New legislation regarding the sale of homes was passed on November 12th 2009 amending the PAMD (Property Agents and Motor Dealers Act) & the Building Act. This new legislation requires QLD home sellers (vendors) to complete a Sustainability Declaration to accompany the sale of a property.
So what is a sustainability declaration? A sustainability declaration is a compulsory 56 point checklist that must be completed by the seller (vendor) when selling a house, townhouse or unit. It will be required as part of the sale from 1 January 2010.
Properties that have a greater number of sustainability features can have lower operating costs and be more energy and water efficient. They use less energy for heating and cooling, generate fewer greenhouse gas emissions, use less water—and best of all, are more comfortable to live in. Sustainability features such as access and safety also mean that the property will be suitable for owners during their various life stages and will reduce the need for costly future upgrades.
This Declaration aims to increase the awareness and marketability of the dwelling’s sustainable building features and will act as an incentive to improve the sustainability performance of Queensland’s 1.6 million existing homes. For those homeowners who have already taken steps to improve the sustainability of their property, this means that the environmental, social and financial benefits of those features can be recognised when the property is on the market.
The checklist will identify the property’s environmental and social sustainability features in four key areas:
- Energy
- Water
- Safety
- Access
The declaration is designed to be completed by the property owner or a delegated individual and does not require the services of a specialist or professional. If an owner is unable to complete the form, they can seek help from another person to complete it on their behalf as long as the owner signs it.
For more information on the Sustainability Declaration please refer to this Fact Sheet.
For a copy of the Sustainability Declaration click here.
Brought to you by Tony Nash – RE/MAX Property Associates Sunshine Coast
Phone Tony and his team today on 07 5452 4545
www.rentaladvice.com.au
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