Upcoming deadlines are fast approaching for rental properties in New Zealand to meet the final Healthy Homes Standards. These deadlines vary depending on the tenancy start date.
Don't Miss the Healthy Homes Deadline
For new tenancies, landlords must ensure that their properties comply with the standards within 90 days of the tenancy commencement date. Meanwhile, for existing tenancies, the ultimate deadline to meet these standards is 1 July 2025.
To break it down:
- New Tenancies (starting after March 3, 2025): Must be compliant by July 1, 2025.
- Old Tenancies (starting before July 1, 2021): Must be compliant by July 1, 2025.
- Tenancies Starting on or After July 1, 2025: Must be compliant from the start.
Landlords must be aware of the mentioned timelines to ensure they are on track. Missing these deadlines may result in non-compliance, which can lead to penalties. Thorough planning and taking the necessary steps will help ensure that any rental property you own is up to standard well before the deadline mid-next year.
Landlords in New Zealand have a crucial responsibility to ensure their rental properties adhere to the Healthy Homes Standards.
These standards focus on five main areas:
1. Insulation
For insulation, the standards mandate minimum levels in the ceiling and underfloor to help maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
2. Heating
Heating requirements stipulate that main living areas must have a fixed heater capable of achieving a minimum temperature of 18°C.
3. Ventilation
For ventilation, properties need to have windows that can be opened in the living room, dining room, kitchen, and bedrooms, along with appropriately sized extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
4. Moisture Ingress and Drainage
Addressing moisture ingress and drainage involves ensuring efficient guttering, downpipes and drains to remove water from the roof and the surrounding area of the property.
5. Draught Stopping
Draught stopping entails sealing unnecessary gaps and holes that cause noticeable draughts, making homes easier to heat and keep warm.
As the final deadline approaches, it becomes increasingly important for landlords to prioritise the following:
- Conducting regular inspections.
- Identify areas that need improvement, such as insulation, heating, and ventilation, including addressing moisture ingress and drainage.
- Stay informed about any changes or updates to the standards to ensure continuous compliance.
- Maintain detailed records of inspections and any work undertaken.
- Provide tenants with updates on progress in meeting the standards.
To further support landlords Tenancy Services has a list of helpful resources and guides that are well worth reading.
In an article released earlier this year by The New Zealand Herald, there are 1,337,400 owner-occupied dwellings in New Zealand. Of these, 663,700 are rented to tenants. Investing in meeting the Healthy Homes Standards is not only about avoiding penalties—it significantly contributes to the well-being of tenants, leads to longer tenancies, and fewer vacancies, plus provides landlords with a platform to ensure their investment is well-maintained, with the potential to fetch a great sales price if they ever want to put the property on the market.
Protect Your Investment
Is your rental property Healthy Homes compliant? Avoid costly fines and tenant disputes. Let East Rental manage your property and ensure compliance with Healthy Homes standards. Contact us for expert advice and comprehensive property management solutions.
