As winter draws near, many New Zealand homeowners might be wondering how to keep their properties cosy without spending a fortune.

One great solution? Make sure your home is adequately insulated. Not only does good insulation keep you warm in winter, but it also helps keep things cool in summer. Plus, it brings health benefits and can save you money in the long run. It’s also worth noting that ceiling and underfloor insulation have been mandatory in all rental properties since July 1, 2019[i]. 

Many older homes in New Zealand need proper insulation, which can lead to costly heating bills and rapid warmth loss. Heat tends to escape faster than heaters or air conditioning units can replenish it, making it a real challenge to keep these homes relaxed and comfortable. According to one industry report, more than a third of home heating could disappear through the ceiling, and as much as 24% of heat loss could be left through the walls[ii]. 

Think of insulating your home as giving it a warm, cosy hug. Not only does insulation keep the heat inside, saving you energy and money, but it’s also a win-win for the planet! When you use less energy, you’re actively helping to reduce the amount of harmful gases emitted into the environment from burning fossil fuels.

By adding insulation to both your ceiling and underfloor, you’re basically creating a shield against chilly drafts and pesky dampness. This means your home becomes a haven of warmth, dryness, and overall better health for you and your family. This benefit is important given that a quarter of respiratory illnesses in New Zealand are caused by living in cold, damp homes. Plus, every winter, around 1600 people sadly lose their lives due to respiratory problems, with many cases linked to cold housing[iii].

Hence, it’s no surprise that insulation ranks as the second most crucial aspect of a property for homebuyers. For a typical three-bedroom, 100-square-metre property, the cost of installing ceiling and underfloor insulation ranges from $3,000 to $5,000, with variations based on factors such as grade, joist sizes, and the chosen installer[iv]. 

If you want to sell a property this winter, don’t hesitate to contact your nearest Raine & Horne office.