28 August 2024
Renters struggling with skyrocketing energy bills and cold, drafty homes would receive relief under a new Greens bill to be introduced in State Parliament today to impose minimum energy efficiency standards on landlords.
The Residential Tenancies (Minimum Standards) Tenancy Bill would set following standards on rental properties:
- Appliances and dishwashers must be rated under the WELS scheme to demonstrate their water use (https://www.waterrating.gov.au/)
- Homes must be fitted with an efficient heater and cooler (that is fixed and in good working order)
- Roof insulation must comply with the minimum standards under the Federal building code
- Chimneys, windows, doors, exhaust fans, ceiling vents must be maintained to prevent draughts
- External windows must have fly screens
- Any new tenancy agreement would be required to comply with the standards
- Landlords would be required to disclose the energy efficiency of their home to potential tenants – a penalty applies of up to $20,000 for landlords that don’t disclose or mislead
- SACAT will be given new powers to impose penalties on landlords who don’t comply with the standards.
“Many renters have been struggling with frigid, poorly ventilated homes and skyrocketing energy bills over this winter. Poor home insulation and ineffective heating isn’t just uncomfortable, it’s also expensive and puts people’s health at risk. Landlords should be required to meet minimum standards for rental properties and disclose the energy efficiency rating of homes to prospective tenants prior to them signing a lease,” said Greens SA Housing Spokesperson Robert Simms MLC.
“If you’re renting in SA, you should have the assurance that your home will be cool in summer and warm in winter. Basic measures, like installing fly screens and sealing draughts, should be standard practice for landlords. Unfortunately, some landlords are neglecting these essentials while raising rents and raking in profits.”
In 2022 a report from Better Renting showed that 79% of the time renters’ homes are below the WHO recommended minimum health standard of 18˚C in South Australia.
Minimum energy standards for rentals are supported by Uniting Communities, the South Australian Council of Social Services and Better Renting.