With New Zealand recently experiencing significant drops in temperature, it can only mean one thing: significant rises in energy bills. This month, we even saw electricity demands reach an all-time high as Kiwi’s around the country shield themselves from the cold and try to stay warm in their homes. Heating homes often comes at a high cost. However, to avoid the dread of opening your electricity bill, there are budget-friendly measures you can take that help keep your home warm.

Condensation, caused by excess levels of moisture and damp, allow for the ideal breeding ground for mould. When mould forms, it has significant negative effects on properties and tenants alike. From deterioration of the home to severe respiratory illnesses, the effects caused by damp form a lengthy list. However, the list of solutions to prevent such events from occurring is relatively short in comparison.

People spend a lot of time and expense trying to heat their homes in the colder months, but this can be a useless exercise if you are battling against draughts allowing cold air in and warm air out.

There are always exceptions to rules, even the Healthy Homes Standards. However, it is vital that you understand exemption guidelines in order to avoid unnecessary fines. Along with general exemptions, there are also exemptions to individual standards.