In 2019 new standards were bought in covering landlord responsibilities for insurance in a rental property. These standards cover the amount of insulation required and where it should be. Various statements of compliance must now be completed by landlords to show the required insulation is in place. The changes are part of the new Healthy Homes Standards introduced by the government designed to make rental properties warmer, drier and healthier to live in.
Other new standards apply to heating, ventilation and drainage. Landlords must fully comply with all of these obligations by July 2021.
New insulation standards
Under the new regulations rental properties must have ceiling and underfloor insulation that either meets the 2008 Building Code standard for insulation or, for existing ceiling insulation, is at least 120mm thick.
The insulation must meet a minimum R-value - which rates how effective it is - but this varies across the country. In Auckland, where temperatures are generally warmer, the minimum R-value required is less than elsewhere.
There are some exceptions to the standards where it is not reasonably practicable to install insulation. This includes homes built on concrete slabs where it is not possible to access the underfloor area and homes with very low pitched roofs where there is no access to the ceiling cavity. If the installation of the insulation will require substantial building work, damage the building or may cause risk to the installers then it may also be exempted.
All rental properties will need a signed statement showing compliance with standards
Currently, all landlords must provide a statement showing that they either already comply or intend to comply with the new standards. From December 2020 a fuller statement will be required showing how the standards are being complied with.
For insulation this will include stating the R-value and when the insulation was installed.
All rental properties will need a signed statement showing compliance with standards
Currently, all landlords must provide a statement showing that they either already comply or intend to comply with the new standards. From December 2020 a fuller statement will be required showing how the standards are being complied with.
For insulation this will include stating the R-value and when the insulation was installed.
Checking to see if your rental property insulation is adequate
Landlords who fail to comply with the new regulations risk fines so it is important that you are compliant whether you rent just one property or have an investment property portfolio.
A professional building inspection for landlords can help you see your current levels of insulation in your rental property. The inspection report will tell you where insulation is already placed and where you might need to top up.
The inspection can also check other aspects of heating and ventilation at your property. This will help you ensure you are providing a warm and healthy home for your tenants. If you ask, your inspector can also point out any maintenance issues that may need dealing with. This will help you keep on top of repairs before they become bigger issues.
Getting a building inspection is an expense. However, the money you may save in fines or hefty repair bills from unnoticed issues will be worth it.
To find out more about the new requirements for insulation in a rental property visit the Tenancy Services website insulation page. If you would like to book a building inspection, then call us today.
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A professional building inspection for landlords can help you see your current levels of insulation in your rental property. The inspection report will tell you where insulation is already placed and where you might need to top up enabling you to complete your insulation statement with confidence.
>Your inspector can also point out any maintenance issues that may need dealing with. This will help you keep on top of repairs before they become bigger issues.