How Much Can The Tenant Be Charged?
Tenants can be charged for water consumption, not supplier service charges.
This Urban Utilities example bill demonstrates how usage and service charges are shown.
If the property is water-efficient:
The full amount for water usage can be passed on
If the property is not water-efficient:
The charge for usage above an agreed reasonable quantity can be passed on
What Are The Requirements To Pass On Water Consumption Charges?
To require tenants to pay for water consumption, the following conditions must be met:
- The premises must be individually metered
- The tenancy agreement states the tenants must pay for the water consumption
- The tenant must be provided a copy of the water bill from the supplier within 4 weeks of receiving it, showing the water consumption charges payable (only if the tenant occupies the premises for the full billing period).
Additionally, if the tenant occupies the premises for only part of the supplier billing period:
- The premises must be water-efficient
- A meter reading for the premises must be included in the entry or exit condition report, and this reading should be used to estimate the water usage
- The rate charged is based on the most recent bill received
What Is Water-Efficient?
The definition of water efficiency is prescribed by Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Regulation 2009 Section 22
- Showerheads, internal cold water taps and single mixer taps (excluding bathtub taps and taps for appliances) – Maximum flow rate of nine litres per minute
- Toilets – A dual flush function not exceeding six point five (6.5) litres on full flush and three point five (3.5) litres on half flush and a maximum average flush volume of four litres (based on the average of one full flush and four half flushes).
Do I Need To Supply A Certificate Stating The Property Is Water Efficient?
No, it is not a legal requirement. However, it is considered best practice to have this documentation to help avoid disputes. If a tenant challenges their responsibility to pay for water usage, claiming the property doesn’t meet water efficiency standards, it falls on the lessor to provide proof of compliance.
A water efficiency certificate from a plumber is considered the most reliable evidence, however, receipts for the installation of water-efficient fixtures may be acceptable.
Advising Urban Utilities To Deliver Bills To JJRE
To ensure tenants are provided with copies of water bills within the required time frame we recommend the Urban Utilities bill be sent directly to our office. We can facilitate payment using funds held in trust on your behalf and invoice tenants accordingly as required.
The easiest way to update the billing email address is via the Urban Utiliities MyAccount feature. From there, select the property and update the bill delivery method to email billupload@jeffjones.com.au
Alternatively, an online form can be completed here