Key Compliance Requirements for Rental Homes

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1. Heating:

   • Rental homes must have one or more fixed heating devices in the main living room capable of maintaining a temperature of at least 18°C.

   • Acceptable heaters include electric heaters, heat pumps, or flued gas heaters. Inefficient, unaffordable, or unhealthy heaters (e.g., unflued gas heaters) do not meet the standard.

      

2. Insulation:

   • Ceiling and underfloor insulation must meet the 2008 Building Code or, for existing ceiling insulation, be at least 120mm thick and in reasonable condition.

   • Properties with insulation installed since 2016 likely meet the standard. If insulation is less than 120mm or in poor condition, upgrades are required.

   • Exemptions may apply for underfloor insulation installed at the time of construction if still in reasonable condition, with proof like a code compliance certificate.

      

      

3. Ventilation:

   • Kitchens and bathrooms must have appropriately sized extractor fans or rangehoods that vent to the outside.

   • Living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms must have openable windows.

   • Since May 2022, continuous mechanical ventilation systems (approved after November 2019) are also acceptable for kitchens and bathrooms.

      

      

4. Moisture Ingress and Drainage:

   • Properties must have efficient drainage systems, including guttering, downpipes, and drains.

   • If the home has an enclosed subfloor, a ground moisture barrier must be installed where feasible to prevent moisture buildup.

      

5. Draught-Stopping:

   • Unnecessary gaps or holes in walls, ceilings, windows, floors, or doors that cause noticeable draughts must be sealed.

   • Unused open fireplaces must be blocked, or their chimneys sealed, to prevent draughts.