SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE OBLIGATIONS
SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE OBLIGATIONS

Safety & compliance obligations are set to significantly increase for Victorian landlords when the changes to the Residential Tenancy Act 1997 (Vic) become law on or before January 1st, 2021.

Whilst the final details are still to be determined, initial drafts of the proposed legislation are suggesting that for the first time, it will be mandatory for landlords to ensure their properties have:

  • Smoke Alarm safety checks at least once every 12 months
  • Gas & electrical safety checks of all appliances, installations & fittings at least every 2 years; and
  • Detailed records of all safety checks retained, and reports made available to tenants on request

The draft Residential Tenancies Act (VIC) regulations state that only licensed gas fitters and electricians will be able to conduct the gas and electrical services and their licence details must be kept on record.

Furthermore, upon the change of each tenancy and within 7 days of a request from a tenant, a detailed compliance report with specific mandatory information will be required to be sent to tenants showing that the property is compliant. All properties, including new properties will require these services to comply.

It is the responsibility of every agency and landlord to provide a safe living environment for tenants. Whilst this has always been the case, the draft changes to the Residential Tenancy Act (VIC) will see these obligations becoming more specific, more rigorous and enforceable.

We are currently speaking with providers to ascertain what programs can be provided to facilitate these new regulations. Whilst we already have smoke alarm and carbon monoxide programs in place, we are investigating the electrical component and expect to be able to implement a service once final details are known.

We will keep you informed as more details come to light.

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