Healthy Homes: what your rental must provide
The five standards are law, not aspiration. Here's what compliance looks like and how to push when your place falls short.
The five standards, in one breath
Every private rental must have: a fixed heater capable of heating the main living room to 18°C; ceiling and underfloor insulation meeting the standard; extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms; efficient drainage plus a ground moisture barrier where applicable; and no unreasonable draughts. These apply to the property regardless of what the tenancy agreement says — you can't contract out of them.
How to check your place
Look for the Healthy Homes compliance statement that must be attached to newer tenancy agreements. No fixed heater in the lounge, mould around windows, no bathroom extractor, or a heat pump too small for the room are the common failures. Portable plug-in heaters don't count as the required heating.
Asking for compliance (the effective way)
Put it in writing: name the standard, describe the shortfall, request the fix within a stated reasonable time (14 days is common). Landlords face financial penalties for non-compliance, and a written record converts a shrug into exposure. Keep the tone factual — you're documenting, not fighting.
If nothing happens
Apply to the Tenancy Tribunal for a work order and/or exemplary damages. Non-compliance with Healthy Homes is an unlawful act; the Tribunal can order the work, compensation, and penalties. Your rent doesn't stop being payable meanwhile — withholding rent hands the landlord a counterclaim.
A tenancy question of your own?
Describe your situation in plain words — get an answer with the exact sections of the Residential Tenancies Act that apply, and a draft letter when you need one. First question free.
Ask NZ Tenancy Answers →FAQ
Do Healthy Homes standards apply to my tenancy?
All private rentals must comply — the final deadlines have passed. If your tenancy agreement is silent about it, the obligations still apply.
Is a portable heater enough?
No. The standard requires fixed heating in the main living room capable of reaching 18°C — plug-in portable heaters don't satisfy it.
What's my exact position?
Describe your place to NZ Tenancy Answers for a cited answer plus a compliance-request letter you can send today. First question free.
General information, not legal advice for your specific situation.
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