Water charges can be a source of confusion for both landlords and tenants in rental properties in Queensland. This is because the rules around water charges differ from state to state, and even within the same state, they can vary between regions. In this article, we will explain how water charges are handled in rental properties in Queensland.
Water charging arrangements in Queensland
In Queensland, water charging arrangements are governed by the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (the Act) and the Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008 (the WSRA). These Acts set out the rules for how water charges can be apportioned between landlords and tenants.
The Act allows landlords to pass on the full cost of water consumption charges to tenants if certain conditions are met. Firstly, the property must be individually metered, which means that each unit in a multi-unit complex has its own water meter. Secondly, the property must be water efficient, which means that it meets the criteria for a water-efficient property as set out in the WSRA.
What is a water-efficient property?
A water-efficient property is one that meets the following criteria:
- All internal cold water taps and single mixer taps (excluding bathtub taps, taps for appliances, and taps for garden use) must have a maximum flow rate of 9 litres per minute.
- All toilets must be dual flush, with a maximum average flush volume of 3.5 litres for a full flush and 3 litres for a half flush.
- All showerheads must have a maximum flow rate of 9 litres per minute.
- All internal cold water taps, except those serving a bath, must be fitted with a water flow restrictor.
If a rental property meets these criteria, the landlord is entitled to pass on the full cost of water consumption charges to the tenant.
How are water charges calculated?
Water consumption charges are calculated by the local water authority based on the amount of water used by the property. In Queensland, the local water authority is usually the council or a utility company. Water charges can include both fixed charges and usage charges. Fixed charges are a set fee that is charged regardless of the amount of water used, while usage charges are based on the amount of water consumed.
If a rental property meets the criteria for a water-efficient property, the landlord can pass on the full cost of water consumption charges to the tenant. However, if the property is not water efficient, the landlord can only pass on a portion of the water consumption charges, based on the proportion of water used by the tenant. This is usually calculated based on the number of occupants in the property, as determined by the local water authority.
What if the property is not individually metered?
If a rental property is not individually metered, the landlord cannot pass on the full cost of water consumption charges to the tenant. Instead, the landlord must pay for the water charges and can only pass on a portion of the cost to the tenant, based on the proportion of water used by the tenant. This is usually calculated based on the number of occupants in the property, as determined by the local water authority.
In summary, water charges can be a source of confusion for both landlords and tenants in rental properties in Queensland. However, by understanding the rules around water charging arrangements, landlords and tenants can avoid disputes and ensure that they are meeting their obligations under the Act and the WSRA. If you have any questions about water charges in rental properties, it is recommended that you seek professional advice.