Updated 27 October 2026
Energy efficiency is becoming a more visible part of owning, renting and selling property. Changes in the eastern states have prompted questions about assessments, compulsory upgrades and what may eventually apply in Western Australia.
For WA owners, the current position is straightforward: there is no general requirement to obtain and disclose an energy rating when selling or leasing an existing home. No WA commencement date for mandatory disclosure has been announced.
However, developments elsewhere make this a useful time to understand your property’s performance and plan future improvements.
A professional assessment examines how a home performs, including its construction, insulation, windows, orientation, heating, cooling and other energy-related features.
The national existing-home certificate includes two measures:
Solar panels can improve overall energy performance without fixing poor insulation or excessive heat entering through windows.
NSW began voluntary energy-rating disclosure in mid-2026. Owners can choose to share a rating when selling or leasing. The government intends to move towards mandatory disclosure, but has not set a commencement date.
The ACT already requires energy-rating disclosure for residential sales, with separate rules for rental disclosure and ceiling insulation.
Victoria’s additional minimum rental energy-efficiency standards will phase in from 1 March 2027. They cover heating, cooling, hot water, showerheads, ceiling insulation and draughtproofing. Different requirements have different triggers, deadlines and exemptions.
A rating and an obligation to upgrade are different things.
Disclosure provides information to prospective buyers or tenants. Minimum rental standards establish requirements a property must meet. A low rating does not, by itself, create a universal obligation to renovate. New-building energy standards are also separate from the requirements for selling or leasing an established home.
Start by keeping records of existing insulation, appliances, solar installations and other improvements.
When equipment needs replacement, consider suitable energy-efficient options alongside installation costs, maintenance and the property’s needs. Ask your property manager to identify practical improvements and explain whether each recommendation addresses an existing obligation, a maintenance issue or an optional upgrade.
Planning improvements around maintenance and vacancies can help owners manage costs and disruption.
Ray White Urban Springs can help you review maintenance priorities, obtain suitable trade advice and plan improvements for your investment property.
Contact your property manager to discuss your home’s condition and the options appropriate to your circumstances.
Information reflects the position at the date above. Requirements differ by jurisdiction and property circumstances.
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