Water conservation is essential to ensure a continued water supply for Queensland’s growing population, especially given that rainfall conditions can be highly variable. These requirements can assist to reduce demand on our water resources and infrastructure. In addition, installing water efficiency fixtures and fittings around the home not only saves water, but can also save you money on your future water bills.

The requirements apply to all new houses, townhouses and units. They also apply to existing houses, townhouses or units at time of renovation or extension. Prior to 1 March 2009, the Queensland Development Code (QDC) required all new houses and townhouses (class 1 buildings) and all units (class 2 buildings) to have 3-star WELS rated toilets and showerheads.

There were no previous minimum water efficiency requirements for tapware or garden irrigation systems.

When a renovation or extension requires both a building and plumbing approval, all toilet and showerhead fixtures within the dwelling, regardless of whether or not the fixture is part of the renovation or extension work, must be upgraded to a minimum 4-star WELS rating for toilets and a minimum 3-star WELS rating for showerheads.

Tapware installed in a new area of an existing house, townhouse or unit, is required to be a minimum 3-star WELS rated. There is no requirement to upgrade existing tapware in the dwelling.

Toilets and tapware need to be installed by a licensed plumber. Showerheads may be installed by the homeowner. A landscaper or homeowner may install a garden irrigation system.

Rental properties

Since 1 April 2008, landlords of rental properties have been able to pass on full water consumption costs to tenants where the building has been individually metered and water efficient fixtures - showerheads, toilets and tapware to kitchen sinks, basins and laundry tubs - are installed.

Charging arrangements must be stated in the tenancy agreement.

Guidelines

A guideline is available to assist with understanding how the sustainable housing requirements, including water conservation, 5-star housing, outdoor living areas and energy efficient lighting, apply to new houses, townhouses and units. It also provides information on how these requirements apply to alterations or additions to existing dwellings, such as extensions, renovations or relocations.

New and replacement garden irrigation systems must comply with the Queensland Water Commission's Efficient irrigation for water conservation ( 162 KB) guideline.

Check with your local council for possible irrigation and water restrictions.

Fact sheet ( 384 KB)

ClimateSmart Home Service - water and energy efficient showerhead

The ClimateSmart Home Service will provide and install a new water efficient showerhead for free if you have a showerhead that consumes more than 9 litres per minute.

The average Queensland household uses 27% of its electricity to heat water. A water efficient showerhead will reduce the amount of hot water you use while showering. This will in turn save energy by reducing the amount of hot water used for showering.

Visit the ClimateSmart Home Service website.