Rental Electrical Safety Checks in Victoria: A Landlord’s Guide

What the law requires

Under Victoria’s residential tenancy rules, rental providers (landlords) must:

• Have an electrical safety check done at least every two years by a licensed electrician
• Have smoke alarms checked and tested at least every 12 months
• Keep a record of the checks, and give the renter a copy of the report if they ask

There are also separate gas safety check requirements if the property has gas appliances. Rules can change, so check Consumer Affairs Victoria for the current requirements.

What an electrical safety check covers

• Switchboard condition, circuit breakers and safety switch (RCD) operation and trip times
• Power outlets, switches and light fittings for damage or overheating
• Visible wiring, cords and fixed appliances such as ovens, cooktops and hot water systems
• Earthing and bonding
• Smoke alarm operation, age and placement

Minimum standards for electrical safety

Victoria’s rental minimum standards also cover electrical safety. In general, power outlets and lighting circuits need to be connected to a switchboard with circuit breakers and RCD safety switches. If your rental still has old fuses, a switchboard upgrade may be needed.

How long it takes and what it costs

A check takes around an hour for a typical house or unit, longer for large or multi-tenancy properties. Doing the smoke alarm check at the same visit covers both obligations at once. If anything unsafe is found, you get a clear report and a quote for the repair. Minor fixes can often be done on the day with your approval.

Tips for landlords and property managers

• Book checks at the start of a new tenancy so the record is fresh
• Keep reports with photos in your property file
• Fix defects quickly. Safety issues shouldn’t wait
• Use an electrician who contacts the tenant directly for access

Need help?

RNP Electrical is a licensed local electrician (REC 34060) based in Altona North, covering all of Melbourne’s west. See our Rental Safety Checks service, or call Rami on 0402 132 759 for a fixed-price quote.