Understanding Draught Stopping in Rental Homes
In New Zealand, there are rules to make sure rental homes are cosy and warm. One
important rule is about draught stopping, which helps keep homes free from chilly
drafts.
What Are Draughts?
Draughts are like sneaky little breezes that find their way into your home through
gaps in windows, doors, and walls. They can make a room feel cold and
uncomfortable, especially in winter.
Draught Stopping Standard
According to the Healthy Homes Standards, rental homes need to meet certain
levels of draught stopping. This means making sure there aren't any sneaky gaps
where cold air can get in. It's like putting up barriers to keep the cold outside where it
belongs.
Windows and Doors
One important part of draught stopping is making sure windows and doors are
sealed properly. This means using things like rubber seals and weather stripping to
fill in any gaps. It's like putting on a warm coat to keep the cold out.
Exemptions
Sometimes, certain homes might not need to follow these rules. These are called
exemptions. Here are some reasons why a home might be exempt:
1. Location: If a home is in a place where it doesn't get very windy or cold, it
might not need as much draught stopping.
2. Design: Some homes are built in a way that makes it really hard to stop
draughts. In these cases, they might be exempt.
3. Condition: If a home is going to be demolished soon or if adding draught
stopping would damage the home, it might be exempt.