Healthy Homes – Staying Compliant

 Tips for Staying Compliant with New Zealand’s Healthy Homes Standards

As professional property managers, one of our key responsibilities is ensuring rental properties meet the Healthy Homes Standards (HHS) — a legal requirement designed to improve the quality of New Zealand’s rental housing.

Here are 5 practical tips to help landlords stay compliant and keep tenants safe, warm, and happy:

1. Get a Professional Healthy Homes Assessment

Even if you think your property meets the standards, a professional assessment removes the guesswork. Certified inspectors can identify issues landlords may overlook and provide a compliance report for your records.

2. Stay on Top of Heating Requirements

The living room must have a fixed heating device that can warm the room to at least 18°C on the coldest day of the year. Use the Heating Assessment Tool from Tenancy Services to confirm your current heating setup meets the requirements.

Tip: Heat pumps are often the most efficient and compliant option for most properties.

3. Check and Maintain Insulation Regularly

Since 1 July 2019, insulation in ceilings and under floors must meet the 2008 Building Code or have a minimum R-value depending on your location. Insulation can settle or be displaced, so regular checks — especially between tenancies — are a must.

4. Be Vigilant About Moisture and Ventilation

Install extraction fans in kitchens and bathrooms and ensure all rooms have windows that open. Look out for mould or damp spots — they’re signs your ventilation needs attention. Moisture barriers are also required in some homes with suspended floors.

5. Keep Accurate Records and Dates

Document everything: assessments, work completed, product specs, and tenancy agreements. Since compliance deadlines vary depending on tenancy start dates, keep a calendar reminder for when your properties must be fully compliant.

Final Word:

Healthy Homes compliance is more than a legal obligation — it’s about protecting your investment and providing tenants with a safe, healthy place to live. Proactive maintenance now can save you from penalties and bigger repairs down the track.

Need help staying compliant? Contact us for a Healthy Homes audit or tailored compliance plan.