Tenant Rights & Healthy Homes

A Standard of Quality for Every Cambridge Home

At Ray White Cambridge, we believe everyone deserves a warm, dry, and safe place to call home. Renting in 2026 means being protected by some of the most robust tenancy laws in the world. This guide outlines your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act and the Healthy Homes Standards.

The Five Healthy Homes Pillars

By July 1, 2025, all private rental properties in New Zealand were required to comply with the Healthy Homes Standards. When you move into a Ray White managed property, you can expect:

1. Heating: A fixed heater (like a high-capacity heat pump) in the main living area capable of reaching 18°C.
2. Insulation: Modern ceiling and underfloor insulation that meets 2008 Building Code R-values.
3. Ventilation: Appropriately sized windows in every habitable room and high-spec extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
4. Moisture Ingress & Drainage: Efficient guttering and downpipes, plus a ground moisture barrier for homes with a sub-floor space.
5. Draught Stopping: No unreasonable gaps or holes in walls, windows, or doors that cause a noticeable breeze.

New for 2026: Pets and Compliance

The rental landscape has evolved significantly with recent law changes:

• Pet Bonds: Since late 2025, landlords can no longer issue “blanket bans” on pets without reasonable grounds.In exchange, landlords may now request a Pet Bond (up to 2 weeks’ rent) to provide extra security against pet-related damage.
• Methamphetamine Regulations: As of April 16, 2026, new regulations clarify contamination levels and testing requirements, ensuring your home is verified as safe before you move in.
• Notice Periods: If your landlord wants to move back into the property or sell it, they must provide specific notice periods (typically 63 or 90 days depending on the situation).

Your Rights as a Tenant

• Quiet Enjoyment: You have the right to enjoy your home without unnecessary disturbance from the landlord or property manager.
• Rent Increases: Rent can only be increased once every 12 months, and you must receive at least 60 days’ written notice.
• Maintenance: You have the right to have essential repairs (like plumbing or electrical) attended to promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can a landlord refuse my request for a pet?
A: Under the 2025/2026 reforms, a landlord can only refuse a pet on “reasonable grounds” (e.g., the property is too small for a large dog, or local council bylaws prohibit it).They must respond to your written request within 21 days.

Q: What happens if my rental doesn’t feel “Healthy Homes” compliant?
A: You have the right to request a copy of the Healthy Homes Compliance Statement for your property at any time. If the home falls short, we work quickly with the owner to bring the property up to code.

Q: How often can the property manager inspect the house?
A: Inspections can occur once every 4 weeks, though at Ray White Cambridge, we typically conduct them every 3–4 months. You must be given at least 48 hours’ notice (and no more than 14 days’ notice) before an inspection.