Insulation issues

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Furthermore, a landlord is responsible for ensuring that the premises are maintained in a reasonable state of repair, having regard to the age and character of the premises. The Building Code sets out the standards that buildings (including residential premises) must meet. The current Building Code requires houses to have appropriate levels of energy efficiency, and insulation may be one way of ensuring compliance with this requirement. However, buildings are only required to comply with the Building Code that was in force at the time the building was built or altered. Contact your local council for more information. Landlords may wish to consider whether they look at providing it as a long-term investment in their rental property, to benefit both current and future tenants. Funding for insulation is available through the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) where certain criteria are met, and information regarding funding, payment options, and eligibility requirements are available at www.energywise.govt.nz. Under the Act, a landlord can agree with their tenant to increase the rent if the landlord makes substantial improvements to the property. Landlords should discuss this option with their tenant to see if an agreement can be reached (remember to record any agreement reached in writing). Visit the Department’s website www.dbh.govt.nz, or call 0800 TENANCY (0800 836 262) for more information.