The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government has announced it will help reduce energy bills for renters by introducing a new minimum standard for ceiling insulation in rental properties.
From 1 April 2023, the standard will require ACT rental homes with very poor ceiling insulation be upgraded.
It will require that landlords and rental providers indicate whether their property meets the minimum standard in rental advertisements and lease agreements, and will ensure renters and prospective renters are provided with information on a property’s compliance.
Energy Efficiency Council (EEC) CEO Luke Menzel said the current energy price crisis is hitting renters hard, and energy efficiency is one of the best ways to respond.
“Well installed ceiling insulation helps keep homes warm in winter and cool in summer, and means renters don’t need to run heaters and air conditioners hard to stay comfortable.”
Ensuring insulation is installed safely by qualified trades has been a key focus for the ACT Government. Meeting the new insulation standard and accessing available financial support will require electrical safety checks, and for installation to be undertaken by trained and approved installers. This supports best practice quality control and safety in the installation process, as recommended by the Roadmap for quality control and safety in insulation installation.
“The use of EEC Certified Insulation Installers enables industry and government to maintain quality while scaling up efforts to insulate Australia’s poorly performing housing stock,” said Mr Menzel.
“It also supports the expansion of the skilled workforce we need to upgrade the thermal performance of Australian homes. This will improve health, cut energy bills and support Australia’s achievement of net zero.”
The standard will commence on 1 April 2023, with a phase-in period to 30 November 2026.
