The Healthy Homes Standards (HHS) were introduced by the New Zealand government to ensure rental properties are warm, dry, and healthy for tenants.
These standards set specific and minimum requirements for heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture ingress and drainage, and draught stopping in rental properties.
As a landlord or property manager, understanding and complying with these standards is essential to ensure tenant well-being and avoid penalties. Whether you're working towards becoming Healthy Homes compliant, or need help funding upgrades, this guide covers everything you need to know.
The heating standard requires that all rental properties have one or more fixed heaters capable of directly heating the main living room. These heaters must be able to maintain a temperature of at least 18°C.
To determine your property's needs, use the Healthy Homes Assessment Tool.
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Ceiling and underfloor insulation is a key component of the Healthy Homes NZ framework. Your property must meet the NZ Standard - NZS4246:2016:
Insulation must be in reasonable condition, with no gaps, dampness, or damage. If your existing insulation doesn't meet the standards, it must be topped up or replaced.
Note: R-value recommendations vary across the country
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A well-ventilated property is crucial for preventing mould and maintaining healthy air quality. The Healthy Homes standards require:
This ensures that moisture can be expelled effectively, reducing the risk of mould.
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Rental properties must have efficient systems for dealing with water and moisture. This includes:
These measures prevent moisture from entering the home and causing structural or health issues.
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Reducing draughts improves heating efficiency and tenant comfort. Under the Healthy Homes standards, landlords must:
Simple fixes like sealing strips or door draught stoppers can make a big difference.
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Apply NowUse this checklist to track your progress toward becoming Healthy Homes compliant:
Bringing your rental property up to Healthy Homes standards can involve a range of unexpected costs. From new heat pumps and extractor fans to insulation top-ups or moisture barriers, compliance work adds up fast.
That’s where Property.Credit comes in. We offer a pay-later funding solution designed specifically for landlords and property managers who need to get compliant — without upfront capital outlay. We can finance:
With quick approvals and flexible repayment options, Property.Credit takes the financial pressure off while you stay focused on meeting the legal requirements.
Start your application now: Apply with Property.Credit
For detailed information and resources, landlords and property managers are encouraged to visit the Tenancy Services website: https://www.tenancy.govt.nz/healthy-homes/.
Note: This article is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Landlords should consult the official Tenancy Services website or seek professional advice for specific compliance requirements.