Lessor/agents and managers are allowed to pass on the full cost of water consumption, provided:

• the rental premises are individually metered (or water is delivered by vehicle), and
• the rental premises are water efficient, and
• the tenancy agreement states the tenant must pay for water consumption

Items a tenant can be charged

A breakdown of water charges is shown below.

The water meter reading should be recorded on the Entry condition report at the start of a tenancy.

Fast facts

• Rental premises are considered water efficient if certain water fixtures meet standards listed in the Water efficient premises page.
• At the start of the tenancy agreement, the lessor/agent and tenant should negotiate arrangements for water charging and the frequency of charges.
• Water billing periods are unlikely to align with tenancy agreements. It's important that the water meter reading is noted on the Entry condition report (Form 1a) when starting a tenancy, and on the Exit condition report (Form 14a) at the end of the tenancy.
• The presence of water efficient fittings should be noted on the Entry condition report .
• Taking a photo of the water meter at the start and end of a tenancy can help support what you have noted on the condition report forms.
• Lessors will receive the water bill and should provide their tenants with a copy of water bills or evidence of water consumption to verify the amount to be charged. Tenants will not be billed directly by water supply authorities.
• Tenants must be given 1 month to pay any water bill after receiving the notice from the lessor/agent.