Under the healthy homes heating standard, landlords have to provide one or more fixed heaters in the main living room that can heat the room to at least 18˚C. The main living room is the largest room that is used for general, everyday living, eg, the lounge or dining room.
A heating assessment tool for landlords is available to determine what kind of heater they need to install for the particular space. This is something that tenants can check too to see if the heating that’s in their home is likely to comply.
Open fireplaces and unflued gas heaters will not meet the standard. Portable electric heaters are also not sufficient. If the living space is very small, a fixed electric heater may meet the test, but for most houses a heat pump, flued gas heater or modern wood burner will be required.
The Healthy Homes heating standard provides more detailed information and guidance.
Quick tip
It's best for tenants to avoid using unflued gas heaters. These heaters produce moisture and can have adverse effects on health, especially for those with asthma and other respiratory problems.
Find out more about the health effects of unflued gas heaters
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