Is Your Rental Healthy Homes Compliant?

As of 1 July 2025, all private rental properties in New Zealand are legally required to meet the Healthy Homes Standards. If you’re a landlord and haven’t confirmed your property’s compliance, now is the time to act.

The good news? There’s still a clear path to get on track. A professional Healthy Homes Assessment can help you identify any areas needing attention so you can avoid fines and keep tenants safe and comfortable.

What Are the Healthy Homes Standards?

The standards cover five key areas that directly impact the comfort and wellbeing of tenants:

• Heating: A fixed heating device in the main living room that can warm the space to at least 18°C.
• Insulation: Ceiling and underfloor insulation that meets current regulations.
• Ventilation: Openable windows in living spaces and extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Moisture & Drainage: Efficient drainage systems and ground moisture barriers where required.
• Draught Stopping: No unnecessary gaps or holes that cause noticeable draughts.

These standards aim to ensure rental homes are warm, dry, and healthy to live in year-round.

What Does a Healthy Homes Assessment Involve?

A Healthy Homes Assessment is a detailed inspection of your rental property to determine if it meets the required standards.

The assessment typically includes:

• A room-by-room check of insulation, heating, ventilation, and more.
• Moisture and drainage inspections inside and around the property.
• Identification of any areas that do not meet current regulations.
• A detailed report that outlines what is compliant and what needs fixing.
• A 13A Compliance Statement (required for all new or renewed tenancies).

Assessments are carried out by trained professionals and help ensure you’re ticking every legal box.

Why Compliance Matters

Failing to comply can result in penalties, disputes, or even tribunal action. More importantly, compliance gives peace of mind to both you and your tenants. A warm, dry, healthy home is more attractive to long-term tenants and protects your investment over time.

Tip: Don’t Treat It as a One-Off

While the 1 July 2025 deadline has passed, ongoing compliance is still essential. Landlords must continue to provide updated Compliance Statements whenever a new tenancy starts or is renewed. A regular check every 12–24 months is a smart move to stay up to date with regulations and property wear-and-tear.

Need to Get Back on Track?

If you’re unsure whether your property is compliant:

1. Book a Healthy Homes Assessment through a trusted local provider.
2. Review your report and prioritise any upgrades or maintenance.
3. Keep records of all improvements and compliance documents.
4. Set reminders for regular property checks or assessments.

Need Help?

Whether you manage one rental or a portfolio, there are professional assessment providers throughout New Zealand who can guide you through the process. Look for a qualified inspector with experience in rental property standards.

The Healthy Homes Assessment is not just a legal requirement. It’s the foundation of a good tenancy relationship.