NZ Healthy Homes Standards — What Tradies Need to Know
The Healthy Homes Standards (HHS) require all private rental properties to comply with five minimum standards. Landlords hire tradies to do this work — understanding the standards helps you scope and quote accurately.
The Five Standards
1. Heating — At least one fixed heater capable of heating the main living room to 18°C. A heat pump is the most common solution. Portables don't count.
2. Insulation — Ceiling insulation to at least R2.9 (existing ceiling space ≥ 400mm) or R1.5 (less than 400mm). Underfloor insulation to R1.3 where accessible.
3. Ventilation — Extractor fans ducted to outside in kitchens and bathrooms. Openable windows required in every habitable room.
4. Moisture and Drainage — A ground moisture barrier (polythene sheet) must cover at least 75% of accessible subfloor area. Adequate stormwater drainage required.
5. Draught Stopping — No unreasonable gaps in the building envelope. Open fireplaces must have a closeable vent.
Compliance Deadlines
All private rentals must now comply — the deadline has passed. Landlords who haven't complied face fines up to $7,200 per property under the Residential Tenancies Act 1986.
Quoting Healthy Homes Work
When quoting for landlords, assess all five standards together — it saves the client multiple visit fees and positions you as the complete solution. Use our H1 Insulation Calculator to check ceiling and underfloor R-value requirements by zone.
MBIE's Healthy Homes guidance has the full technical standards.