Promoting warmer, drier rentals

Recent changes to the Residential Tenancies Act mean that smoke alarms and insulation are now required in all rental properties.

While smoke alarms have been compulsory in rental properties since July 1, landlords have until July 1 2019 to install insulation up to the latest 2008 standards in their rental properties.

According to Tenancy Services, as landlords get into the work that needs doing on their rental properties over summer, it’s a good time to remind them of their obligations.

The campaign will explain the recent law changes as well as other regulations aimed at making the quality of rental homes better. 

Most landlords want to do the right thing, a Tenancy Services representative said.

“But the campaign will also warn them about tough new penalties for breaking the law, as well as our new team of investigators and the government’s new powers to take enforcement action in serious cases.”

For example, landlords must have the right type of smoke alarms installed in the right places and they also have a responsibility to ensure the alarms are working.

A landlord who fails to comply with their smoke alarm obligations is committing an unlawful act and could be liable for a penalty of up to $4,000.

While there are over two years for landlords to get insulation installed in their rental properties, Tenancy Services’ campaign suggests it would be sensible to get it done sooner rather than later.

It also reminds landlords that, since July 1, it has been compulsory to include Insulation Statements – which detail whether there is insulation, where it is, and its type and condition – in all their tenancy agreements.

Additionally, the campaign aims to educate tenants, especially young tenants, about their rights and responsibilities.

Building and Construction Minister Nick Smith has previously emphasised that the RTA changes are intended to make rental homes warmer, drier and safer.

“Homes with properly installed insulation provide a warm, dry and safe place for New Zealanders to live.

“This, in turn, means fewer hospital admissions, fewer school days lost and a better standard of living overall.”