Healthy Homes Drainage & Moisture Standards.
Rental properties must have efficient drainage for the removal of stormwater, surface water and groundwater, including an appropriate outfall. The drainage system must include gutters, downpipes and drains for the removal of water from the roof.
If the rental property has an enclosed subfloor, a ground moisture barrier must be installed if it is reasonably practicable to do so.
Draught Stopping Standard.
Landlords must already provide rental properties in a reasonable state of repair.
Under the healthy homes standards, landlords must make sure the premises doesn’t have unreasonable gaps or holes in walls, ceilings, windows, skylights, floors and doors which cause noticeable draughts. Landlords can’t use the age and condition of the house as a reason not to stop gaps or holes.
If rental homes have an open fireplace, it must be closed off, or the chimney blocked to prevent draughts in and out of the property through the fireplace.
Tenants can ask landlords in writing to make the fireplace available for use, and the landlord can agree. If it is available for use, it must be in good working order and free of any gaps which could cause a draught that is not necessary for the safe and efficient operation of the open fireplace. It is best practice to record any agreement in writing, with both tenant and landlord keeping a copy.
If a door has an unreasonable gap causing a noticeable draught, that draught must be stopped. While there is no set maximum gap for doors, the technical guidance document will help landlords and tenants identify when a gap is unreasonable, and the resulting draught stopped.
Only 3 days left - 25% off adoption fees at SPCA
Why adopt from SPCA? Because all our animals come desexed, microchipped, vaccinated, health checked, and prepared for their life as a pet by our staff and foster families.
With expert advice, 3 months free pet insurance and Purina discount vouchers included, our adoptions are not only affordable but also provide everything your new friend needs to thrive. And between until 28 April only, our adoption fees are 25% off!
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Poll: Does the building consent process need to change?
We definitely need homes that are fit to live in but there are often frustrations when it comes to getting consent to modify your own home.
Do you think changes need made to the current process for building consent? Share your thoughts below.
Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the Conversations column of your local paper.
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91.4% Yes
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8.1% No
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0.5% Other - I'll share below!
Lest we forget...
On this ANZAC Day, let's take a moment to remember and honor the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country.
Tell us who are you honouring today. Whether it's a story from the battlefield or a memory of a family member who fought in the war, we'd love you to share your stories below.
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