Landlords have obligations in regards to fire alarms, gas safety and the electrical safety in their investment properties.
Whilst electrical work is highly specialised, here are some tips from RealRenta to get you started:
Smoke Alarms:
Landlords are required to ensure that their properties are
fitted with smoke alarms and the number of alarms must be appropriate for the
property size, as prescribed under the Building Code of Australia.
Each alarm must be tested within 30 days before the start of
the tenancy, as well as renewals.
Spent batteries and batteries that are almost spent, need to
be replaced within 30 days before the start of a new tenancy or renewal.
Alarms need to be replaced before reaching the end of their
service and this is indicated by the warranty.
Ask us about our 2 for 1 deal, from our partner Smoke Alarm
Solutions (contact jason@realrenta.com).
Safety switches:
Some states and territories impose a duty on the landlord
to install safety switches for lighting and power circuits and outlets.
Penalties may apply if switches are not installed.
Where in doubt, consult a licenced technician.
Electrical safety:
All electrical work must be performed by licenced persons.
Before a tenancy, ensure that all appliances are in good
working order.
Dirty appliances should be cleaned in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions and faulty appliances should be replaced.
Appliances and wiring should be checked to ensure there is
no damage to wiring or casing.
Advise your tenants to report any faults to you directly
(via the RealRenta platform) and
advise them not to install or remove any faulty appliances.
Fire Safety :
Landlords need to ensure that furnishings are fire
resistant.
In the case of body corporate or apartments, provide extra
fire safety measures like fire blankets, extinguishers, fire emergency exits,
fire doors and smoke detectors in common areas.
Gas safety:
All maintenance and installations must be carried out by
licenced gas fitters and any repairs should be performed promptly and
appliances made safe for use before each tenancy.
Join the growing number of smart Aussie property investors who are
cutting their costs by using RealRenta to automatically manage their investment
properties.
Use RealRenta for up to 2 months free now: https://app.realrenta.com/Signup.aspx
Marlene Liontis
Friday, 21 June 2019
