Understanding Utility Billing for Tasmanian Renters

Navigating utilities and billing as a tenant in Tasmania can be overwhelming. Understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding water, electricity, and internet services can help avoid disputes with landlords and providers. This guide provides essential insights into Tasmanian rental laws for utilities, ensuring you are well-informed.

Who is Responsible for Utility Payments?

In Tasmania, the Residential Tenancy Act 1997 outlines the responsibilities for utility payments. Generally, tenants pay for their consumption of utilities such as electricity, gas, and water. However, the landlord must install necessary meters. Any charges for connection and supply remain the landlord's responsibility.

Electricity and Gas

Tenants are responsible for the usage of electricity and gas. Ensure the presence of individual meters to avoid disputes over shared costs.

Water Consumption

If the lease agreement states, tenants can be charged for water, calculated via a separate water meter. Any sewerage or infrastructure charges should be clarified in the tenancy agreement to avoid misunderstandings.

Internet and Phone Services

Setting up internet and phone services is generally a tenant's responsibility unless specified otherwise in the tenancy agreement. Consider discussing installation implications with your landlord if modifications to the property are anticipated.

Tip: Always keep a written record of agreements and bills relating to utilities, to help resolve any disputes efficiently.

Disputes and Resolution

If you encounter excessive charges or difficulty with utilities, contact the property owner first to resolve the issue. If unresolved, approach the Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS), which serves as the Tasmanian authority in residential tenancy disputes.

Further disputes can be directed to the Magistrates Court of Tasmania's Residential Tenancy Division.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS): Offers guidance on rental issues and disputes in Tasmania.
• Tasmanian Council of Social Service (TasCOSS): Provides community support and resources for Tasmanians on low incomes.
• Legal Aid Tasmania: Provides free legal assistance and advice for renters in Tasmania.

---

1. What happens if there's a dispute over water charges? If you face a dispute over water charges, first review your rental agreement to understand the terms. Then, discuss it with your landlord for clarification. If unresolved, you can escalate the issue to Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS).
2. Is the landlord obligated to provide internet access? Internet access is not generally considered an essential service under Tasmanian rental laws, hence, landlords are not obligated to provide it. Tenants usually arrange it themselves unless specified in the lease.
3. Can I change utility service providers? In Tasmania, tenants can choose their utility service providers. However, check your tenancy agreement for any clauses about preferred providers or requirements for approval from your landlord.

1. How to resolve a billing dispute with your landlord
   1. Step 1: Review your agreement - Ensure you understand what utilities and charges you are responsible for.
   2. Step 2: Gather evidence - Collect bills and any correspondence relating to the dispute.
   3. Step 3: Communicate - Write a formal letter to your landlord explaining the issue and include evidence.
   4. Step 4: Contact services - If the landlord is unresponsive, reach out to CBOS for assistance.

Key takeaways for Tasmanian renters dealing with utilities include understanding the obligations in your rental agreement, keeping clear records, and knowing your rights to dispute unreasonable charges. Utilizing resources such as CBOS can also assist in complex situations.

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