All rental properties must meet the healthy homes standards unless an exemption applies. When you’re looking for a new rental, here are a few things to look for and ask questions about.

This list does not cover everything in the healthy homes standards, just some things you can easily keep an eye out for.

Healthy homes

What to check for in a new rental property

• Is there floor and ceiling insulation?
• Is it free from gaps that could cause draughts?
• Is there a window, door or skylight in each room that can be opened to the outside and remain open?
• Is it free from signs of moisture or water under or around the property?
• Is there working guttering and downpipes that will drain water away?
• Is it free from mould or signs it could be damp?
• Is there an extraction fan in the kitchen & bathroom, or a qualifying ventilation system?
• Is there a qualifying fixed heater in the main living room?
• Is there a moisture barrier installed underneath the property? (This is only needed if there is an enclosed space under the property)
• Will the landlord provide a healthy homes compliance statement? (There needs to be one in your new tenancy agreement)

If you have seen something that you do not think meets the healthy homes standards, ask your landlord or property manager about their plans to meet the standards before you apply to rent the property.

What a tenant needs to know