Water Efficiency Standards for NSW Rental Properties
Awareness of your rights and obligations, either as a landlord or tenant, is crucial, especially concerning utility expenses and adherence to standards. Overlooking these regulations can lead not only to financial implications but also to potential legal actions. Emphasising energy and water efficiency for rental properties isn’t just good practice; it’s mandated by the tenancy laws in NSW. Let’s delve deeper into some key points:
Who Bears the Water Costs in NSW?
In most scenarios in NSW, landlords are responsible for covering all water supply and sewerage service charges. Tenants are typically exempt from these costs, except in cases where the water supply is separately metered or delivered by a vehicle. It’s important to check the tenancy agreement for these details, and any clarifications should be sought from the property agent or landlord.
Moreover, before a landlord can bill a tenant for water, the property needs to comply with the ‘water efficiency’ standards.
NSW Water Efficiency Standards and Required Standards
No leaking taps or toilets
No leaking taps or toilets anywhere on the property at the start of the tenancy and whenever the other water efficiency measures are installed, repaired or upgraded
Shower heads
Maximum flow rate of 9 litres per minute
Internal cold water taps and single mixer taps for kitchen sinks or bathroom hand basins
Maximum flow rate of 9 litres per minute.*
The 9 litres per minute flow rate does not apply to other taps in the property, including bathtub taps,
laundry taps, outside taps for the garden, or taps for washing machines and dishwashers.
Dual flush toilets
From 23 March 2025: all toilets on the property must be dual flush and have a minimum 3-star WELS rating
This information is sourced from the Fair Trading NSW website as of August 6, 2023.
Validating Water Efficiency
Details on water efficiency measures are usually outlined in the condition report. If tenants need further proof, they can request evidence from the landlord or agent. Additionally, any replacement showerheads or taps must adhere to the water efficiency guidelines. If landlords intend to pass on water supply charges to tenants, these standards are non-negotiable. For any additional details or clarifications, reaching out to your property agent or Fair Trading is advised.
Get the right plumbing advice for your property’s Water Efficiency Compliance
By choosing Activ Plumbing Solutions for your Water Efficiency Compliance inspection, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are receiving top-quality service from industry experts. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and experience the benefits of our comprehensive Water Efficiency Compliance service.