The Healthy Homes Standards became law on 1 July 2019. The legislation introduced minimum standards for heating, ventilation, insulation, draught stopping, and moisture ingress and drainage. These standards aim to improve the quality of rental properties and ensure they are maintained to be warm and dry. By 1 July 2024, all private rental homes in New Zealand must comply with the Healthy Homes Standards.
Although improving the standard of rental properties may sound like a straightforward task, there continue to be misconceptions surrounding compliance.
Many presume that new builds are built to these standards already, as they are code compliant. However, the Healthy Homes rules are different; all properties should be assessed to ensure they comply with the new standards as many new builds, while being passed by council, have fallen short of Healthy Homes standards.
Many property owners believe the heating in their property is up to standard without undergoing a formal assessment. The Healthy Homes Standards have specific requirements, and it is always better to have this confirmed. You should use the Tenancy Services Heating Assessment Tool to get some insights into your particular property.
Not always. Heat pump installers may not be aware of the specific Healthy Homes requirements. As a rental property owner, the best thing you can do is use the Heating Assessment Tool and reach out to a professional property manager. It’s always best to ask your installer to put anything to do with compliance in writing as written evidence is a requirement for Healthy Homes compliance.
If a property is not compliant with the Healthy Homes Standards, anyone living in a rental property has the right to take the matter to the Tenancy Tribunal, which could result in the landlord being fined up to $7,200
Individuals may be more likely to leave a tenancy due to non-compliance. Once they leave, the property must meet the requirements within 90 days of a new tenancy commencing. This could put significant stress on finances, with income lost and money paid out on getting compliant in a hurry.
A good property manager can tell you if quotes are reasonable when compared with the current market and industry standards.
Property managers can assist you in ensuring work is done promptly. This is essential when you’re dealing with a 90-day compliance timeframe.
Rana recalls a client who enlisted his own contractor to complete the work. These contractors did not have the most up-to-date requirements, which ultimately resulted in the work being done twice. A good property manager will know the Healthy Homes Standards in detail. Consulting with a professional ensures you will get it right the first time.
If you have any questions about the Healthy Homes Standards and what this means for you, get in touch with your local Quinovic office. We’re a nationwide team of property management experts and have managed over 100,000 tenancies since 1988. No matter how big or small your question is, we’ll be happy to help. Ask Quinovic today.
