Buying guide
Should I buy a monolithic cladding house? Understanding NZ leaky homes
Properties with plaster or monolithic cladding can be risky purchases, but they're not all leaky.
AI summary
Buying a monolithic cladding home requires caution due to NZ's leaky homes crisis, particularly for properties built between 1987-2005. These homes can trap moisture, leading to rot, mould, and significant health risks.
Warning signs include sagging ceilings and swollen materials. Repairs can exceed $330,000, and securing insurance may be difficult.
A specialised building inspection is essential to assess watertightness before purchasing, though homes built post-2005 with a proper drainage cavity are lower risk.
What exactly is a leaky home?
What caused the NZ leaky homes crisis?
Monolithic cladding — the main culprit?
Not all plaster homes leak, but they may be at a higher risk.
How can I spot a leaky home?
If you keep your eyes open during a property inspection you may be able to spot signs that a home is leaky.
Not all plaster homes are leaky but they should be approached with caution.
The cost of fixing a leaky home
Should I buy a monolithic cladding house?
FAQs — Navigating leaky homes in NZ
Author
Search
Other articles you might like
