Ventilation & Drainage

Ventilation Standard

Mould and dampness caused by poor ventilation is harmful for tenants' health as well as landlords' property. The ventilation standard targets mould and dampness in rental homes.

Landlords that don't meet their obligations may be liable for exemplary damages of up to $7,200.

What is the ventilation standard?

All habitable rooms must have at least one window, door or skylight that opens to the outside and can be fixed open. The openable area must be at least 5% of the floor area of that room.

All kitchens and bathrooms must either have an extractor fan that vents air to the outside, or a continuous mechanical ventilation system.

Extractor Fan Requirements

Kitchens: minimum 150mm diameter or 50 litres/second capacity
Bathrooms: minimum 120mm diameter or 25 litres/second capacity

Check if your property meets the ventilation requirements
Duct existing rangehood or exhaust fan out
Install a new rangehood or exhaust fan
Replace existing rangehood or exhaust fan

Drainage & Guttering

Rental properties must have efficient drainage for the removal of stormwater, surface water and ground water. The drainage system must include gutters, downpipes and drains for the removal of water from the roof.

Check your guttering and drainage
Clean the gutter
Repair leaks
Install gully grate
Modify or replace existing guttering system