If you’re a landlord in Hawke’s Bay, you’ve probably heard plenty about the Healthy Homes Standards. Insulation, heating, and ventilation tend to get the most attention. But one area that often gets overlooked — and that can cause major headaches if you don’t get it right — is stormwater and drainage.
At East Coast Plumbing and Gas, we work with landlords across Napier, Hastings, and the wider region who are preparing their rentals for compliance. One of the biggest questions we hear is:
“What do the Healthy Homes Standards actually require around stormwater and drainage?”
Let’s break it down so you know exactly what’s expected before you rent out your property.
Why Stormwater Matters Under the Healthy Homes Standards
The Healthy Homes Standards include a Moisture Ingress and Drainage requirement. This means every rental must have:
- An efficient drainage system that removes stormwater, surface water, and groundwater.
- Working gutters, downpipes, and drains to take roof water away from the house.
- A safe and appropriate place to discharge that water – usually the council stormwater system or a designated soakage area.
The reason is simple: if stormwater isn’t managed properly, it creates dampness, mould, and unhealthy living conditions inside the home.
Do I Need a Moisture Barrier Under the House?
Another common question from landlords is: “Do I need to install a ground moisture barrier?”
The answer is: yes, if your property has an enclosed subfloor (a crawl space under the house with little airflow). In that case, you’ll usually need to install a polythene sheet or equivalent product to block ground moisture rising into the home.
The barrier must:
- Meet NZS 4246:2016 standards, or
- Have a vapour flow resistance of at least 50 MNs/g, installed correctly.
If it’s not practicable to install – for example, if access is unsafe or would cause major building work – you may be exempt. But you’ll need evidence, ideally from a professional installer, to back that up.
What Happens If I Don’t Comply with the Healthy Homes Stormwater Standards?
From 1 July 2025, all private rentals in New Zealand must fully comply with the Healthy Homes Standards. If your property doesn’t meet the drainage and moisture requirements:
- You could face penalties up to $7,200 from the Tenancy Tribunal.
- You’ll also be liable for tenant complaints, legal disputes, and the cost of urgent repairs.
It’s not worth the risk. A leaking downpipe or a blocked drain can quickly turn into an expensive problem.
How Do I Prove Compliance?
Every tenancy agreement must now include a Healthy Homes compliance statement. This shows tenants exactly how your property measures up against the standards.
As a landlord, you also need to:
- Keep records (photos, invoices, compliance reports).
- Provide evidence within 21 days if your tenant requests it.
This paperwork is just as important as the physical work – missing documents can still land you with penalties.
What Should Hawke’s Bay Landlords Do Next?
Here’s a simple checklist before you rent out your property:
- Inspect the drainage – check all gutters, downpipes, and drains are clear and discharging properly.
- Look under the house – if it’s enclosed, assess whether a moisture barrier is needed.
- Get professional advice – if you’re unsure about compliance or exemptions, ask a licensed plumber or drainlayer.
- Document everything – keep receipts, reports, and photos in case you need to prove compliance.
How East Coast Plumbing and Gas Can Help
We’ve been working with Hawke’s Bay landlords to bring properties up to Healthy Homes Standards since they were first introduced. Our team can:
- Inspect your property’s stormwater and drainage system.
- Install or repair gutters, downpipes, and drains.
- Supply and install compliant ground moisture barriers.
- Provide compliance documentation for your tenancy records.
Contact us today
Healthy Homes compliance doesn’t just tick a box – it protects your investment and keeps your tenants safe. By getting your stormwater and drainage sorted now, you’ll avoid costly penalties and future repair bills.
If you’re a landlord in Napier, Hastings, or wider Hawke’s Bay and want peace of mind, get in touch with East Coast Plumbing and Gas today. We’ll make sure your rental is dry, compliant, and ready for tenants.
📞 Call us today or visit eastcoastplumbingandgas.co.nz to book a Healthy Homes drainage check.
