Moving into a new rental property can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with responsibilities. One of the critical tasks you’ll need to tackle is setting up utilities when renting in Australia, which includes services like electricity, gas, internet, and Pay TV.
Are you wondering how to set it all up and how to save on utility bills? Fear not! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of connecting utilities, making the most of solar panels, dealing with separate metering, and choosing the best plans for your needs. Let’s dive in!
Understanding Your Rental Agreement and Responsibilities
Before you can enjoy the comforts of your new home, it’s essential to understand your rental agreement and the responsibilities that come with it. A proper tenancy agreement will outline the landlord’s and tenant’s duties concerning utility connections and payments.
In most cases, the landlord is responsible for connecting utilities to the property, while the tenant is in charge of paying the bills. However, the amount of your utility bill may vary depending on your usage, especially when moving house and adjusting to a new rental property.
To ensure accurate billing, it’s crucial to obtain a meter reading when relocating into a new rental property where electricity is already connected. Discussing utilities with your real estate agent or landlord before moving in can help clarify the terms and conditions of utility payments, making your transition as seamless as possible.
Landlord’s Responsibilities
As a landlord, it’s important to be aware of the hidden costs of renting, and one of those costs is the initial installation and connection of utilities. You are responsible for the initial installation and connection of utilities such as electricity, gas, and oil supply services, including the associated costs and charges for the initial electricity connections.
If your rental property has a single electric and gas meter for the entire site, you are also responsible for covering the connection and supply charges. Moreover, as the property owner, you are responsible for covering the cost of smart meter installation, which may involve coordinating with the current energy provider.
Ensuring that all meters are functional and properly installed will prevent any future issues and provide a smooth experience for your tenants.
Tenant’s Responsibilities
As a tenant, you are responsible for reconnecting energy connections, such as electricity and gas, in your own name when moving into a rental property. To ensure a smooth transition, it’s crucial to contact utility companies before moving in, especially if the rental property has solar panels, and you need to discuss the solar feed-in tariff.
If your rental property uses bottled gas, you will need to arrange for the procurement and supply of gas bottles and connect electricity if needed. By staying on top of your utility responsibilities and coordinating with your landlord, you can avoid any unexpected surprises and enjoy a comfortable living experience in your new home.
Connecting Electricity and Gas in a Rental Property
When it comes to connecting electricity and gas in a rental property, the process can be quite straightforward. First, contact your energy provider to arrange the electricity connection and set up an account before moving in.
Verify with your retailer that the new property is already electricity connected to the grid, and make sure to record the electricity and gas meters reading for both the old and new residence on moving day to ensure accurate billing for energy usage.
In case you need to establish a gas connection at your new rental property, it’s essential to first ascertain whether natural gas is available. If the house is on a mains gas network but doesn’t have the necessary piping to set up a connection, it may be possible to arrange one. However, carefully evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of setting up a gas connection before committing to a potentially costly expense.
Contacting Your Energy Provider
One of the first steps in setting up utilities in your new rental property is contacting your energy provider. Major energy providers in Australia include AGL, Origin Energy, ActewAGL, and Energy Australia. Reach out to your preferred provider to arrange the connection and set up an account for electricity and gas.
The steps necessary for establishing an account may vary depending on the provider. Generally, you will need to supply your contact information, the address of the property, and payment details. By contacting your energy provider early on, you can ensure a smooth connection process and avoid any unnecessary stress during your move.
To get an idea of costs, the average electricity bill in Sydney for one person is around $92 a month.
Providing Necessary Information
When setting up utilities in your new rental property, it’s essential to provide accurate personal information, the new address, and the move-in date to your energy provider. Before contacting the new retailer, conduct research to determine which tariff and plan best suits your needs.
To guarantee a seamless connection process, confirm the connection process with your energy provider. By providing all the necessary information and coordinating with your provider, you can ensure that your utilities are connected promptly and accurately, allowing you to focus on settling into your new home.
Solar Panels and Feed-In Tariffs in Rental Properties
Solar panels and feed-in tariffs can play a significant role in rental properties, offering benefits to both tenants and landlords. Solar panels are renewable energy technology that generates electricity, while feed-in tariffs are financial incentives offered to the owner of the solar panels for any electricity they generate. Installing solar panels in a rental property can lead to reduced electricity bills for tenants and tax credits and rebates for landlords.
If your rental property has solar panels, it’s essential to discuss the solar feed-in tariffs with the owner before occupying the premises. Feed-in tariffs are payments made to the owner of the solar panels for the electricity they generate, with the amount varying depending on the type of tariff and the amount of electricity generated.
Benefits of Solar Panels
Solar panels offer numerous benefits for rental properties, making them more attractive to potential renters and contributing to a greener environment. Tenants can enjoy reduced electricity bills, while landlords may experience lower vacancy rates and tax deductions for depreciation of solar panels. The offset in cost from the grid will result in lower bills, allowing tenants to save on utility expenses.
In addition to helping renters save on electricity bills, solar panels can also enhance the property value and tenant retention rate. By investing in solar panels, landlords can create a more sustainable and appealing rental property, attracting eco-conscious tenants and contributing to a cleaner, greener future.
Managing Feed-In Tariffs
To make the most of solar panels in your rental property, it’s essential to understand and manage feed-in tariffs effectively. Tenants should advise their energy provider of the solar panels and take into account feed-in tariff rates when selecting an energy plan.
In Australia, feed-in tariffs are payments made to non-commercial producers of electricity generated by solar photovoltaic (PV) or wind power systems for excess electricity they feed into the grid. The tariff amount varies depending on the state and electricity retailer.
By staying informed about feed-in tariffs and negotiating with energy providers, you can maximize the benefits of solar panels and enjoy a more cost-effective living experience.
Dealing with Separate Metering and Embedded Networks
Understanding the difference between separate meters and embedded networks in rental properties is crucial for both landlords and tenants. A separate metering in a rental property indicates that each unit has its own electricity, gas, or oil meter. If there are no separate meters, the rental provider is liable for the costs of that service or supply.
An embedded network, on the other hand, refers to a network of electricity, gas, or oil meters connected to a single meter, with the rental provider responsible for the associated costs. By understanding the responsibilities of both the landlord and the tenant when dealing with separate meters and embedded networks, you can ensure that all parties are aware of their duties and avoid any potential disputes or misunderstandings.
Separately Metered Utilities
In rental properties with separately metered utilities, typically found in houses and townhouses, landlords are responsible for connection charges, while tenants are responsible for paying for their usage. The landlord must ensure that the meters are installed appropriately and that the tenant is aware of their responsibilities.
Connecting electricity to a rental property requires typically 1 to 2 business days. A new gas connection, on the other hand, takes 3 to 5 days. To guarantee a smooth connection process, tenants should plan ahead and notify their new utility provider of their move-in date.
Embedded Networks
Embedded networks involve landlords reselling electricity to tenants at regulated prices. In this case, landlords must register as an ‘exempt seller’ with the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) and comply with certain regulations to protect tenants, including not charging tenants more than the government’s regulated price for their electricity usage.
Tenants still have the option to choose a plan from an energy retailer instead of joining an embedded network. They should consult with their landlord and retailer to determine who will pay the supply charges.
If tenants suspect their landlord is not adhering to the regulated price for electricity usage in an embedded network, they should contact their state’s ombudsman to file a complaint.
Connecting Additional Utilities: Internet and Pay TV
In addition to setting up electricity and gas, you may also want to connect additional utilities like internet and Pay TV in your rental property. To verify if your property is NBN ready, contact your internet provider. Research and compare plans to determine which internet provider offers the best services for your needs and budget.
Once you’ve chosen a service provider, contact them to set up services and arrange installation if necessary. If the broadband and Pay TV included in your rent don’t meet your needs, you can arrange a separate plan to access higher speeds.
Choosing a Service Provider
Selecting the right service provider for your internet and Pay TV needs is crucial for a seamless and enjoyable experience in your rental property. The most efficient method for choosing an internet service provider is to compare plans and prices from top providers in the country. Utilizing comparison tools, such as our ‘value rank’ feature, can help you identify the most suitable plan tailored to your needs.
By taking the time to research and compare service providers, you can ensure that you’re getting the best possible deal for your internet and Pay TV services, allowing you to enjoy uninterrupted entertainment in your new home.
Setting Up Services
To set up internet and Pay TV services in your rental property, contact your chosen provider via phone, email, or through their website. Before any alterations are made, you may be required to obtain permission from the property owner or real estate agency.
By coordinating with your chosen service provider and obtaining the necessary permissions, you can ensure a smooth installation process and enjoy your new rental property to its fullest potential.
Tips for Saving on Utility Bills in a Rental Property
Saving on utility bills in a rental property is not only possible, but also easier than you might think. There are several ways to minimize your utility expenses, such as comparing various plans to determine if there’s a more cost-effective or advantageous option available. It’s recommended to evaluate energy plans at least every 6 months to guarantee you’re getting the best deal.
In addition to comparing plans, you can also maximize energy efficiency by utilizing energy-efficient appliances, turning off lights when not in use, and taking advantage of natural light whenever possible. By implementing these energy-saving practices, you can significantly reduce your utility bills and enjoy a more cost-effective living experience in your rental property.
Energy Efficiency Measures
To reduce electricity bills in a rental property, landlords can incorporate energy-efficient systems, enhance insulation, and examine for drafts. They can also benefit from rebates for replacing outdated hot water systems with energy-efficient models. Installing LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, and solar panels can further lower electricity bills.
Tenants can also contribute to energy efficiency by using energy-saving appliances and making conscious choices, such as turning off lights when not in use. By working together, landlords and tenants can create a more sustainable and cost-effective living environment.
Comparing Energy Plans
Regularly comparing energy plans is essential for ensuring you’re getting the best deal for your usage and location. Websites such as Energy Made Easy, Canstar Blue, or Finder can help you compare energy plans in your rental property, allowing you to identify the most suitable option according to your needs.
By evaluating energy plans every 6 months, you can guarantee that you’re receiving an advantageous energy deal, leading to significant savings on your utility bills.
Summary
In conclusion, setting up utilities in a rental property in Australia might seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and guidance, it can be a smooth and hassle-free process. From understanding rental agreements and responsibilities to connecting electricity, gas, internet, and Pay TV, this guide has covered all the essential steps to help you navigate the world of utilities in Australia.
By implementing energy-saving practices, comparing energy plans, and making informed decisions about your utility connections, you can enjoy a comfortable and cost-effective living experience in your new rental property. Now that you’re armed with this knowledge, it’s time to take action and make your move as seamless as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays water bills when renting?
Who pays water bills when renting is another common question among tenants when it comes to renting. When renting an apartment in Australia, tenants are generally responsible for paying for their utilities such as water, electricity, gas and oil, internet and phone, television, and any high usage charges. This includes the water bill. Additionally, tenants may have to pay back charges if the utilities do not meet efficiency standards and settle a utility charge when moving out.
What bills do you have to pay when renting an apartment Australia?
What bills you pay when renting is a common question among tenants. When renting an apartment in Australia, tenants are expected to pay for their utilities such as water, electricity, gas and oil, internet and phone, television, and any high usage charges.
They may also have to pay back charges for utilities not meeting efficiency standards and pay a utility charge when moving out.
How do I set up utilities when renting in Australia?
When renting in Australia, setting up utilities requires contacting the relevant suppliers to switch on or reconnect services at your new address. Be sure to read any contracts carefully and ask questions if there are any additional fees or charges.
Before signing, check with your previous utility supplier to ensure your contract has been terminated.
Are utilities included in rent Australia?
In Australia, whether the rent includes utilities or not depends on the rental agreement. Generally, if the property is separately metered, tenants are responsible for covering their own utilities costs. If not, the landlord will be responsible for these costs. Ultimately, it will depend on the specific terms of your rental agreement.
In Australia, the responsibility for paying utilities varies from property to property. Generally speaking, if the property is’separately metered’, utilities such as electricity, gas and water will not be included in the rent and the tenant must cover these costs. If the property is not separately metered, then the landlord may pay utilities or they may be included in the rent.
Overall, whether utilities are included in rent in Australia will depend on the specific terms of the rental agreement. If the property is separately metered, the tenant is usually responsible for paying these costs. However, if the property does not have its own meters, the landlord may cover these costs or they may be included in the rent.
Is phone bill a utility bill Australia?
Yes, phone bills are considered utility bills in Australia, along with other essential services such as electricity and water. So if you need assistance paying for your phone bill, there are some options available to you.
For example, you may be eligible for a government-funded program that helps with the cost of essential services. You can also contact your phone provider to see if they offer any discounts or payment plans.
How often should I evaluate energy plans?
Evaluating your energy plans regularly is important to ensure you are taking advantage of competitive rates and staying up-to-date with the latest offers.
It is recommended to evaluate your plan at least every 6 months.
