NSW renters deserve healthier homes

Renters in NSW should be afforded minimum energy efficiency standards in rental properties according to St Vincent de Paul Society NSW.

“As more and more people remain in the rental market for longer due to the prohibitive cost of home ownership, it is vital that properties are suitable and reflect the changing weather conditions that are resulting in more extreme temperatures,” said Yolanda Saiz, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW Acting CEO.

“The next NSW Government needs to introduce minimum energy efficiency standards for rental properties to improve living standards and reduce overall energy costs for renters.

“Prior to the last state election, the NSW Government introduced baseline standards for rental properties.

“However, we have yet to see anything mandated relating to energy efficiency or thermal performance.

“It is estimated that 700,000 rental properties across the state are energy inefficient, while raising a home from a 2-star to 5-star energy rating has the capacity to halve the energy needed to heat or cool a property.

“Introducing of minimum standards can only be beneficial for households by improving living standards and reducing energy costs by encouraging energy efficient upgrades and retrofits.

“It will also be in the interest of landlords to ensure the value of properties,” Ms Saiz said.

“Our members and volunteers are constantly hearing from people who are unable to cool their homes in summer or turn on a heater during winter due to soaring energy prices,” said Paul Burton, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW State Council President.

“As a society, we should expect that everyone is afforded dignity in housing and has a suitable place to safely call home.

“At present, more than four in five people who sought assistance from the Society were renting through the private market, social and affordable housing or government housing during the first half of the financial year, while close to half experienced housing stress.

“Introducing minimum energy efficiency standards is a practical step that can improve the living circumstances for renters across the state,” Mr Burton said.

Media contact: Lachlan Jones 0417 446 430