RENTING

We all want to be able to live in secure, healthy and resilient housing, despite climate change. To do this, we need suitable housing that protects us from the heat, cold and storms. Energy efficient housing also keeps the bills down and health costs low.

Understanding the flood risk of a property you're renting can help you make a plan to protect your whanau and belongings.

Auckland Flood Viewer shows four types of flood risk:

1. Floodplains

Areas that could flood if rivers or streams overflow during a big storm.

2. Flood Prone Areas

Low lying areas where water can become trapped and pool during heavy rain, particularly if the stormwater network is blocked or reaches capacity.

3. Overland Flow Paths

The natural routes water takes across the ground during heavy rain when there is no stormwater network, or the stormwater network reaches capacity.

If a property is on or near an overland flow path, fast moving water may flow across the land during heavy rain.

4. Coastal Inundation

Coastal areas that could be affected by flooding from the sea during large storms.

This is a guide, not a guarantee. Flood risks can change over time.

Tip: If you're searching for rentals on Trade Me, you may also see Flood Viewer information displayed on eligible property listings.

Check out the Flood Viewer here→

Insulation

Ask to see the Healthy Homes compliance statement to confirm the property has ceiling and underfloor insulation where required.

Ventilation

Check that windows open easily and that the kitchen and bathroom have working extractor fans.

Heating

Check there is a fixed heater, such as a heat pump, in the main living area. Ask which rooms it heats or cools.

Damp and mould

Look for mould, water stains, peeling paint, musty smells or condensation on windows. These can be signs of moisture problems.

Windows and doors

Check that windows and doors open, close and seal properly. Look for damaged frames or noticeable gaps that could let in cold air or moisture.

Double glazing

Check if the property has double glazed windows. They can help reduce heat loss, condensation and outside noise.

Summer shade

Look for eaves, awnings, shade sails or mature trees that provide shade over windows and help keep the home cooler in summer.

Energy efficient features

Look for LED lighting, energy efficient appliances and full length, lined curtains to help improve comfort and reduce power bills.

Sun light

Notice how much natural sunlight the home gets, particularly in the main living areas. This can make the home warmer and drier during winter.

Drainage

Check that gutters and downpipes appear to be in good condition, and look for signs of water pooling around the property.

Healthy Homes Standards

The Healthy Homes Standards are the minimum legal requirements for rental properties in New Zealand:

Main living area must have a fixed heater, such as a heat pump.
Ceiling and underfloor insulation must meet minimum requirements where practical.
Kitchens and bathrooms must have extractor fans, and living areas must have windows or doors that open to the outside.
Properties must have drainage to carry water away from the home and reduce damp.
Landlords must fix unreasonable draughts, gaps or holes that let in cold air.

After storms or floods

If your rental property is damaged by a storm or flood, contact your landlord or property manager as soon as possible.

Landlords are responsible for:

Maintaining the property in a reasonable condition.
Paying for any damage to the property caused by a natural disaster.
Drying the property if it has water damage and paying tenants for any electricity charges incurred.
If part of the property can't be lived in, the rent should reduce accordingly.
If you're required to move out while repairs are being completed, you won't have to pay rent until the property can be lived in again.
If the property is destroyed or can't be lived in at all, landlords need to give 7 days' notice and tenants need to give 2 days' notice to end the tenancy.

Healthy homes resources for tenants →

Healthy homes requirements for landlords →

Tenant and landlord responsibilities after a natural disaster →

Stay warm and dry in winter

Use and close full length curtains before sunset.

Use removable draught stoppers around doors and windows.

Open windows for a few minutes each day to reduce condensation.

Use moisture absorbers (like baking soda or charcoal) in damp areas.

Layer rugs over hard floors to keep warmth in.

Stay cool in summer

Use light curtains or blinds to block heat during the day and open them at night to let cooler air in.

Create a cross breeze by opening windows on opposite sides of your home.

Use pedestal or ceiling fans to improve airflow. A bowl of ice in front of a fan is like do-it-yourself air conditioning

Check if you can install a shade sail.

Set your heat pump between 18°C and 21°C.
Switch appliances off at the wall when you're not using them.
Wash clothes in cold water and only run full loads.
Take shorter showers or install a water efficient showerhead.
Choose an electricity plan that suits how you use energy.(some provide free energy on the weekend or cheaper energy at night).

Explore energy saving tips →

News New Report For Aucklanders 1780X540

FEATURE STORY

Renting in Tāmaki Makaurau

How Aucklanders can better prepare for flooding and storms

TOOLS AND RESOURCES

Select subject

Select file type

Auckland Flood Viewer

Explore the flood and sea-level rise map and find resources about how to prepare for floods.

Website

HomeFit Assessment Tool

HomeFit is a straightforward way to check how your home can be kept warm, dry and safe.

Website

Renting and Climate Change in Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland

A study of attitudes and actions in the residential property sector.

PDF

Top tips for energy-efficient homes

How to make your house warmer, drier and more energy-efficient.

Website

View all resources

RENTING

Check Auckland Flood Viewer first