> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.ratemyflat.co.nz/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Draught-stopping standard

> How to stop heat from escaping through gaps and fireplaces.

Even a well-insulated home will be cold if there are "unreasonable" draughts whistling through gaps in doors, windows, and walls.

## The "unreasonable draught" rule

Landlords must block any gaps or holes in walls, ceilings, windows, doors, and floors that cause an unreasonable draught.

While the law doesn't define "unreasonable" with a specific measurement, MBIE guidance suggests that any gap in an external door or window larger than **3mm** (roughly the thickness of a NZ \$2 coin) should generally be sealed.

## Fireplaces and chimneys

Unused open fireplaces are one of the biggest sources of heat loss in older NZ homes.

* **Unused fireplaces:** These must be blocked, or the chimney must be sealed, so that air cannot travel through them.
* **Used fireplaces:** If the tenant and landlord agree in writing that the fireplace will be used, it must be in good working order and free from gaps that cause unreasonable draughts.

## How to check for draughts

You can do a DIY audit of your home's air-tightness:

* **The candle test:** On a windy day, move a safely shielded candle (or an incense stick) around the edges of closed windows and doors. If the flame flickers, you've found a draught.
* **The visual check:** If you can see daylight through the gap between a door and its frame, it needs a seal.
* **Floorboards:** Check for large gaps in timber floors, especially around the skirting boards.

## Tenant DIY vs. landlord action

Landlords are responsible for structural fixes, but tenants can make quick improvements:

* **Door snakes:** Use weighted fabric snakes to stop air coming under internal doors.
* **Draught tape:** You can buy adhesive foam or rubber stripping from a hardware store for a few dollars to seal window gaps.
* **Thermal curtains:** Heavy curtains are excellent at stopping "glass-chill" draughts.

<Warning>
  Do not perform permanent modifications (like caulking or drilling) without written permission from your landlord.
</Warning>

## If the standard isn't met

If your home has significant gaps or an unblocked chimney, it is non-compliant. You should:

1. **Report the specific gaps** to your landlord in writing.
2. **Reference the HHS draught-stopping standard.**
3. **Issue a 14-day notice to remedy** if no action is taken.

## Sources

* [Tenancy Services — Draught-stopping standard](https://www.tenancy.govt.nz/healthy-homes/draught-stopping-standard/)
* [MBIE — Healthy Homes Standards Guidance Document](https://www.mbie.govt.nz/assets/healthy-homes-standards-guide.pdf)