About the project
Timeframe: 1.5 years
Total levy funding: $295,000
In New Zealand maintaining houses is often seen as expensive. But when essential repairs are put off, it leads to unhealthy, unsafe living conditions and rising costs, especially for low- and modest-income households. In 2023, researchers estimated that 90% of New Zealand homes needed maintenance, with a national bill of $27.3 billion.
Hosted by the Centre for Research Evaluation and Social Assessment (CRESA), this $295,000 Building Research Levy project aims to make home maintenance easier and more affordable by:
- Measuring the real costs and risks of delayed maintenance for households
- Developing practical solutions and tools to lower lifetime maintenance costs.
The 18-month project brings together experts from BRANZ, Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington, Community Housing Aotearoa, Rātā Foundation, iwi organisations, housing providers, architects, government agencies, and community groups.
Working with builders, regulators, and households, the team will create clear data, easy-to-use guides, and new tools. It aims to reduce long-term maintenance costs and help more New Zealanders live in safer, healthier, and more affordable homes, now and into the future.