Healthy Homes Standards: What Christchurch Landlords Need to Know

If you’re a landlord in Christchurch or anywhere across Canterbury, the Healthy Homes Standards aren’t just a recommendation—they’re a legal requirement. Since 1 July 2021, most private rentals in New Zealand must comply with these standards, or landlords risk fines and tenancy disputes.

At Manetain Building Services, we work with landlords to ensure their properties meet the requirements. Here’s what you need to know—and how a Healthy Homes inspection can help.

What Are the Healthy Homes Standards?

The Healthy Homes Standards are designed to ensure rental properties are warm, dry, and safe. They cover five key areas:

1. Heating – A fixed heater in the main living room that meets minimum heating capacity.

2. Insulation – Ceiling and underfloor insulation must meet the 2008 Building Code.

3. Ventilation – Windows in living areas and bedrooms, plus extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms.

4. Moisture Ingress and Drainage – Proper drainage systems and a ground moisture barrier if there’s a subfloor.

5. Draught Stopping – No unreasonable gaps or holes in walls, windows, doors, or floors.

Who Needs to Comply—and When?

• Private landlords: All rental homes must comply within 120 days of any new or renewed tenancy agreement.

• Kainga Ora and community housing providers: Required to comply by 1 July 2024.

If you’re renting out a property in Christchurch, now’s the time to make sure you’re meeting your obligations.

Why a Healthy Homes Inspection Matters

A Healthy Homes report from Manetain gives you:

• A clear assessment of where your property stands

• Documentation to support compliance

• Peace of mind that you won’t be caught out later

We’ll walk you through what’s compliant, what’s not, and what needs to change.

What’s Included in a Manetain Healthy Homes Inspection?

Our inspections are thorough but non-invasive, covering:

• Heating output calculations

• Visual checks of insulation, ventilation, and drainage

• Moisture barriers and signs of dampness

• Draught sources and structural gaps

• Easy-to-read compliance summary and recommendations

We work across Christchurch, Rolleston, and greater Canterbury—and we know what local homes typically need to meet the mark.

Get Compliant—Without the Guesswork

Healthy Homes compliance can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. With over 25 years of experience, we make the process simple and straightforward.

Whether you manage one property or many, we’ll give you the tools and clarity to meet your obligations and keep tenants happy.