Over the coming weeks we will be sharing a series of short landlord guides for Tauranga landlords. Whether you are a first time investor or have owned rental property for years, the rules and expectations around property management continue to evolve.
Our upcoming topics will include:
-What good property management should cost
-How to choose the right tenant
-Common mistakes Tauranga landlords make
-Rental market updates for Tauranga
We are starting the series with one of the most important topics for landlords today: Healthy Homes.
What are the Healthy Homes Standards?
The Healthy Homes Standards were introduced by the New Zealand Government to ensure rental properties are warm, dry and healthy for tenants to live in. The standards focus on five key areas that directly impact the comfort and wellbeing of people living in the home.
The deadline for compliance has now passed. This means that any property rented out in New Zealand must meet the Healthy Homes Standards. If a property does not comply, landlords can face significant fines and may also find it difficult to legally rent their property.
The five Healthy Homes areas
Heating
Rental homes must have a fixed heating device in the main living area that can heat the room to at least 18°C. In most homes this is a heat pump or approved heater sized correctly for the space.
Insulation
Ceiling and underfloor insulation must meet minimum thickness and coverage requirements. Good insulation keeps warmth inside during winter and helps regulate temperature year round.
Ventilation
Homes must have opening windows in living areas, bedrooms and kitchens, along with extractor fans which vent to the exterior in bathrooms and kitchens to remove moisture and reduce condensation.
Moisture and drainage
Rental properties must have effective drainage systems including gutters, downpipes and drains. Ground moisture barriers are also required in many homes with enclosed subfloors to prevent dampness rising into the property.
Draught stopping
Landlords must block any unreasonable gaps or holes that cause noticeable draughts. This includes things like unused chimneys, gaps in floors or around windows and doors.
Thinking about renting out your home?
We are increasingly speaking with Tauranga homeowners who are considering placing their own home into the rental pool. This might be due to relocation, travel, or a change in circumstances.
If you are thinking about renting your property, it is important to check whether it meets Healthy Homes requirements.
The good news is that this is something we can guide you through. We can arrange Healthy Homes assessments, organize any required work, and ensure your property is compliant before tenants move in.
Our goal is to make the process straightforward and stress free for you.
If you would like advice about property management and preparing your property for the rental market, feel free to contact the team at Evans Property Management. We are always happy to help.
Keep an eye out for the next article in our Tauranga Landlord Guide series, where we will talk about what good property management should cost.