SAFETY COMPLIANCE DATE ALMOST HERE

The deadline for property safety compliance is only 6 weeks away. This means that by 29th March 2023 every private residential rental property in Victoria is required by law to complete their first full safety and compliance service, depending on the lease status of their property.

Electrical safety rental minimum standard

By the deadline of 29th March 2023, rental providers need to ensure that their rental properties comply with the electrical safety rental minimum standard.

The requirements stipulate that modern style switchboards with circuit breakers and electrical safety switches are installed by a qualified electrician, if not done so already, and a safety compliance certificate is issued.

Gas safety checks

Gas safety checks by a licensed or registered gasfitter must be conducted every two years.

When conducting a ‘gas safety check’ gasfitters must ensure that they service all Type A Gas Appliances (domestic appliances) at a rented premises in accordance with Australian Standard AS4575. The safety check must include a copy of the record of work created by the gasfitter and be given to the rental provider for each Type A Appliance serviced.

Curtain and blind cords

Curtain and blind cords can strangle children, and tragically at least 21 Australian children have died due to unsecured cords since 2001.

To secure loose cords you can order a free curtain and blind cord safety kit from Consumer Affairs Victoria or purchase a kit from your local hardware store. The safety kit contains a device that tensions looped cords to a window frame, so they are no longer loose, reducing the likelihood of strangulation. Renters do not need a rental providers permission to install safety kits.

Checking curtain and blind cord safety

Tension devices that enclose cords and chains have been mandatory in homes since 2010. Older curtains and blinds in your properties should be checked. When buying new curtains or blinds, ensure they have safety design features which enable long cords to be secured or if you pay to have new curtains or blinds with cords installed, the installer must attach a label with their name and details. This label must not be removed.