Renters' awareness of Healthy Homes rules remains low
Landlord compliance with New Zealand’s Healthy Homes Standards has reached record levels, but a quarter of renters remain unaware of the regulations, according to the latest government report.
Most landlords meet Healthy Homes standards
The 2025 Healthy Homes Guarantee Act Monitoring report shows that 87% of landlords say their properties now fully comply with the Healthy Homes Standards, which became mandatory on July 1. Another 4% expect to meet the requirements soon, leaving only a small minority lagging behind.
Renter awareness still lags
While 95% of landlords are aware of the standards, only 74% of renters say the same. This gap has persisted since 2021, with one in four renters still not aware of their rights under the new rules.
Insulation and heating: High compliance, ongoing uncertainty
Ceiling insulation is reported in 87% of rental properties by landlords, but only 66% of renters are certain their homes are insulated. Underfloor insulation is present in 59% of landlords’ properties, while just 38% of renters report the same. Nearly nine in ten landlords and renters say their main living rooms have acceptable heating.
Cost remains a barrier
Among landlords who find compliance difficult, nearly half cite cost as the main obstacle. Other barriers include logistical challenges such as property access and building style.
Tenancy agreements and law changes
The report found that 94% of landlords and 84% of renters have formal written tenancy agreements. However, only 53% of renters are aware that these agreements must include a compliance statement, compared to 83% of landlords.
Recent law changes allow renters to request minor alterations and fibre broadband installation, with most landlords accommodating these requests.
Rent increases and letting fees
Nearly half of landlords (46%) increased rent in the past year, while 42% of renters reported a rent hike. Despite a ban on letting fees since December 2018, one in five renters say they were charged such fees after this date.
Engagement and dispute resolution
About a third of renters have discussed Healthy Homes issues with their landlord in the past six months, mostly at the renter’s initiative.
Two-thirds of renters say they would speak up about non-compliance, but 37% remain hesitant, often due to fear of repercussions. More than half of renters are now willing to seek mediation or go to the Tenancy Tribunal if issues remain unresolved.
What it means for mortgage advisers
For mortgage advisers, these findings underscore the importance of ensuring clients – especially property investors – are fully informed and compliant with Healthy Homes standards. Non-compliance can affect property value, rental demand, and investment returns.
To read the full Healthy Homes Guarantee Act Monitoring Topline report, click here.
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