Environmental monitoring and thermal performance of New Zealand rental housing: an exploratory study

ABSTRACT This paper presents an exploratory analysis undertaken to investigate the thermal performance of a typical rental property in New Zealand. A literature review of the conditions of New Zealand housing and thermal performance studies is followed by a case study in a rental property in Auckland, New Zealand for one month of a typical winter season. Over this period, both indoor and outdoor climate variables were measured, including humidity and temperature. These measurements were supplemented by a site inspection, a questionnaire completed by the housing occupants, and a recording of their activities. The study indicated that the thermal performance of the dwelling was poor, such that the occupants could be expected to be at risk of adverse health outcomes as a result. Correlational analysis carried out on the outdoor and indoor sensor data, as well as thermal performance analysis, highlight the extent of the cold and dampness of the dwelling due to a lack of heating appliances, inadequate insulation and occupants’ energy consumption behaviours with respect to heating. This study suggests a promising low-cost approach for public/state housing agencies to collect information on housing conditions and for monitoring household thermal performance and the risk of inadequate conditions on occupants.