The new standards for Insulation Regulations apply to any residential rental property covered by the Residential Tenancies Act.
How do I know whether my Insulation needs upgrading?
Insulation is measured by the R-Value and well it is able to resist heat flow. The higher the R-Value of the insulation, the better. If the ceiling and underfloor insulation was installed before July 2016, the measurement must follow be in reasonable condition and must meet the minimum required R-Values:
For Timber – Framed Homes:
For Masonry Homes:
Landlords or property owners who have failed to meet insulation requirements by July 1st 2019 will be in breach of the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). This may involve paying a penalty up to $4,000, which is usually paid to the tenant. Landlords who fail to comply even after paying penalties will face further disciplinary action. It’s also important to note that landlords who have more than one tenancy can face separate damages for each property that doesn’t meet regulations.
Ensuring you make a conscious effort to get your property up to speed with the latest regulations is the best way to avoid fines and keep your tenants safe and warm.