Landlords have obligations in regards to fire alarms, gas safety and electrical safety of their rental properties.
Whilst electrical work is a highly specialised field, here are 5 tips from RealRenta to ensure you have a good basis for getting 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 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.
· Safety Switches
Some of the
states and territories impose a duty on the landlord to install safety switches
for lighting and power circuits and power outlets. Penalties may apply if
switches are not installed. Where in doubt, consult a licenced electrician.
· 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 manufacturers’ 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 corporates 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.
Ask us about our 2 for 1 Smoke Alarm offer!
Contact jason@realrenta.com
Jason Gwerder
Monday, 2 September 2019
