Utilities and Billing Guide for Renters in South Australia

Renting a property in South Australia involves understanding your obligations regarding utilities and billing. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what renters need to know about paying for electricity, water, and internet services.

Understanding Utility Responsibilities

In South Australia, the Residential Tenancies Act 1995 specifies that utility responsibilities should be outlined in the rental agreement. Tenants are typically responsible for utilities that they control and consume, such as electricity and gas, unless stated otherwise.

Electricity and Gas

Electricity and gas bills generally fall on the tenant’s shoulders. Ensure your lease agreement specifies who is responsible for connecting and paying for these services. Consider shopping around for the best rates or bundling services for potential savings.

Water Billing

In South Australia, landlords must cover water supply charges, but tenants are liable for water usage and sewerage charges. It's essential to check if there are individual meters for your dwelling; if not, you may be sharing the water bill with other tenants.

Internet Services

Internet connections in rental properties are usually the tenant's responsibility. Before signing your lease, check the property's existing infrastructure to ensure it supports the desired internet service.

Important Forms for Tenants

Understanding the required forms can make dealing with utilities more straightforward:

• Change of Tenancy Form: Use this form to transfer the utility accounts to your name when moving into a new rental.
• Disconnection Form: Necessary when terminating services at the end of your tenancy.

Residential Tenancies Tribunal

If you encounter disputes related to utility charges, the South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT) can help resolve these issues.

Ensure all utility accounts are accurately transferred to avoid disputes and ensure service continuity.

1. Prepare for Utility Billing

   Familiarize yourself with average utility costs in your area to anticipate your monthly expenses accurately.

2. Confirm Lease Agreement Terms

   Ensure that your rental agreement explicitly mentions utility responsibilities to prevent future conflicts.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you're dealing with utility billing issues, consider reaching out to these resources:

• Consumer and Business Services South Australia
• Legal Services Commission of South Australia
• South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT)

---

1. What are my rights regarding utilities in South Australia?

   Your rights are outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act 1995, which includes responsibilities for utility payments.

2. Who pays for water usage in a rental property?

   Typically, the tenant pays for water usage and sewage, while landlords cover supply charges.

3. How can I resolve a utility billing dispute?

   If a dispute arises, try to resolve it with your landlord or contact the South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT) for assistance.

1. How to set up utilities when moving in?

   Contact the service providers to transfer the utilities to your name and ensure service continuity from your move-in date.

2. How to dispute an incorrect utility charge?

   First, contact your utility provider to discuss the discrepancy. If unresolved, consider lodging a complaint with the appropriate consumer authority.

• Always review utility responsibilities in your rental agreement.
• Understand who is responsible for paying which utility charges to avoid surprises.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you require additional assistance, consider contacting these resources for further guidance:

• Consumer and Business Services South Australia
• Legal Services Commission of South Australia
• South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT)

---

1. Understanding utility responsibilities can prevent conflicts with your landlord.
2. Always clarify the utility payment terms in your rental agreement to avoid unexpected charges.
3. Utilize available resources if you face challenges regarding utility billing or disputes.

Categories

General Tenant Rights & Protections Tenancy Agreements & Renewals Rent, Bond & Holding Deposits Moving In & Condition Reports Ending a Tenancy & Moving Out Repairs, Maintenance & Urgent Issues Minimum Standards & Habitability Evictions & Breach Notices Co-Tenancies, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Equal Housing Access Disability Access & Reasonable Adjustments Utilities, Water & Internet Billing Public, Community & Social Housing Rent Increases & Rent Controls Privacy & Landlord Entry Rules Locks, Keys & Security Obligations Resolving Disputes & Tribunal Processes Harassment, Threats & Landlord Misconduct Boarding Houses, Rooming Houses & Lodgers Caravan Parks & Residential Parks Bond Refunds & Claims Notice Periods & Tenancy Termination Entry Condition Breaches & Compensation Tenant Advocacy & Legal Aid