Healthy Homes Compliance: Now in Full Force

ALERT: ** Healthy Homes Compliance: Now in Full Force **

 

As of 1 July 2025, Healthy Homes Standards are no longer optional or phased—they’re now in effect across all residential rental properties in New Zealand. For property investors, this marks a pivotal moment.

 

What does this mean?

Every rental property must now meet strict requirements for:

  • Heating – one or more fixed heaters that can directly heat the main living room and meet the minimum heating capacity requirements.
  • Insulation – ceiling and underfloor, where existing this may need to be topped up to the standards.
  • Ventilation – windows and mechanical systems ie extractors in bathrooms and kitchens.
  • Moisture ingress and drainage – sufficient drainage, guttering and downpipes.
  • Draught stopping measures – blocking any unreasonable gaps or holes, in walls, ceilings, windows, floors and doors.

 

No new tenancy grace periods — compliance is mandatory, regardless of lease start date. Landlords must also maintain documentation and include compliance details in tenancy agreements.

 

Why it matters:

  • Non-compliance can lead to fines and tenancy disputes.
  • Properties that meet standards are more attractive to tenants.
  • Long-term maintenance reduces costly repairs and improves asset value.

 

If you haven’t already upgraded your property, now is the time to act. And if you’re compliant, stay vigilant. Regular inspections and proactive maintenance are key to staying ahead. There is no legal requirement to engage a professional to carry out a Health Homes Compliance Report, you can prepare your own Healthy Homes Compliance report, as long as you’re confident in your understanding of the standards and can accurately assess your property. But there’s a catch: you are legally responsible for the accuracy of that report, and incorrect or misleading statements can lead to penalties under the Residential Tenancies Act. Hence, it’s always better to engage a professional to help in this process.

 

Need to know more? Contact Michell Igasan on 07 571 3660

Disclaimer: This article is general in nature and should not be treated as professional advice. It is recommended that you consult your advisor. No liability is assumed by Harris Tate Limited for any losses suffered by any person relying directly or indirectly upon the article above.

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