Kathryn - your local editor

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Leaky Homes in New Zealand

Summer cyclone weather is proving to be a real problem for rain soaked areas like Waimarama. But they aren’t the only ones suffering from water damage on their properties.

In a NZ Herald article late last year (24th Nov 2011), Roger Levie, chief executive of the Home Owners and Buyers Association, reminded readers of NZ Herald that the leaky home crisis was still one of the biggest problems for a large portion of homeowners in this country. The numbers on the Department of Building and Housing website confirms that (based on reports suggesting only 3,500 homes have been repaired of approximately 42,000 leaky homes total). 

These issues reveal how dampness is not only a constant danger to a building's integrity, but also to our health. A recent article in the NZ Herald (17 Jan 2012), reported that black mould spotted in an Auckland council building emptied the place, because it was such a serious health risk for those with respiratory sensitivities.

It is important to be careful when renovating, and to:

• choose proper materials
• consider the affect of exterior changes (especially when adding skylights and windows)
• stay alert to signs of leaking or dampness.
  

And remember, when in doubt, seek the services of a specialist.

The '4Ds' of Weathertightness

The Department of Building and Housing, lists the ‘4Ds’ of weathertightness as:

1. Deflection
2. Drainage
3. Drying
4. Durability

In short, choose materials and construction methods which will allow water to be deflected away, to drain (even from behind cladding), to dry (through good ventilation), and to last.

Resources for Understanding the Issue and Building Better Homes

There are also external factors that are related to leaky homes in New Zealand. A comprehensive guide to leaky home risk factors and environmental zones, is available on the Consumer Build website. The guides also detail why certain designs are more susceptible to water problems.

Likewise you can read more about weathertightness solutions on the Department of Housing and Building website, www.dbh.govt.nz.

Although Hawke’s Bay usually enjoys a relatively mild and sunny climate, parts will be affected by coastal weather such as sea spray, and these floods are a good reminder to always be vigilant about water damage.

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Jill