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If you’re moving in or out of a leased or rented property, there’s no need to let us know. We don't disconnect water and sewerage services when a property changes hands, so they'll be up and running when you move in.

The Unitywater account for a property is always in the owner’s name, as we do not bill tenants directly for water and sewerage services.

If you’re leasing or renting a business and have questions about the property's water and sewerage charges, please direct your questions to your real estate agent or landlord.

Understanding your bill

Landlords

As the owner of the property, you are responsible for managing the Unitywater account and paying all water and sewerage charges. 

Commercial lease agreements may set out the water, sewerage and/or trade waste charges that a tenant is required to pay to a landlord. Unitywater is not a party to these agreements.

If you own a commercial property that has tenants, we will send the water and sewerage bill directly to you, not your tenants. It is the owner's responsibility to pay the account, even if the tenant fails to pay.

  • If you are the owner and would like your tenants to receive the bill, simply update the billing address online.
  • If you would like a real estate agent or property management company to take care of the bills on your behalf, you can authorise someone to have access to your account and update the address the bill is sent to. 

Tenants

If you are a tenant of a commercial property, you will not receive a bill from us (unless the owner has changed the billing address so that it is sent to you).

It is very important that you are familiar with your lease agreement so you know whether you are required to pay the water, sewerage and trade waste bills.

Please refer to your agreement for further details or contact your landlord or leasing agent.

Business Queensland website: Leasing premises

Trade Waste

If you are buying or starting a business which generates, or may generate, trade waste it is recommended you request a Trade Waste Search.  Trade waste includes liquid waste such as grease, oils and chemicals.  A Trade Waste Search includes a site inspection report outlining the condition and suitability of any existing pre-treatment facilities.  
 
All businesses that generate trade waste also need a Trade Waste Permit from Unitywater. The person responsible for the generation of Trade Waste, which is sometimes the tenant in a leased property, is responsible for obtaining the Trade Waste permit and paying the Trade Waste account. 
More about Trade Waste Searches
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