Understanding Water Charging
At V & Co. Realty, we believe in fostering transparent and fair relationships between landlords and tenants. Water charging in tenancy agreements is a crucial aspect that requires clear guidelines and understanding from both parties. As a landlord, ensuring compliance with regulations and a fair billing process is paramount. Here’s a comprehensive guide to navigating water charging in your tenancy agreements.
Conditions for Tenant Water Charging
Under specific conditions, tenants can be charged for water consumption:
- Individual Metering: The property must be individually metered or have water delivered by vehicle.
- Water Efficiency: The property needs to meet water efficiency standards as outlined in the tenancy agreement.
- Agreement Clause: The tenancy agreement must explicitly state that the tenant is responsible for paying water consumption charges.
The property owner must pay all fixed charges, including sewerage charges. The tenant cannot be charged more than the billable amount.
Water Efficiency Standards
A property is only considered water efficient if its fixtures meet certain criteria:
- Internal Cold Water Taps and Single Mixer Taps: Maximum flow rate of 9 litres per minute
- Showerheads: Maximum flow rate of 9 litres per minute
- Toilets: Dual flush function not exceeding 6.5 litres on full flush and 3.5 litres on half flush, with a maximum average flush volume of 4 litres
Remember, only specific internal cold water taps installed over sinks or troughs need to meet these standards.
Non-water Efficient Properties
If a property isn't water efficient but is individually metered with the tenant responsible for water charges, landlords must cover a 'reasonable amount' of water consumption, as per regulations. Tenants may then be required to pay excess water charges.
Billing and Payment Protocols
The V & Co. Realty Property Management team will promptly pass on water bills to tenants. While the Act doesn’t specify exact timeframes for invoicing, it's deemed unreasonable to withhold water charges for an extended period. As per the General Tenancy Agreement tenants are provided one month to pay water bills after receiving them.
Understanding the intricacies of water charging in tenancy agreements ensures fair and transparent dealings between landlords and tenants. Compliance with regulations and timely billing contribute to a harmonious rental relationship, something we prioritise at V & Co. Realty.
For more detailed information or specific queries, it’s advisable to consult local regulations or seek professional advice. Or as always, reach out to our dedicated V & Co. Realty Property Management team on 0436 003 955.