Every rental property in New Zealand must meet the Healthy Homes Standards—and heating and insulation are two of the most important components. Ensuring compliance not only avoids penalties but also improves tenant comfort, lowers maintenance risks, and protects your investment.

This checklist outlines what landlords need to know and do when it comes to insulation and heating under the current regulations.

Insulation Requirements

The Healthy Homes Standards set minimum insulation levels for both the ceiling and underfloor areas. These requirements apply to all rental properties unless it is not reasonably practicable to install insulation (for example, due to limited access).

Ceiling Insulation:

  • Must meet the 2008 Building Code minimum R-value for your region (R 2.9 for Auckland).
  • If existing insulation was installed before 1 July 2016 and is at least 120mm thick and in reasonable condition (no gaps, damage, or compression), it may still comply.
  • Any new or top-up insulation must meet the required R-value and be professionally installed.

Underfloor Insulation:

  • Required for timber-framed floors with accessible subfloor space.
  • Must meet the minimum R-value of 1.3.
  • Commonly installed using polystyrene, polyester, or glass wool batts.
  • Should be securely fixed with no gaps or sagging.

Exceptions:

  • Concrete slab floors are generally exempt from underfloor insulation requirements.
  • Homes with ceilings or underfloors that are inaccessible may be eligible for an exemption, but documentation must be retained.

Action Items:

  • Check if current insulation meets 2008 Building Code or Healthy Homes thresholds.
  • Inspect for gaps, compression, or signs of damage.
  • Get an insulation top-up or full replacement if existing insulation falls short.
  • Keep records of insulation assessments, quotes, and installation certificates.

Heating Requirements

Every rental must have a fixed heating device capable of heating the main living room to a minimum of 18°C. This is a legal requirement under the Healthy Homes Heating Standard.

Acceptable Heating Options:

  • Heat pumps (highly efficient and commonly used in Auckland)
  • Flued gas heaters
  • Wood burners or pellet burners (in some cases)
  • Electric panel heaters (only allowed in smaller rooms under certain conditions)

Not Acceptable:

  • Unflued gas heaters
  • Open fires
  • Portable electric heaters (not fixed, and generally not powerful enough)

Heating Assessment Tool:

The government provides a free online calculator to determine the kilowatt (kW) output required for your living room:
 https://www.tenancy.govt.nz/heating-tool/

Action Items:

  • Confirm the main living room has a fixed, compliant heating device.
  • Ensure the heater’s output meets or exceeds the kW requirement calculated for the room size.
  • Replace or upgrade heating systems that don’t meet standards.
  • Keep receipts and specifications for any installed heaters.

Recommended Upgrades

Ground Moisture Barrier:

  • Required if the property has an enclosed subfloor and it is possible to install one.
  • Helps reduce moisture, mould risk, and cold drafts.

Wall Insulation:

  • Not currently required under the Healthy Homes Standards, but beneficial for improving warmth and energy efficiency.

Draught Stopping and Ventilation:

  • While not covered in this checklist, landlords should ensure doors, windows, and extractor fans also meet Healthy Homes Standards.

Compliance Tips

  • Have a Healthy Homes Assessment carried out by a certified provider.
  • Use licensed installers for insulation and heating upgrades.
  • Store all documentation securely—this may be required during a Tenancy Tribunal case or rental audit.
  • Keep tenants informed about changes or improvements that affect their living conditions.

How Panda Solutions Can Help

We offer end-to-end Healthy Homes services across Auckland, including:

  • Full Healthy Homes Assessments with detailed reporting
  • Insulation installation or top-ups (ceiling, underfloor, wall)
  • Heat pump and panel heater installation
  • Ground moisture barrier installation
  • Expert advice on what’s required—and what’s worth upgrading

Whether you’re preparing your first rental or managing a portfolio, we’ll make compliance simple, fast, and cost-effective.

Book an Assessment or Get a Quote

Need help getting your rental up to standard? Book a Healthy Homes Assessment or request a quote today from Panda Solutions.

We’re fast, professional, and trusted by property managers across Auckland.