Heating
There must be one or more fixed heater(s) that can directly heat the main living room to at least 18°C.
Certain heating devices that are inefficient, unaffordable or unhealthy will not meet the requirements of this standard.
Insulation
Some existing insulation will need to be topped up or replaced. Depending on location, ceiling insulation needs to meet minimum R-values,* or existing ceiling insulation needs to be at least 120mm thick. Underfloor insulation needs a minimum R-value of 1.3.
Ventilation
There must be windows, skylights or doors that open to the outside in the living room, dining room, kitchen and bedrooms. These must be able to be fixed in the open position and comprise at least five per cent of the room’s floor area.
There must be extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms that vent to the outside.
Moisture ingress and drainage
There must be adequate drainage, guttering and downpipes.
Rental properties that have an enclosed subfloor must have a ground moisture barrier (if it’s possible to install one).
Draught stopping
Landlords must block any unreasonable gaps and holes in walls, ceilings, windows, floors and doors that cause noticeable draughts.
Open fireplaces must be blocked unless the tenant and landlord agree otherwise.
