How to make your rental property healthier for your tenants

As a landlord in New Zealand, you have a responsibility to provide your tenants with a healthy and safe place to live. This means making sure that your rental property is well-maintained and free of hazards. It also means taking steps to improve the indoor air quality and reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth.

Here are some tips on how to make your New Zealand rental property healthier for your tenants:

• Ensure adequate ventilation. Ventilation is essential for removing stale air and pollutants from your home. Make sure that all of your rental properties have working windows and doors, and that they can be opened to create cross-ventilation. You may also want to consider installing exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom as this is a requirement for the Healthy Homes Standards.

• Improve the air quality. There are a number of things the tenant can do to improve the air quality in your rental properties, such as:
  
  • Installing air purifiers.
  • Regularly cleaning and vacuuming carpets and furniture.
  • Avoiding the use of harsh chemicals and cleaning products.
  • Keeping your rental properties dry and well-ventilated.

• Prevent mould and mildew growth. Mould and mildew thrive in damp, humid environments. To prevent mould and mildew growth in your rental properties, make sure that they are well-ventilated and that there are no leaks or moisture problems. You may also want to consider using a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels in the air.

• Maintain your rental properties. In addition to ensuring adequate ventilation and preventing mould and mildew growth, it is also important to maintain your rental properties in good condition. This includes fixing any leaks or other damage promptly, and regularly cleaning and inspecting the properties.

By following these tips, you can help to create a healthy and comfortable indoor environment for your tenants. This will not only benefit their health, but it will also make your rental properties more attractive and easier to rent out.

Here are some additional tips that may be specifically relevant to New Zealand rental properties:

• Make sure your rental properties are insulated. Insulation helps to keep your rental properties warm and dry in the winter and cool in the summer. This can help to reduce the risk of mould and mildew growth, and it can also make your rental properties more energy-efficient.

• Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for protecting your tenants from fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure that all of your rental properties have working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors on each level at the start of each tenancy.

• Keep your rental properties pest-free. Pests can carry diseases and allergens, so it is important to keep your rental properties pest-free. This includes regularly inspecting your properties for pests and taking steps to get rid of any pests that you find.

By following these tips, you can help to create a healthy and safe home for your tenants.