Water connections and moving
Water connections and moving
When buying, selling, or moving into a new property, it’s easy to overlook the water and sewerage connections, but ensuring everything is in order is essential. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand what to check.
Buying a property
In most cases, the property is already connected, unless:
- You're building a brand new home.
Check that your builder has applied for the water and sewerage connection on your behalf. If your contract with your builder doesn't include a water and sewerage connection, you will need to apply via the Connection Application form. - You're moving into a newly built home.
If there is a connection, but no water meter on the property, you will need to apply for a meter via the Connection Application form.
If there is a meter, and no water supply, check the meter is in the 'on' position. If there is still no supply, call our Customer Service Centre on 1300 729 283 for help.
What happens to your water and sewer account when ownership changes?
Water and sewer accounts are tied to the property title, meaning they automatically transfer to the new owner when the title is updated at settlement. Unlike gas and electricity, we don’t disconnect and reconnect water and sewerage services when people move in and out of a property. Our services stay active without interruption.
Important information from your conveyancer
When purchasing a property, your conveyancer must provide:
- Current water charges
- Any outstanding balance (including water usage from a special meter reading)
- Information about future charges
- Details on any encumbrances (easements, agreements, etc.) that may affect the property
Buyer's checklist
The following checks about your water and sewerage systems will help you understand the connections on your property before you buy.
- Ask your conveyancer about any encumbrances or easements that could affect the property.
- Check with your real estate agent if the property has a water or sewer easement, as this may impact future building or renovations.
Water system checks:
- Confirm the property has a water meter and note its location.
- If the water meter needs to be relocated to suit your plans, there may be additional fees. You can learn more about relocating meters here.
- Ensure the water meter is accessible for maintenance and readings. If the meter is blocked or encased in concrete, you may need to clear the obstruction or pay for relocation.
- If the property is in a dual water supply area, check with the Office of the Technical Regulator (OTR) to confirm no cross-connections exist between drinking and recycled water.
Sewerage system checks:
- Identify where the property’s sewerage connection is located. It's usually marked by a small steel plate on the footpath.
- For properties outside serviced areas, check if a septic system is used for sewerage.
- Have a licensed plumber inspect the condition of drains and pipes to ensure no blockages or cracks that could lead to costly repairs.
Selling a property
When selling, you’re responsible for rates and charges up until the settlement date, after which the buyer takes over.
Key steps for sellers:
- Water meter reading:
Your conveyancer will arrange for a special reading of the water meter, and any outstanding water usage will be adjusted based on the property’s daily average. This will appear on your final bill. - Disconnection:
You typically don’t need to disconnect water or sewerage services unless the property is being subdivided or demolished. If so, only internal pipework needs to be removed, and a cap placed on the meter outlet.
A special meter reading fee applies. You can view current fees here, or contact us on 1300 729 283 to arrange your own reading.
Conveyancers: Property information and application
If you are a conveyancer and need information about a current property’s water use, charges or encumbrances, please contact us on 1300 SA Water (1300 729 283).
Information about past property applications can be found using EPIC. EPIC is our fast, easy, and convenient online service, where you can view any applications you’ve made in the last 3 months.
