The leaky home crisis in New Zealand affects a large number of houses across the country. However, it is important to note the difference between a home that is leaking due to a plumbing problem, and a home that is leaky due to water seeping through its structure and causing damage. A way to fix the latter is to hire a company like Outlast Builders who specialise in recladding a leaky home! 

So, what exactly makes a home ‘leaky’? In this blog, we will explore this further, examining the reason for the leaky home crisis and what signs to look out for that could indicate that your home is leaky. 

Let’s jump right into it!

Why are Homes Leaky?

Houses that were built from the mid-1990s to around 2004 are more likely to be leaky homes as they often did not comply with the New Zealand Building Code. As a result, these homes were poorly constructed, whether that was from design or materials used. 

This meant that these homes were not built to withstand New Zealand weather, so water and moisture could easily seep through, for example, the cladding, becoming trapped as there was no drainage or ventilation in between. This enabled the growth of fungi, increasing the rate of structural deterioration. 

Signs That a House is Leaky

There are certain signs to look out for when it comes to determining whether your home is leaky. These include:

• Musty odours 
• Mould or fungi on surfaces
• Lifted or warped flooring (especially prominent with vinyl flooring)
• Sagging ceiling linings 
• Rusty nails and screws 
• Unexplained stains on carpet (damp or rotting)
• Cracks in walls 
• Bulging or swollen building materials (skirtings, architraves)
• Dripping or pooling of water

If you spot the above within your home, it is important to get your home assessed by a certified weathertightness building surveyor to confirm the damage and its extent. 

If you have a leaky home, then Outlast Builders offer exceptional services for recladding a leaky home in Auckland. Get in touch with us if you would like to learn more about our recladding services or if you have any questions.