If you’re an investor with a rental in Victoria, here’s a bit of a truth bomb: You can no longer advertise your property for lease until it’s passed a safety check. And yes, that can be frustrating, especially if you have recently purchased an investment property and have not had the safety checks completed, and you’re keen to get your property back on the market quickly.
But these safety checks in Victoria are more than just satisfying requirements. These checks are there to keep people safe, and to keep investors like you legally covered.
What’s Actually Involved?
Under the current legislation, rental providers need to have gas and electrical safety checks done every two years, and smoke alarm checks every 12 months, carried out by properly qualified and licensed trades.
These aren’t optional extras or “nice to have” recommendations. Think of your hot water systems, heating, cooking appliances, smoke alarms (remember these are actually every 12 months, not the two years like the other appliances)… the works. All need to be checked, logged, and documented before your property can legally hit the rental market again.
The Timing Trap
Here’s where it gets tricky. When a renter gives notice, most investors want to advertise the property ASAP to avoid a vacancy. But you can’t list it until all safety checks are complete, and getting them done isn’t always simple. While we aim to keep properties on a regular testing schedule, it often comes down to timing. Renters preparing to move are (understandably) focused on their next chapter, which can make access for last-minute checks more difficult than expected.
Trying to arrange these checks while a renter is still in place is tough. Access can be limited, appliances might not be accessible, and it can delay everything. It’s far more efficient, and less stressful, to get it sorted as soon as the renter gives notice, or even better, ahead of time if your check is nearly due.
When a “Passed” Check Isn’t Enough
We’ve seen a few surprises over the years. In one case, a client passed their compliance check back in 2022, only to fail in 2024. What happened? The hot water system wasn’t even tested the first time around. When it finally was, it turned out it needed relocating altogether to meet current standards.
The lesson? Not all safety checks are the same.
Finding the Right Trades (Not Just Any Trades)
We’ll be honest: The “Safety Check Industry” has felt a bit like the Wild West lately. Since the regulations came into effect, we’ve seen too many investors stung by rushed or overpriced checks from trades who don’t always do the full job. It’s been a process of trial, error, and learning on our feet, but we’ve now built a trusted network of trades we know do the job properly, at fair prices.
That peace of mind is everything when you’re handing over the keys to your investment.
Yes, It’s an Expense, But It’s Also Insurance
It can feel a bit like another cost the government’s lumping on your plate. But time and again, we’re discovering issues in properties that could have led to serious safety risks: carbon monoxide leaks, faulty wiring, or hot water systems that are not following the safety standards.
Sure, you’re being asked to spend more. But in doing so, you’re protecting your renters, your property, and yourself.
Do you need help with your safety checks?
We’re happy to talk you through it. We’ll handle the booking, follow-up, and paperwork too. Get in touch with us and let’s take the extra stress out of your safety checks.
