img-3According to the Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021, property landlords in Victoria, Australia, should get electrical safety checks every 2 years.
This requirement stresses the obligation to keep rental properties safe for tenants. It also protects landlords from business risks due to poor maintenance, like damages, injuries, and fines.
To ensure your property is up to code, we discuss electrical safety checks in detail, the tasks involved, and their costs.

What is the Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021?

The Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021 outlines the safety obligations of Victorian landlords and managers. One of their responsibilities is to conduct electrical safety checks every 2 years and provide these records to their tenants.

Adhering to this regulation protects rental providers from legal disputes and hefty fines.

What Should Landlords Do to Comply?

Landlords in Victoria are required to get electrical safety checks to comply with the Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021. For your convenience, here’s a checklist summarising all the requirements.

Electrical Safety Checklist

  • Qualified Professional in Charge: Licensed electricians
  • Areas for Inspection: Wiring, electrical connections, appliances, and switchgear
  • Safety Check Frequency: Inspection and servicing every 2 years or during a change of tenancy
  • Documentation: Landlords must keep a comprehensive log of all electrical safety checks conducted. They must also provide a compliance certificate to tenants upon request.

Victorian landlords must consistently adhere to these legislative requirements. Strict compliance safeguards their property investment and the tenants’ well-being.
You can learn more about electrical safety inspection from Consumer Affairs Victoria.

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What Do Electrical Safety Checks Involve?

Here are the tasks of your qualified professional during a safety check so you’ll know what to expect.

Electrical Safety Check Tasks

Electrical safety checks aim to inspect and test electric wiring, fittings, and appliances within the rental property to prevent issues and hazards. An electrical check covers the visual inspection and/or testing verification of the following:

  • Consumer mains: Ensure proper current rating and size for overloading and fire prevention.
  • Electrical switchboard: Check for visual damage and ensure the cables are ideal for the current rating. It also checks whether the switchboard trips when a fault is present.
  • Earthing system: Test if faults, stay currents, and lightning strikes can safely dissipate into the ground, reducing the risk of electrical shocks, fires, and damage.
  • Power sockets: Check the condition of each powerpoint and spot the need for replacement.
  • Lighting: Test each light fitting and ensure all are functional and in good condition.
  • Electrical wiring: Check if they have the appropriate size and are not degraded.
  • Electrical appliances: Ensure ovens, cooktops, dishwashers, fridges, ceiling fans, EV chargers, air conditioning units, washing machines, dryers, and hot water systems are all working, properly installed, and free of damage.
  • Smoke alarms: Verify if they are functional and in the correct positions. Electricians will check the expiry date, alarm battery, and sound. They also ensure there are enough smoke alarms on the property.

A typical electrical safety check usually takes 1 to 3 hours. However, it may take longer for large rental properties with complex or problematic electric systems.

After the electrical safety check, your licensed electrician will accomplish a detailed report of all inspection findings. The report outlines all potential hazards and recommendations for improvement. Photos are often included as evidence.

Victorian landlords should understand the results and do the necessary maintenance or repairs.

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How Much Do Electrical Safety Checks Cost?

In Victoria, an electrical safety check is about $225 to $300. However, safety check fees can vary based on these factors:

  • property size
  • complexity of the electrical system
  • the number of appliances for checking
  • servicing technician or company

It’s best to contact your preferred licensed electrician for an accurate price quote.

Schedule Your Next Electrical Safety Check

Landlords and property managers should be proactive about maintenance and safety checks. By doing regular electrical inspections, you can avoid untoward incidents or address issues before they worsen.

Partner with a reliable service provider to ensure a safe living environment for your tenants. Call Canny Electrics at 1300 522 446 for your electrical safety check needs.