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The landlord must always pay for the sewerage charge on the SA Water bill.
Information about who pays for water use and supply can be included in the lease agreement. If there’s nothing written in the agreement and there’s a separate water meter:
- the tenant needs to pay for water use and supply if the agreement started on or after 1 March 2014
- the tenant needs to pay for water used over 136 kilolitres each year if the agreement started before 1 March 2014.
Invoices
Landlords should attach a copy of the bill to the tenant’s invoice when charging for water use and supply. The tenant doesn’t have to pay for water charges if the:
- landlord doesn’t ask for payment within 3 months of the bill being issued
- tenant asks for a copy of the account and the landlord doesn’t provide it within 30 days.
No separate water meter
If more than one property is on one meter, a specific term must be written in the agreement explaining how water charges will be shared.
A percentage of the water usage based on the number of properties and number of tenants is a common way to share the charges.
Landlords do not have to pass on water usage charges. Water costs can be considered before the start of the tenancy and included in the rent amount.
No mains water
Properties without mains water should include a water tank that’s suitable for the property. An adequate supply of drinking water must be provided by the landlord and pumps need to be maintained in a reasonable condition.
Gutters and downpipes should be clear from leaves and other debris when rainwater is collected from the roof. Clear instructions must be given to the tenant on how to use equipment, such as pumps, at the start of the tenancy.
Working out water charges
Water billing periods don’t always align with tenancy agreements. The meter reading should be noted on the inspection sheet at the start and end of each tenancy. These readings are used to calculate how much water the tenant used while on the property.
Usage calculator
Use this calculator to quickly estimate water use. Dates are calculated using full calendar days - SA Water usage prices are applied.
Notifying landlords about repairs
The tenant should advise their landlord immediately about problems such as leaking taps. If they don’t, they might need to pay for increased water costs caused by the leak.
The South Australian Civil and Administrative Authority determines responsibility for water costs if there is a dispute.
Contact CBS Tenancies
Email: ocbatenancyadvice@sa.gov.au
Phone: 131 882
Post:
GPO Box 965
Adelaide SA 5001
Related information
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Water and sewerage rate concession
Other websites
Save water in your home - SA Water
