In a nutshell

Size it right

You'll need to use the heating assessment tool or the appropriate formula in the regulations to confirm you've got the right sized heater for your main living room.

This will be the main way most rentals will need to comply with the heating standard, but there are alternative options.

Find out more about the healthy homes heating standard(external link)

Heating assessment tool(external link)

Healthy homes standards regulations - Schedule 2 (formula)(external link)

Keep it fixed

The heating source needs to be fixed, so plugging in a spare heater won’t do the trick.

Location, location, location

The standard only applies to the main living room. If your rental property has more than one living room, then only the largest living room needs to be heated.

Keep it consistent

If the heating you provide is an electric heater or heat pump make sure it has a thermostat. That small piece of technology will make the heating more consistent and help tenants use it efficiently.

Check out the full details on the heating standard(external link)

Top tips

Don’t wait: insulate!

It’s best to make sure your insulation is up to standard. Then, any heating sources will be much more efficient.

Get a professional in

If in doubt, speak to a pro. Most new heating will need to be installed by a licensed electrical worker or registered gasfitter. Wood and pellet burners require council consent for installation.

Just a wee bit more

If you already have a fixed heating source, then it might just need a top up to meet the heating standards. Some types of heaters can’t be used to meet the standard as they are either inefficient, unaffordable to operate and/or unhealthy to run.

Check out the full details on the heating requirements.(external link)

Ready to raise the standard?