INSULATION FOR RENTAL HOMES
Since 1st July 2019, it is compulsory for all rental homes to have ceiling and underfloor insulation installed to comply with local regulations and installed to standard NZS 4246.
Rental property insulation: complying with the tenancy law changes
Compliance with the tenancy law changes regarding rental property insulation is crucial for both landlords and tenants. As of July 2019, it became mandatory for all rental properties to have adequate insulation in place, as outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act. This means that landlords are required to ensure that their properties meet the prescribed insulation standards, which include having ceiling and underfloor insulation where reasonably practicable. The standard requires ceiling insulation to be in a good condition and must now be at least 120mm thick. The standard also requires underfloor insulation to be in good condition and have a minimum R-value of R1.3. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in penalties and fines.
For tenants, this signifies an important improvement in living conditions, as proper insulation contributes to a more comfortable and energy-efficient home. It helps to regulate indoor temperatures, reduce energy bills, and promote a healthier living environment. Landlords must also provide a statement of the current level of insulation in their rental properties, ensuring transparency and compliance with the law. These tenancy law changes in New Zealand aim to raise the standard of living for tenants and promote more sustainable and energy-efficient housing.
There are some exemptions to the insulation standard:
Access. Areas that inaccessible to insulate or may be unsafe.
Certain underfloor insulation. Existing underfloor insulation that is in reasonable condition.
Habitable Spaces. Ceilings or floors where there are other habitable spaces directly above or below.
Recommendations for insulating with glasswool insulation:
|
NORTH ISLAND (ZONE 1 & 2) |
|
Ceiling Insulation |
|
| Thickness of existing insulation (based on glasswool) | R-value (m2K/W) |
| 0 - 60mm |
R2.9 roll (Good) R3.2 batt or roll (Better) R4.1 batt (Best) |
|
60 - 100mm 60-80mm for masonry wall construction |
R1.8 roll or R2.2 handy roll |
|
80 - 100mm Timber construction only. 80mm is suitable for masonry wall construction |
R1.8 roll or R2.2 handy roll |
|
Insulation must be installed to meet the standard NZS 4246 |
|
Underfloor Insulation |
|
| Thickness of existing insulation (based on glasswool) | R-value (m2K/W) |
| No insulation installed |
Underfloor Insulation Batt or Roll |
|
Insulation must be installed to meet the standard NZS 4246 |
|
|
SOUTH ISLAND & CENTRAL PLATEAU (ZONE 3) |
|
Ceiling Insulation |
|
| Thickness of existing insulation (based on glasswool) | R-value (m2K/W) |
|
0 - 60mm
|
R3.6 batt or roll (Good) R4.1 roll (Better) R5.2 batt (Best) |
|
60 - 100mm 60-80mm for masonry wall construction |
R1.8 roll or R2.2 handy roll |
|
80 - 100mm Timber construction only. 80mm is suitable for masonry wall construction |
R1.8 roll or R2.2 handy roll |
|
Insulation must be installed to meet the standard NZS 4246 |
|
Underfloor Insulation |
|
| Thickness of existing insulation (based on glasswool) | R-value (m2K/W) |
| No insulation installed |
Underfloor insulation or Roll |
|
Insulation must be installed to meet the standard NZS 4246 |
|
Elevate your rental investment with industry-leading insulation. From ceiling to underfloor, explore insulation options designed to meet or exceed recommended R-values. Knauf Insulation has the products, the expertise, installation services and DIY install information required to help you meet your obligations as a landlord.
To arrange to have insulation professionally installed in your property contact us or you will find a range of high quality, easy to install DIY Earthwool® glasswool insulation products at your local Bunnings.
