Do Tenants Pay For Water Usage in Queensland?

JPR Plumbing Services • 7 September 2024

Understanding Your Responsibilities for Water Charges in Queensland Rentals

If you're renting a property in Queensland, you might be wondering about who covers the cost of water usage. Understanding your responsibilities can help you manage your budget and avoid unexpected expenses. Here’s a clear breakdown of how water charges work for tenants in Queensland.

For water charges to be passed onto the tenant, the property must be fitted with water efficient fixtures and be individually metered. Your tenancy agreement must also state that the tenant must pay for water usage - if you need a water compliance certificate or a water efficiency report done for your Brisbane rental property contact JPR Plumbing Services.

Water Charges and Tenants

In Queensland, tenants can indeed be charged for water usage, but there are specific conditions that need to be met. Here's what you need to know:

Property Water Compliance

For tenants to be charged for water usage, the rental property must be water compliant. This means the property needs to meet certain criteria set by the Queensland Government. These criteria typically include having water-efficient fixtures and fittings, such as showerheads, taps, and toilets, that comply with the minimum standards.

Water Usage Charges

If the property is water compliant, landlords are allowed to pass on the cost of water usage to tenants. This is usually done by billing the tenant directly for the amount of water they use, based on the water meter readings. It’s important to check your lease agreement to see if it specifies that you will be responsible for these charges.

Rental Agreement Terms

Always review your rental agreement carefully. It should clearly state whether you are responsible for water usage charges and if the property is water compliant. If the lease does not mention water charges, or if the property is not water compliant, you should not be billed for water usage.

What If the Property Is Not Water Compliant?

If the rental property does not meet the water compliance standards, the landlord cannot charge you for water usage. In such cases, the landlord is responsible for covering these costs. You will need a licensed plumber to check your fixtures for water efficiency and replace where necessary.

Conclusion

In summary, tenants in Queensland can be required to pay for water usage, but only if the property is water compliant. Ensure you understand your lease terms and verify the compliance status of your rental property to avoid any surprises on your utility bills. If in doubt, discuss any concerns with your landlord or property manager to clarify your responsibilities. For more information on water charging, visit the RTA QLD's website