Healthy Home Standards Deadline: 1st July 2025
The final compliance deadline for the Healthy Homes Standards is fast approaching. By 1 July 2025, all private rental properties in New Zealand must fully comply with the standards—regardless of when the tenancy began.
Previously, landlords had up to 120 days from a new or renewed tenancy to meet the standards. However, from 3 March 2025, this transitional period will no longer apply. All private rentals must meet the standards by the deadline, with no grace period.
What the Standards Require
Landlords must ensure their rental properties meet the following:
Why It Matters
Action Plan for Landlords
This is the last chance to bring rental properties into compliance before enforcement begins. Early action ensures you avoid legal risk, support tenant wellbeing, and protect your property investment.
Previously, landlords had up to 120 days from a new or renewed tenancy to meet the standards. However, from 3 March 2025, this transitional period will no longer apply. All private rentals must meet the standards by the deadline, with no grace period.
What the Standards Require
Landlords must ensure their rental properties meet the following:
- Heating - A fixed heating device capable of maintaining a minimum temperature of 18°C in the main living room.
- Insulation - Ceiling and underfloor insulation that meets the minimum R-values or complies with 2008 Building Code requirements.
- Ventilation - Openable windows in all habitable rooms, and mechanical extract fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Moisture and Drainage - Efficient drainage, guttering, and downpipes, with ground moisture barriers installed where necessary.
- Draught Stopping - All gaps or holes that cause unreasonable draughts must be blocked or repaired.
Why It Matters
- From 1 July 2025, renting out a non-compliant property will be unlawful.
- Landlords who fail to comply may face penalties of up to $7,200 per breach under the Residential Tenancies Act.
- Tenants can apply to the Tenancy Tribunal for enforcement and exemplary damages.
- There will be no extensions granted beyond this final deadline.
Action Plan for Landlords
- Arrange a Compliance Assessment - Engage a certified Healthy Homes assessor to identify any gaps or areas requiring upgrades.
- Schedule and Complete Upgrades - Focus on heating, insulation, ventilation, and draught-stopping as priorities. Demand for qualified installers will increase closer to the deadline.
- Maintain Compliance Records - Keep copies of receipts, inspection reports, photographs, and completed work certificates.
- Update Tenancy Agreements - Include a signed compliance statement in all new or renewed tenancy agreements.
- Communicate with Tenants - Notify tenants in advance of inspections or repair work and explain how the changes will improve the living environment.
This is the last chance to bring rental properties into compliance before enforcement begins. Early action ensures you avoid legal risk, support tenant wellbeing, and protect your property investment.
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