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.

Ben Tutty
Last updated: 24 February 2026 | 6 min read
AI

AI summary

Buying a home with monolithic cladding requires caution due to the leaky homes crisis. Properties built between 1987-2005 are higher risk, as poor building practices often led to trapped moisture, causing rot and mould.

Watch for warning signs like sagging ceilings, mould, and swollen materials. With repair costs often exceeding $330,000, a specialised building inspection focusing on moisture is essential to assess the property's true condition before you commit to buying.

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

Ben Tutty Ben Tutty
Content Writer