Water conservation Print


Desi​gn Checklist​

  1. The design of the building reduces the consumption of potable (drinkable) water, the quantity of urban stormwater run-off and increases the reuse of wastewater and stormwater on-site​

​​Water is a limited resource and apartment design can contribute to environmental sustainability by integrating measures for improved water efficiency.

Water can be conserved by reducing mains water demand and by re-using water which would otherwise be lost as stormwater run-off or waste water.​

Better Design Practice

Install water-efficient appliances.

Install water meters or check meters for individual apartments to discourage waste.

Consider rainwater tanks for collecting non-potable stormwater for toilet flushing, laundry use and garden irrigation.

Consider grey water recycling.

Avoid in-sink waste disposals and provide composting facilities at a central waste disposal area.

Ensure that inspection and maintenance regimes are in place for any stormwater systems.

Avoid using building materials that contaminate the environment.

For example, zinc and copper claddings increase contaminants in urban stormwater systems. These can require expensive systems to trap and remove contaminants from the water.

Consider green or brown roofs to contribute positively to on-site stormwater management and to maximise the amenity value of horizontal surfaces such as rooftops and podiums.

Rules of Thumb

Toilet flushing, laundry and garden irrigation make up 65 per cent of total household water use.

Rainwater should not be collected from roofs coated with lead or bitumen-based paints, or from asbestos-cement roofs. Normal guttering is sufficient for water collection provided that it is kept clear of leaves and debris.

For further information see: AS/NZS 3500 1.2: Water Supply. Standards New Zealand, 2003. Acceptable Solutions also provides guidance for the design of rainwater tanks with dual water supply systems.
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