The quality of New Zealand's housing stock is slipping again, to levels not seen since 1999, a survey of homes in Auckland, Wellington and Otago has revealed.
Building Research Association of New Zealand (Branz) recently completed its fourth House Condition Survey of 573 homes throughout the country, 26 of which were in the Otago region.
Branz building scientist Nikki Buckett said it was the largest survey and house inspection of its kind in New Zealand, and assessed housing defects with the hope of raising occupants' awareness of maintenance shortcomings.
Only two in every five houses randomly selected in the 2010 survey were in good condition - similar to the 1999 survey.
The 2005 survey found that half the homes in New Zealand were in good condition.
Ms Buckett said the 2010 survey included rental properties for the first time, which could be a reason for the deterioration in the overall condition of houses.
"The perception is generally that rental properties are in a worse condition than owner-occupied properties," she said.
The preliminary survey report, released this week, focuses on housing structures.
However, subsequent reports will follow and may include topics such as interiors, energy and water efficiency, costs, and social factors, she said.
The majority of defects found in the 2010 survey were similar to those found in past surveys.
They included poor sub-floor ventilation (blocked vents), inadequate clearance of wall claddings, missing or corroding subfloor fasteners, and poor maintenance and deterioration of timber windows.
"This suggests that maintenance on the exterior of the house is still not at the top of the to-do list for homeowners and landlords."
Ms Buckett said previous surveys included properties in Christchurch, but that city was not included this time.
Condition of New Zealand Housing
Condition 1999 2005 2010
Good condition 41% 50% 41%
Moderate condition 33% 35% 34%
Poor condition 26% 15% 25%
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