New Healthy Home Standards - 1 July 2025

New Healthy Home standards in relation to rental properties come into effect on 1 July 2025. 

The standard sets minimum requirements for such things as heating, ventilation, moisture ingress and drainage, draught stopping etc.  All landlords of existing and new rental properties are responsible for ensuring their properties meet the standards and continue to do so over time.  Failure to comply may be considered a breach of the Residential Tenancies Act with possible financial penalties.

• Transition Period: For existing tenancies, a 12-month transition period has been allowed to enable landlords to undertake an inspection of their properties and carry out any necessary work to ensure their properties are compliant.   

• Exemptions: In very limited circumstances, an exemption may be available, but this would only be for cases such as demolition, substantial rebuild or renovation.

• Tenancy Agreement Change: In addition to complying with the standards, all new or renewed tenancy agreements must include a signed statement with details of the property’s current level of compliance with the standards.  It is important that landlords keep records and documents to show how they are complying.

The Tenancy Tribunal has released a “toolkit” with helpful resources, templates, and a checklist which landlords can use.  These can be found on the Tenancy Services website: Healthy homes standards – what a landlord needs to know » Tenancy Services

As a landlord, regardless of whether you manage the property yourself or engage a property manager, you are responsible for ensuring compliance.  We would encourage you to take steps now to check your property.  If you engage a property manager, speak to them as they may be able to assist you with this process.