Healthy Homes Standard

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Healthy Homes with Insulation

Insulation stops heat escaping from the house. In general, the better a house is insulated, the more it will retain heat or in summer, block excess heat from entering. This means: 

  • A healthier, drier home 
  • Less mould and mildew growth 
  • In general, the property will use less energy to heat and cool

Since July 2019, the installation of ceiling and underfloor insulation has been mandatory in all rental properties where reasonably practicable to install. As a landlord, it’s essential to meet the specific insulation requirements of the Residential Tenancies Act for the Healthy Homes Standard. 

Between 1 July 2021 and 1 July 2025, all private rentals must comply with the healthy homes standards within certain timeframes from the start of any new, or renewed, tenancy.

These include, but aren’t limited to: 

  • Insulation 
  • Heating & Ventilation 
  • Draught Stopping 
  • Moisture ingress and drainage. 

Our teams across the country can advise landlords and property managers to assess their rentals and confirm compliance to the standard. Additionally we can help with insulation upgrades or installs in the property. 

We take pride in offering two insulation options, designed specifically for New Zealand Homes – Premier Glasswool and Premier 100% Polyester Insulation. Two of the most commonly used materials throughout New Zealand. 

Learn more about requirements here

What is the required level for insulation? 

Insulation requirements are measured by R-value. R-value is a measure of resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation.

Minimum R-values vary across New Zealand. Use the map below to check what zone your property is in.

Our team will be able to assess your property and advise on the best insulation options to ensure you’re compliant. 

Zone 1:
Ceiling R2.9
Underfloor R1.3

Zone 1:
Ceiling R2.9
Underfloor R1.3

Zone 1:
Ceiling R3.3
Underfloor R1.3

Exemptions to the insulation standard

There are three specific insulation exemptions. The information here is an overview. More information on these exemptions is available can be found here

This information can be found on the tenacy.govt.nz website.

Access is impracticable or unsafe
Unfortunately, in some homes, areas of the ceiling or underfloor may be unsafe or not reasonably practicable to access. This can be due to their design, limited access and due to health and safety. 

Partial exemption for certain underfloor insulation
If the rental home has existing underfloor insulation that was installed when the home was built or converted. This insulation must still be in reasonable condition. Landlords must have a copy of any compliance documents that shows the home met the requirements of the time.

Ceilings and floors with other habitable spaces directly above or below
The third exemption applies to areas of ceilings or floors where there are other habitable spaces directly above or below. This might be another floor of the same property or another apartment. These areas do not require insulation to meet the healthy homes insulation standard.

If you installed new insulation since 1 July 2016, you should already meet the healthy homes insulation standard and you probably won’t need to do anything further to comply with the healthy homes standard. However, you should still check that the insulation is in reasonable condition.Â