Draught stopping is a practical Healthy Homes issue that often appears in older rentals. Small gaps can be normal, but unreasonable gaps or holes that cause noticeable draughts should be identified and repaired.
Official reference: For official wording, check Tenancy Services guidance on the Healthy Homes draught stopping standard. Tenancy Services draught stopping standard
What the Draught Stopping Standard Covers
Rental properties must not have unreasonable gaps or holes in walls, ceilings, windows, skylights, floors and doors that cause noticeable draughts.
This sits alongside the general obligation to keep rental premises in a reasonable state of repair.
Where Draught Gaps Are Commonly Found
Common locations include external doors, timber windows, floorboard gaps, unused vents, old fireplaces, ceiling penetrations, service penetrations and gaps around older joinery.
During inspection we look for visible gaps and signs that air movement may be unreasonable.
The 3mm Rule of Thumb
Tenancy Services guidance commonly refers to gaps or holes greater than 3mm that let air into or out of the home as items that usually require blocking to prevent unreasonable draughts.
This is a practical guide, not a substitute for checking the official standard and the specific property circumstances.
Common Repair Options
Repair may involve weather seals, door sweeps, gap sealant, patching holes, replacing damaged trim, fixing joinery defects or blocking unused openings.
Repairs should be durable and appropriate to the location, not just temporary tape or foam that quickly fails.
Inspection Limitations
Some draught issues are weather-dependent and may not be fully observable on the inspection day. Furniture, curtains, floor coverings or access limitations may also restrict visibility.
Where a defect is suspected but not fully confirmed, further checking or repair by a suitable trade may be recommended.
Practical Inspection Checklist
This checklist is designed for practical site visibility. It is not a substitute for legal advice or specialist testing where required.
Common Issues We Find
- Large gaps under external doors
- Damaged or missing weather seals
- Old timber windows with obvious air gaps
- Holes around pipes or cables
- Unused fireplaces not properly blocked
- Gaps around floorboards or wall linings
- Temporary foam or tape repairs failing
Need a Healthy Homes Assessment?
Send the property address, listing link if available, property type and any known issues. We can help you turn visible concerns into a practical repair or further-checking list.
Phone: 022 193 5800
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is an unreasonable draught gap?
A gap or hole that causes a noticeable draught may be unreasonable. Tenancy Services guidance commonly uses gaps greater than 3mm as a rule of thumb.
Do all small gaps need sealing?
Not necessarily. The issue is whether the gap or hole causes an unreasonable draught and whether it should be blocked or repaired.
Where are draught issues most common?
External doors, older timber windows, floor penetrations, unused fireplaces and holes around services are common areas.
Can draught issues be fixed as maintenance?
Many draught issues can be fixed with suitable building maintenance, seals, door hardware adjustment or patching. Some joinery issues may need a specialist.
Can Cozy inspect draught stopping?
Yes. We can visually check common draught areas and provide practical repair recommendations, subject to access and inspection conditions.
General guidance only: This information is general guidance only and should not be taken as legal advice. Healthy Homes requirements may depend on the specific property, tenancy situation and any applicable exemptions. Where required, further specialist assessment or confirmation may be recommended.