The Water Debate
Who is responsible for the payment of water supply?
There are some basic points to consider:
· Are the premises individually metered for water or is water delivered by a vehicle?
- If not the Lessor must pay for all water charges
· Does the agreement state the tenant must pay for water?
- If not the Lessor must pay for all water charges
· Are all water-efficient devices in place for the entire period the full water consumption is to be charged?
- If not the Lessor must pay for ‘reasonable’ amount of water for the period premises are not water efficient and any costs if water-efficient devices are to be installed
· If all water-efficient devices are in place for the entire period the tenant may be asked to pay for all water consumption charges for the period. The Lessor must pay all fixed charges for water supply.
If you feel as a landlord that you can pass on charges or want to, then it must be stated in the tenancy agreement that charges must be paid by the tenant.
There are certain other issues to be aware of before making that decision:
· What is the average water consumption in the area
· Water billing will probably not align with the tenancy agreement so readings should be taken at the beginning and end of the agreement
· Landlords will be billed for the water usage and will need to pay the bill then provide the tenant with a copy of the bill to verify water consumption
· Tenants have one month to pay the agreed amount for water consumption after the Lessor provides evidence of the costs to the tenant. The Lessor/ agent cannot require the tenant to pay more than the billable amount, or charge tenants late fees.
· Any disputes should be taken to the RTA’s Dispute Resolution Service
Filed Under: Property Investment
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