Healthy Homes Draught-Stopping Requirements NZ
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NZ landlords must block unreasonable gaps or holes in walls, ceilings, windows, skylights, floors, and doors that cause noticeable draughts, and must close an unused open fireplace or block its chimney unless it is available for use and compliant.
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There is no universal maximum door-gap measurement. The legal test is whether a gap or hole is unreasonable and causes a noticeable draught, considering its size, location, total effect, and heat loss. The age of the home is not a reason to leave it.
Draught walk-through
- Inspect external doors, window frames, skylights, wall and floor penetrations, ceilings, and floorboards on a windy or cold day.
- Distinguish defects from intentional ventilation openings, which must not be blocked.
- Use durable repairs such as adjusted latches, seals, thresholds, filler, or building repairs rather than asking tenants to use temporary draught snakes.
- Close an unused open fireplace or block its chimney. If it is made available by written agreement, keep it in working order and do not obstruct openings needed for safe operation.
- Record before and after photos, dates, and contractor advice, including asbestos precautions where relevant.
Repeat the check after movement, renovations, or weather damage. The assessment evidence guide explains what to retain with the property record.
Primary source: Tenancy Services draught-stopping standard, reviewed 6 September 2026.
Written from my own experience running rentals in New Zealand. It is general information to help you understand your options, not legal, tax, or financial advice, and RentManager is not your lawyer or accountant. Rules change and every tenancy is different - check your own situation with Tenancy Services, the IRD, or a professional before you act on it.