I believe one of the primary reasons for implementing the sustainability declaration was to increase awareness of environmentally friendly homes rather than to act as a selling tool.
Below is a guideline we have done up for our company in complying with the changes:
- All listing must have a sustainability form completed BEFORE any marketing commences
- Form can be obtained from
www.dip.qld.gov.au
- The form MUST be completed by the seller only
- Agents should NOT assist the seller in completing the form
- Agents may direct the seller to government site and provide government facts sheet
- Sellers must complete the form to the best of their ability and knowledge. Where the seller cannot reasonably find out information or has no technical knowledge about the feature then the box may be left blank.
- Properties sold off the plan must also have a completed declaration by the seller
Inspections:
- A copy of the form must be displayed at all open homes in a visible location
- Private inspections the potential buyer must be given a copy of the form or have it displayed visibly during the inspection
- Any brochures cannot be given before the sustainability form – It is recommended open for inspection brochures are stapled with the sustainability form.
- The form may be supplied electronically
Advertising:
- All forms of advertising must include information informing the buyer where they may obtain a copy of the declaration such as ‘the sustainability declaration for this property can be obtained by contacting McAndrew Properties’
- Newspaper & Magazines are exempt from the above
- Feature Sign must have the information stated above
- Internet listings must have the information stated above
- The seller’s details may be excluded from declarations given to potential purchasers. The final purchaser should however be given a completed declaration.
Another point to note is that this form is NOT grounds to terminate a contract should it become apparent that an error was made in completing the form. Compensation/legal remedies can however be sought by the purchaser.