What is a Healthy Homes Certificate and why do you need one?
According to the New Zealand government, healthy homes is an initiative to increase the quality of life for tenants, and the longevity of landlords’ homes. Through ensuring the heating; insulation; ventilation; moisture ingress; drainage and draught stopping standards of tenanted homes, the health and wellbeing of Kiwis will improve.
For example, New Zealand’s colder climate means closed windows and doors, frequent use of indoor fireplaces, less fresh air flow and an increase in recycled air. These are perfect environments for harmful mould growth, which is a common cause of respiratory conditions and illnesses. Which is why the healthy homes standard includes a standard on ventilation.
A history of lower standards in rental properties as compared to owner occupied properties led to an intervention by the New Zealand government, and the birth of the Health Homes Initiative. From July 1st 2024, all rental homes in New Zealand must comply with the healthy homes standard, and those landlords who don’t will face thousands of dollars worth of fines.
However, there are 3 different climate zones within New Zealand, so your property may have different requirements depending on where it is located.
The best way to simplify meeting the healthy homes standard is to bring in the professionals. Pulse Building Inspections are trained healthy homes assessors, and can identify and report on the quality of your rental property. The Pulse Building Inspections team will ensure that your property ticks all of the mandatory boxes as fast as possible, so that you do not have to leave your property unoccupied. Avoid extreme fines and vacant property losses by calling Pulse Building Inspections on 0800 278 573 and book in your healthy homes assessment today. It will be the wisest decision you can make for your investment and your tenants.
