VENTILATION STANDARD
Good ventilation is key to preventing mould, damp, and condensation. The Healthy Homes Standards require proper airflow through windows and mechanical ventilation in moisture-prone areas.
All living spaces must have openable windows or doors to the outside. Kitchens and bathrooms must have externally vented extractor fans to remove moisture effectively, especially when cooking or showering.
COMMON VENTILATION COMPLIANCE QUESTIONS
What is the window requirement? Each habitable room must have at least one openable window or door to the outdoors. The total openable area must equal five per cent of the floor space.
Do extractor fans need to be a certain size? Yes- fans installed after 1 July 2019 must meet minimum airflow standards: Kitchens: 50L / sec or 150mm diameter Bathrooms: 25L / sec or 120mm diameter
Are older fans compliant? If they were installed before 1 July 2019, they must vent to the outside and be in good working condition( e. g., ducting connected and not blocked).
Are there any exemptions? Yes- if it’ s not reasonably practicable to install a compliant fan or if the room was legally built without one and still meets the original building standard.
LANDLORD INFORMATION GUIDE 23