Moving to a new rental property in Victoria? Are you aware of the fact that the property has its own required electrical safety checks? After all, electricity has become a necessity rather than just a modern-day convenience. It feels safe when all your electrical appliances, lights, and gadgets work efficiently without any issues. This blog highlights the need for an electrical rental safety check in Victoria, and how often you need one.
Whenever something goes wrong with our electrical equipment in the property, we tend to fix it immediately, employing our own tactics we already know. But, is it really safe to follow such a carefree approach that could lead to a disaster later? That is why a safety check is important before it gets to the situation of a complete electrical failure in the house.
Why Electrical Safety Checks Are Important?
Electrical safety checks are done to identify any potential hazards that could occur. They often get missed in our routine lifestyle. Damaged outlets, flawed wiring, or old appliances can lead to sudden, disastrous consequences like electric shocks, electrical fires, or complete power failures.
Electrical safety checks from time to time ensure:
- Defense against electrical risks
- Safety inspections in accordance with Victorian tenancy regulations
- Decreased likelihood of costly emergency repairs
- Peace for each and every resident.
Signs That You Need An Electrical Safety Check
Whether you are a landlord, a renter, or a homeowner in Victoria, it is a necessary requirement to get an electrical safety check once in a while. A tenant is also legally required to get regular safety checks in the property from time to time.
Here are some of the common signs that your property needs an electrical safety check now.
- Flickering lights
- Buzzing sounds near outlets
- Frequently tripped breakers
- Warm or discolored power points
A complete electrical safety check includes fixing all issues related to the electrical installations, appliances, and fixtures.
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How Often Do You Need a Rental Electrical Safety Check in Victoria?
The inspection frequency depends on the agreement signed between the property owner and the tenant. However, it is recommended to get an electrical safety check every 2-3 years if you are a homeowner, or at least once every two years, which is a mandatory requirement.
This consistent schedule helps maintain the safety standards as per the Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021, Victoria. This keeps your property legally compliant with all the safety guidelines mentioned in your agreement.
Things Included In An Electrical Safety Check In Victoria
First & foremost, an electrical safety check must be performed by a licensed electrician to get a comprehensive analysis of your property’s current electrical systems. Generally, a safety check includes the following things-
- Electrical Appliances: These include hardwired ovens, cooktops, fixed heaters, split system air conditioners, etc.
- Electrical Installations: Includes power outlets & switches, lighting systems, or fixing any issues with the internal or external wiring.
- Switchboards & Circuit Protection: This includes the recovery and fixation of any residual current devices (RCD), fuses & breakers, etc.
- Smoke Alarms: This is to check the battery condition and proper functionality of the smoke alarms. Location & placements checks are done.
All these safety checks are performed in accordance with Victoria’s AS/NZS 3019 standards that assure residents of the safety they need. Besides, it frees them from any legal responsibilities that the property owner has set.
Booking An Electrical Safety Check In Victoria
There are simple steps to book an electrical safety check in Victoria.
- Select a professional electrician licensed by Energy Safe Victoria (ESV).
- Schedule an inspection time that works best for you.
- Make sure to get a proper documentation report outlining safety issues & checks.
You can also save these records for future inspections you might need.
Conclusion
It is crucial to give electrical safety inspections top priority in Victoria’s rental properties in order to protect both tenants and property owners. Frequent inspections guarantee adherence to the Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021 in addition to assisting in the identification and mitigation of possible hazards. You can improve the safety of your living space and avoid expensive repairs by taking quick care of problems like flickering lights or discolored power outlets.
In the end, spending money on regular electrical safety inspections promotes peace of mind because you know that your property complies with safety regulations and safeguards all occupants. Don’t ignore this crucial component of property upkeep. Appliance Fixer provides you with regular electrical safety checks in Melbourne, Victoria.
