ARTICLE · 14 APRIL 2010

New Sustainability Obligations of Vendors and Developers

Barry Nilsson

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In a bid to improve sustainability in the building sector, all Queensland house, townhouse and unit vendors are now required to complete sustainability declarations under amendments to the Building Act 1975 ("the Act").

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In a bid to improve sustainability in the building sector, all Queensland house, townhouse and unit vendors are now required to complete sustainability declarations under amendments to the Building Act 1975 ("the Act"). Having taken effect from 1 January 2010, the Building and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2009 adds to existing building requirements and is aimed at informing potential purchasers about building features including energy and water use, access and safety. The amendments also affect bodies corporate and developers. The 'ban the banners' provisions seek to prevent developers from enforcing:

Covenants in building contracts that restrict the use of sustainable features in favour of aesthetics; and

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