News from the Valley

Want to get warmer in your home? Did you know that 20–30% of your home’s heat can be lost through your windows? Come along to a free workshop on DIY pelmets and go home with a simple solution to help insulate your windows better. Good curtains that fit well and pelmets will help improve heat retention and reduce energy costs. Fitted pelmets reduce heat loss above windows and can be made of any material as long as it creates an air barrier. Pelmets only need to be against the wall and reach to or past the curtain – they …

Hundreds more homes in North East Valley are now eligible for FREE ceiling and underfloor insulation from the government! HUNDREDS MORE homes in North East Valley have become eligible for installation of free ceiling and underfloor insulation and a vapour barrier as the government extends the ‘warm-up zones’ to include more areas. The Warmer Kiwi Homes insulation subsidies are available to home owner-occupiers who live in a designated warm-up zone. Home owner-occupiers who have a community services card or a Gold Card with community services card endorsements are eligible regardless of where they live. Warm-up zones extended Previously parts …

New rental regulations are coming in July. If you are a renter or landlord it is a good idea to check if your house is up to standard. From 1 July this year ceiling and underfloor insulation in rental properties is required where reasonably possible. Exceptions may include where there is not enough space under the floor, or in the ceiling. It is the landlord’s responsibility to meet the regulations. Ceiling insulation If the ceiling insulation was installed before July 2016 then it should be at least 70mm thick. If the insulation is still to be installed, or was …

Get a FREE home assessment to help you get ready for winter and find out more about the upcoming new insulation standards for rental properties. Hi, my name is Lisa Burrough and I’m the Eco Design Advisor at the Dunedin City Council. It’s my job to help you get the best from your house, whether you’re living in your own home, renting or own a rental property. The Healthy Homes in the Valley (formerly known as Cosy Homes) team have asked me to write a regular column to help you find ways to improve your home and hopefully I’ll …