Does anyone know what the law is regarding renting and RCD's

[PumpkinZulu]

Hey guys, just wondering if anyone knows the law (and if there is one at all) regarding renting a property and having an RCD (safety switch). We're currently renting privately and the flat doesn't have a safety switch, just a super old fuse box. Wondering whether we will need to foot the bill for installing one or our landlord.

[toomanyshoes]

I was under the impression they had to have them, same with smoke/fire alarms.

[PumpkinZulu]

There no smoke alarms either

[Artechim]

They need smoke alarms.

When we were in QLD a RCD had to be installed when a house changed ownership. So if they have owned the house for a long time then they might not have had to upgrade it. Not sure what happens when you put renters in though.

[HotI]

Smoke alarms definitely have to be installed.

[toomanyshoes]

I would be calling your states tenancy people

http://www.tuv.org.au/

[PumpkinZulu]

Yep, I bought a three pack of alarms yesterday, just need my brother to come over with a ladder and put them up!

ETA thanks TMS!

[Miss.September]

Asked DH about this - An existing home doesn't need an RCD provided the house is electrically sound. If you put in a new switchboard or a new powerpoint goes in, a safety switch must be put in. But in saying that, this rule applies to electrical contractors - not to landlords. So as your apartment stands now, an RCD isn't needed by law (but I totally understand why you'd want one).

As for smoke detectors, DH is 90% certain that not only do they have to be installed, but they also have to be hardwired. To find out for sure, you can contact ESV - I'll PM you with the details.

[MamaPan]

you would def need smoke alarms and i would think you are within your rights to request safety switch too. maybe give the agents a call abd register your concerns.

[YoYo]

Pretty sure you do. In Perth anyway.... Rcd and hard wired smoke alarms


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[Cranky Kitten]

Yep, in Perth it is mandatory to have both a hard wired smoke alarm and RCD installed on all properties prior to them being sold or leased. All houses built after 1994 should have an RCD already, as they became law for newly built homes at this time.

Don't know about other states though - check your tenancy advice bureau.

[rubibaby]

Here's a list of the various rental authorities, Finding the legislation and rules for renting - LJ Hooker
I'd contact the one in Victoria to confirm what is mandatory and not.