Water is different to other utilities as it is always connected, therefore the account for the water supply will be in the landlord’s name.
Landlords must pay all water supply service charges and all sewerage supply service charges.
In NSW, a landlord can only ask a tenant to pay water usage charges if:
- the property is separately metered (or water is delivered by vehicle), and
- the charges are not more than the amount the landlord is billed for by the water supplier, and
- the property meets the ‘water efficiency’ standards.
Water Efficient Standards Include;
– No leaking taps or toilets
– Shower heads, internal cold water taps & single mixer taps for kitchen sinks or bathroom basins must have a maximum flow rate of 9 litres per minute.
From 23 March 2025 all toilets in rental properties must be dual flush with a minimum 3 star rating.
The landlord or agent can request payment from the tenant for water usage charges within 3 months of a bill being issued. They will need to provide the tenant with a copy of the bill. The tenant must be given at least 21 days to pay the water usage amount owing. Water usage charges should be paid separately to rent.
If you would like any more information please contact our Property Management Team
