Substandard South Auckland housing: findings from a healthy homes initiative temperature study

Abstract

ABSTRACT There is strong evidence demonstrating cold housing prevalence in Aotearoa New Zealand. Whānau (families) were recruited from a healthy homes programme based in South Auckland. Forty whānau consented to participate in a temperature-based study that assessed the ability of homes to protect against outdoor temperatures. In this observational study, temperature sensors measured night-time indoor temperature every 15 min from May 2020 to October 2020. Whānau were provided with healthy homes education and practical suggestions to help make homes warmer and dryer. Notably, each device (and house) spent 85% or more of the time below the World Health Organization Housing and Health Guidelines recommended minimum indoor temperature of 20°C for vulnerable groups. The lower standard of 18°C for more general populations referenced in the Healthy Homes Standards was not met over 60% of the time. Over a quarter of the time temperatures measured inside homes were below 12°C. If Māori and Pacific whānau continue to live in substandard housing due to residential inequities, they will continue to experience inequitable health outcomes related to cold housing. Solutions include the anticipated Residential Tenancies (Healthy Homes Standards) Regulations, supports for tenants and support with housing-related costs.