If you’re a landlord in New Zealand, there’s a big date coming up — 1 July 2025. That’s the final deadline for all rental properties to meet the Healthy Homes Standards.
Whether you’ve got one rental or a small portfolio, this isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about creating warmer, drier homes that protect your investment and keep your tenants healthy and happy.
Not sure what the standards are, or whether your place is up to scratch? No worries — we’ve broken it down for you below.
So… What Are the Healthy Homes Standards?
Introduced back in 2019, the Healthy Homes Standards set out minimum requirements for rental homes across five key areas:
1. Heating
Landlords must provide a fixed heating source in the main living room that can warm the space to at least 18°C.
No, that $40 fan heater won’t cut it. Think heat pumps or inbuilt wood burners — and yes, they need to meet capacity requirements for the room size.
2. Insulation
Ceiling and underfloor insulation has been compulsory since July 2019, but this standard now goes a step further. Some existing insulation may need topping up or replacing to meet the latest R-values.
3. Ventilation
To keep moisture and mould at bay, each habitable room needs a window or door that opens to the outside.
Kitchens and bathrooms must also have an extractor fan to remove steam and moisture where it’s most common.
4. Moisture Ingress & Drainage
Your property must have proper drainage — this means working spouting, downpipes and stormwater systems.
If the house has an enclosed subfloor, you’ll also need a ground moisture barrier to prevent dampness from rising into the home.
5. Draught Stopping
Landlords need to block any noticeable draughts caused by gaps or holes in walls, ceilings, windows, doors and floors.
If cold air is sneaking in, it’s time to get sealing.
When Do You Need to Comply?
When Do You Need to Comply?By 1 July 2025, every rental property must be fully compliant.
But depending on the tenancy type or when it was signed/renewed, your property might already be required to meet the standards. Don’t assume you’ve got until 2025 — check your specific deadlines using Tenancy Services’ decision tool.
Why Bother? (Apart from the Legal Bit)
Why Bother? (Apart from the Legal Bit)Over 600,000 Kiwis rent, and research shows rental properties are often colder, damper, and generally lower quality than owner-occupied homes. That’s not just a comfort issue — it’s a health one.
Colder homes are linked to asthma, cardiovascular conditions, and higher hospitalisation rates — especially for kids and older adults.
But here’s the upside for landlords:
- Warm, dry homes = fewer maintenance issues (no mould or warped materials)
- Healthier tenants = longer tenancies and less turnover
- A compliant property = less stress and risk of fines
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?Landlords who don’t meet the Healthy Homes Standards are in breach of the Residential Tenancies Act 1986. This could mean:
- Financial penalties
- Being ordered to complete work and refund rent
- $500 fines just for failing to include a compliance statement in the tenancy agreement
Tenants can also request evidence of compliance, and landlords are legally required to provide it within 21 days.
What You Need to Keep On File
What You Need to Keep On FileLandlords must keep all records and documentation that prove they meet the standards — and be ready to provide them if asked by the Tenancy Tribunal or MBIE.
That might include:
- Insulation certificates
- Heating capacity reports
- Photos of extractor fans
- Invoices from contractors
- Ground moisture barrier documentation
Feeling Overwhelmed? We Can Help
Feeling Overwhelmed? We Can HelpWhether you’re halfway there or starting from scratch, RB Thomas Ltd can help you:
- Assess what needs doing
- Quote and complete the upgrades
- Ensure full compliance by the deadline
We’re not just builders — we’re problem solvers. From draught-stopping to full insulation fit-outs, we can help you bring your property up to spec without breaking the bank.
Let’s Get You Compliant
Let’s Get You CompliantIf you’re ready to upgrade your rental (or just need advice), let’s talk. We’ll help you:
- Understand the rules
- Plan the work
- Get it done — properly, efficiently, and to code
Contact the RB Thomas team today
No pressure. Just straight-up advice and solid workmanship
