In NSW, current legislation states a landlord can only ask a tenant to pay water usage charges if the minimum criteria have been met. A rental premises is considered water efficient if certain water fixtures meet the standards.
What is the criteria?
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 23rd March 2025, all toilets must be 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.
How does SATS test* the property for Water Efficiency?
No leaking taps or toilets
We survey the property for any leaking taps or toilets
Shower heads
The maximum flow rate is measured by using a industry standard 9 litre receptacle and a stop watch.
- Receptacle is placed under shower head
- Stopwatch is set to one minute
- The tap is turned on to capacity (cold water) and receptacle is filled for one minute
- If receptacle does not overflow at the end of one minute, the shower head meets the required standard
Applicable Taps
The maximum flow rate is measured by using a industry standard water flow measuring cup.
- The measuring cup’s gauge is set to 9 litres per minute
- The tap is turned on to capacity (cold water)
- The cup is then placed under the flowing tap and the water measured. If the water level in the cup remains at 9 litres or less, the tap meets the required standard
*These tests are not performed by qualified plumbers and SATS is not responsible for any costs incurred due to failed tests. Changes in water pressure can cause the flow rate to fluctuate and can be caused by a variety of factors, including municipal water supply issues and/or a malfunctioning pressure regulator. As a result of variables beyond the control of SATS, the results of the test may change in the future.
More information
Visit the NSW Fair Trading – Water, electricity and gas in rental properties page to read more on the Water Efficiency Standards.
Electrical Licenses:
NSW 264079C | ACT 2014969
SA PGE 324794 | QLD 90708
Office Hours
| Monday | 8am – 5pm |
| Tuesday | 8am – 5pm |
| Wednesday | 8am – 5pm |
| Thursday | 8am – 5pm |
| Friday | 8am – 5pm |
| Sat / Sun | Closed |
