Basic standards for rental properties

Before you sign a rental agreement, use the following guidelines to check that the house is suitable for habitation. These are a guide only and may not be enforceable under current legislation.

All rooms

All rooms should be as free as possible from dampness
Each room should have adequate ventilation and artificial lighting
All walls and ceilings should be adequately lined and finished and easily cleaned
Every room should be adequately floored with a washable and durable surface and kept in a good state of repair, free from crevices, holes and depressions
All fittings and any supplied appliances should be kept in a good state of repair
Electricity and gas supplies must be adequate and safe against fire or injury
Each room should be moisture resistant, from outside or other tenancies.
A fire escape and safeguards against the outbreak of fire should be provided

Kitchen

The kitchen should have:

Space and facilities for the hygienic storage, preparation and cooking of food
A utensil-washing sink with taps connected to an adequate supply of potable water

Living areas and bedrooms

A fireplace and chimney, or an energy source for a heating appliance should be provided

Toilet and bathroom

The toilet should be installed in a sanitary manner
They should allow for privacy, effective cleaning and should discharge into a plumbing and drainage system
A bath or shower with an adequate supply of wholesome water should be provided along with an adequate means of heating the water

Laundry

Facilities and space should be available for laundry equipment. If the landlord supplies these appliances they should be adequately maintained
An energy source, hot and cold running water and adequate drainage should be provided

External

The house should be constructed of sound, durable, weatherproof materials and maintained in good condition
Every house should be provided with adequate and efficient drainage to remove storm water, surface water and ground water
Wherever there is timber floor, there should be adequate space and vents underneath to ensure proper ventilation for the protection of the floor from damp and decay

Condensation and mildew

Condensation and subsequent mildew growth can be caused by construction faults but is more commonly caused by moisture generated within the house, such as from cooking, showering, or failure to ventilate. The average adult releases 1/2 litre of water per day just by breathing, so it is important to keep all rooms well ventilated.

Last reviewed: 19 Mar 2009 1:51pm