New Zealand’s Healthy Homes Standards (HHS) were introduced to improve the quality of rental housing and ensure healthier living conditions throughtout New Zealand. These standards are set minimum requirements for heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture control, drainage, and draught stopping. They are designed to reduce issues like dampness, mould, and inefficient heating, which can contribute to respiratory illnesses and poor indoor living conditions. Which we don’t want in New Zealand!
Under these standards, landlords are required to make necessary upgrades to their rental properties, ensuring they meet minimum insulation and heating requirements by the government’s deadlines.
How Double Glazing Helps Exceed Minimum Standards
While the Healthy Homes Standards do not yet mandate double glazing, they set requirements for insulation and thermal performance that double glazing can help exceed. Here’s how:
- Improved Thermal Efficiency
The HHS require rental properties to have a fixed heating source capable of maintaining at least 18°C in the main living areas. Double glazing improves heat retention, reducing the need for excessive heating, helping meet this requirement more efficiently.
- Reduces heat loss by up to 50% compared to single-pane windows.
- Helps maintain stable indoor temperatures all year-round.
- Better Moisture and Condensation Control
Dampness and mould are major concerns in New Zealand homes, contributing to health issues. The HHS mandate proper moisture control and ventilation.
- Double glazing reduces condensation build-up, minimising the risk of mould and mildew.
- Helps prevent water damage to walls, curtains, ceilings, and window frames.
- Supports compliance with moisture control regulations by limiting indoor humidity.
- Enhanced Draught Stopping
The HHS require landlords to block unwanted draughts that cause heat loss. Older windows are common culprits for air leaks.
- Sealed double glazing eliminates draughts through windows and frames.
- Creates a more airtight living environment, increasing energy efficiency.
- Exceeding Standards for Future-Proofing
While the current HHS do not mandate double glazing, future regulations may evolve to require higher energy efficiency. Investing in double glazing ensures landlords stay ahead.
- Increases property value and appeal to tenants.
- Prepares homes for future energy efficiency laws.
- Reduces long-term maintenance and heating costs.
At Elite Glazing and Glass Auckland, we specialise in high-quality double glazing retrofits to help homeowners and landlords future-proof their properties while ensuring compliance with the Healthy Homes Standards.
By investing in double glazing, you’re not just meeting minimum requirements—you’re exceeding them, creating a healthier, warmer, and more energy-efficient home.
