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New sustainability laws for Queensland homes

7 April 2010
Drops of water on a leaf look like sparkling diamonds

Water conservation is just one of the ways to improve sustainability in the home

With growing concerns about climate change and the recognition that we can do something to lessen our footprint on the environment, making more homes more sustainable makes sense. Not only can sustainability features in a home reduce energy costs and water usage, they can be more pleasant to live in and reduce greenhouse gasses at the same time. Access and safety are also factors on the declaration.

From 1 January 2010, vendors of dwellings are now required to supply a sustainability declaration. The declaration applies when selling a house, townhouse or unit.

The declaration allows vendors with good sustainability features to docoment them. And it is likely that these homes will be more appealing to buyers who realise the cost benefits over less sustainable houses. Simple changes such as installing energy efficient lights, a water saving shower head and a dual flushing toilet can make a world of difference. As the sustainability declaration fact sheet points out: ‘the declaration will help promote the sustainability of a home and become a key marketing tool for real estate agents and private sellers’.

For buyers of real estate, sustainability declarations will be displayed at open for inspections. Alternatively you can request an agent to provide a copy for you.

More good news for vendors is that the sustainability declaration is self assessing – it is the seller who completes the declaration. You do not need a paid professional to complete the form on your behalf. Forms can be downloaded from the Department of Infrastructure and Planning’s website www.dip.qld.gov.au.

Queensland and the ACT are the only two states or territories in Australia with such a system. However, the Federal Government is moving towards a green-star sustainability rating for all residents in Australia which will start rolling out from May 2011.

For more information about the sustainability declaration, go to the Department of Infrastructure and Planning’s website.

Start your sustainable future – read about five ideas for living sustainably right here on Liza’s website.