The benefits of taking steps to improve a property’s water efficiency are obvious when you consider a slow drip from a leaking tap can waste 9,000 litres of water a year. Whether you’re a tenant, landlord or owner-occupier there are numerous steps you can take to improve your water efficiency to reduce wastage and keep your bills down.

Here are some basic ways to reduce your water wastage:

• Wash your cars, bikes or boats on the lawn to water the grass at the same time.
• Ensure any appliances you purchase have a high water-efficiency rating.
• Sweep paths and driveways instead of hosing them down.
• Where possible, always use your dishwasher and clothes washer for full loads.
• Always turn the tap off while brushing your teeth.
• Install water-efficient showerheads and tap aerators.

By watering your garden wisely, you can reduce water use. This can be achieved by:

• Mulching, which assists gardens to retain water.
• Regular weeding, to stop weeds from draining moisture.
• Watering early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid evaporation.
• Encourage plants to put down deep roots by giving them occasional deep soaking rather than frequently light watering.
• Water the roots of your plants rather than the leaves.
• Water gradually so the water has time to soak in. Flooding one spot can cause run-off and make soil water resistant.

For landlords, it’s important to keep up to date with your legal responsibilities regarding water charges.

In some states of Australia, landlords must fit water-efficient features such as certified shower heads and taps before they can pass on water charges to tenants. A water efficiency certificate can be completed by a qualified plumber.

In all states of Australia, tenants in an individually metred dwelling are required to pay for water consumption charges unless negotiated otherwise. Tenants living in premises with shared metres, for example in apartments, normally do not pay for their water, however there are exceptions.

In all cases, it is illegal for landlords to add any markup to water charges. Improvements to water appliances can be tax deductible.

Each state of Australia applies different conditions to how landlords pass on water charges, so either take the time to update your local knowledge or consider leaving the charging of water and other aspects of your investment property in the capable hands of a property manager.

A property manager will be fully acquainted with the rules and regulations for your state, know the best plumbers in the area, and as a result, save you time and effort.

You can find a local Harcourts Rata & Co property manager here.

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