating:

  Rental homes must have one or more fixed heaters that can heat the main living room to a specific temperature, with acceptable types and capacities defined.

• Insulation:

  Ceiling and underfloor insulation are compulsory, with requirements to meet or exceed minimum thickness or Building Code standards.

• Ventilation:

  Liveable spaces require an openable window, and kitchens and bathrooms must have an efficient extractor fan to remove moisture.

• Moisture Ingress and Drainage:

  Rental properties must have efficient drainage systems, guttering, and downpipes, and a ground moisture barrier is required in enclosed sub-floors.

• Draught Stopping:

  Landlords must block any significant gaps or holes in walls, ceilings, floors, and doors that create noticeable draughts.