What is a sustainability declaration?
A Sustainability Declaration is a compulsory checklist, which must be completed for every domestic property advertised for sale in Queensland.
The declaration will inform prospective purchasers about the sustainability features of a property and increase community awareness of the value of such features.
The declaration identifies the dwelling’s sustainability features in energy, water, access. & safety.
We are trained and qualified to provide you with a sustainability declaration for your property.
Why is the sustainability declaration being introduced?
“There is growing concern about the impacts of climate change and the need to improve the sustainability performance of existing housing in Queensland. Encouraging prospective buyers to make informed choices about the sustainability performance of residential buildings is becoming increasingly important. Properties with a greater number of sustainability features potentially have lower energy costs and use less water. They can also be more comfortable to live in and generate fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Homes with access and safety features may be more liveable for occupants during their various life stages and can reduce potential risks around the home such as trips and falls”.
“The declaration aims to increase awareness of sustainable housing features when a property is marketed for sale. It also promotes possible ongoing financial and environmental benefits that could be achieved with specific features. It is anticipated that the declaration will help promote the sustainability of a home and become a key marketing tool for real estate agents and private sellers.”
Do advertisements need to refer to the sustainability declaration?
“Yes. Under the new legislation, from 1 January 2010 real estate agents and private sellers cannot publish an advertisement for the sale of a property unless the advertisement includes information about where a copy of the sustainability declaration can be obtained. This requirement applies to online listings, real estate agency windowpane advertisements and all other forms of advertising”.
Once we complete your sustainability declaration we will provide you with a hard copy and an online address where prospective buyers can view your sustainability declaration at anytime.
“It excludes advertisements published in newspapers and magazines or signs that are not designed to specifically advertise the sale of a particular property (e.g. a generic ‘for sale’ sign). If requested, the sustainability declaration must be made available to a prospective buyer”.
Will the declaration be required at open inspections?
During open homes a copy of the sustainability declaration must be conspicuously displayed at the property.
Is a sustainability declaration required for properties placed on the market before 1 January 2010?
It doesn’t matter when the property was initially listed for sale. A sustainability declaration will be required for all residential properties that continue to be marketed after 1 January 2010. Make an appointment today to avoid disappointment when January 1 comes around.
Can a seller refuse to complete the sustainability declaration?
There are maximum penalties of up to $2000 where a seller refuses to complete a sustainability declaration. All properties listed for sale after the 1st January 2010 must have a completed sustainability declaration and outline on all marketing material where a copy can be obtained.
Do rental properties need a sustainability declaration?
When a new lease is signed for rental properties a sustainability declaration is not required.
*information on this page is sourced from http://www.dip.qld.gov.au/sustainable-housing/sustainability-declaration.html (1st December 2009)
