Water efficiency test

Hi all,

Once you get a water efficiency test done in able to recharge (IP house), can this be used for future new tenants? Ie let’s say after 6 months tenant moves out and new one comes in. Is there a rule to state that a water efficiency test is to be done for every new tenant renewal?

thanks in advance.

 

One off test

 

That’s what I thought but the agent stated in an email due to recent law changes it must be done at every new rental tenant???

 

Correct for NSW. Don’t know about other states.

 

Haven't had to do it in Adelaide, must be state specific.

 

That is correct but you can do it yourself. You do not need to pay a plumber or anyone to do it.

Just measure the taps into a buckle and measure the average over 5 fills. Same for the shower etc....write the results down and thats it.

I've done my own tests over many years. Dont pay someone $100 - $150 for it. Instead do it yourself and treat yourself to 1/2 kilo A5 Wagyu beef lunch at Meat and Wine Co.

 

NSW
Water efficiency measures should appear on the condition report .(Fair Trading)

Tenants can ask the landlord or agent to provide some evidence. LL can calculate the flow rate and advise the PM to include the facts in the condition report (see highlights below) There is no requirement to provide a certificate and such a rule has no expiry date if there is one. The requirement is compliance with standards and beinga ble to demnstrate that. Its not just flow rate. Note the future requirement for toilets. I see disputes and complaints about replacing toilets coming when agents push that issue. Proof of WELS rating ?

A property is only considered water efficient if it meets these standards.

Required standard

• No leaking taps or toilets - No leaking taps or toilets anywhere on the property at the start of the tenancy and whenever the other water efficiency measures are installed, repaired or upgraded
• Shower heads - Maximum flow rate of 9 litres per minute
• Internal cold water taps and single mixer taps for kitchen sinks or bathroom hand basins - Maximum flow rate of 9 litres per minute
• Dual flush toilets

From 23 March 2025: all toilets on the property are dual flush and have a minimum 3-star WELS rating. ​

The 9 litres per minute flow rate does not apply to other taps in the property, including bathtub taps, laundry taps, outside taps for the garden, or taps for washing machines and dishwashers.​

 

So is this true in NSW?
Prior to EVERY new tenancy you need a water efficiency certificate?
no wonder theres a shortage of plumbers...

 

Did you read @Paul@PAS response?

 

I noticed the other day a house which has been refurbished extensively (back to a shell & extended) it's non-compliant.

The 4th bathroom (AKA the tradies bathroom, a 1970's wash room at the back of the garage), still has the original pan, cistern, showerhead and original tapware).

That's enough for a tenant to avoid paying for usage, even if no one ever goes out there.

A trap for young players.