Living in a cold, damp rental can affect the health of you and your family. Depending on your circumstances, you could be eligible for some practical support.
Healthy home assessment
The Ministry of Health funds some Healthy Homes Initiatives for those experiencing health issues as a result of cold, damp housing. Each service is different, but they all aim to provide vulnerable people with practical support and advice. A healthy homes assessor will visit you in your home to talk through your issues.
Depending on your needs, and how the service operates, support could range from fast-tracking a social housing application to supplying beds and heaters.
To find out if you’re eligible, contact the Healthy Homes Initiative in your area.
Northland: Manawa Ora, 09 438 1015, [email protected]
Auckland and Waitemata: Kainga Ora, 021733016, [email protected]
Manukau: Auckland-Wide Healthy Homes Initiative (AWHI), 09 950 3325, [email protected]
Waikato: Whare Ora, 0800 9427 3672, [email protected]
Rotorua and Turangi: Healthy Homes Service, [email protected]
Bay of Plenty: Healthy Homes BOP, 07 571 5390, [email protected]
East Coast: Ngati Porou Hauora HHI, 06 867 8550, [email protected]
Gisborne: Turanga Health HHI, 06 869 0457, [email protected]
Hawke’s Bay: Child Healthy Housing Programme, 06 879 9440, [email protected]
Wellington & Hutt Valley: Well Homes, 04 570 9002, [email protected]
Where else can I go for help?
Eco Design Advisors work at local councils and can provide free home assessments, for both homeowners and tenants.
They can check the house’s insulation and also give advice on ways to prevent draughts, heat your home, and energy savings measures that will help to lower your power bills.
Auckland Council, Hamilton City Council, Palmerston North City Council, Nelson City Council, Hutt City Council, Kapiti Coast District Council, and Christchurch City Council all have Eco Design Advisers who can provide free home assessments, for both homeowners and tenants.
For more information, check our advice on heating, dampness and ventilation, and mould and your landlord’s responsibilities.
A renter's guide to a warmer home
Our free guide provides advice and tips on what you can do to make your home warmer, cosier and cheaper to heat.
Why is this free?
This report is free thanks to funding from the Ministry of Health.
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