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Questions about Victorian compliance
The rules that apply to rental properties in Victoria, what a check involves, and how billing and access work.
The rules
How often does a rental property need an electrical safety check?
Every two years. The rental provider is responsible for arranging it, and the date of the last check has to be disclosed to renters. If a check is already overdue, Kappa can usually get out within a few days.
How often do smoke alarms need checking?
Annually. Every alarm has to be tested, and any that are faulty or past their expiry date have to be replaced. Alarms also have to be the right type and in the right locations.
Who is allowed to carry out an electrical safety check?
Only a licensed or registered electrician. Kappa Electrical is a registered electrical contractor, REC 32198, and a Certificate of Electrical Safety is issued after every check.
What are the rental minimum standards?
A set of baseline requirements a property has to meet before a new tenancy starts, covering things like working power outlets, adequate lighting, ventilation in bathrooms and functioning safety switches. The electrical items are assessed and you get a clear pass-or-fix list.
Do you do gas safety checks?
No. Gas checks have to be carried out by a licensed gasfitter. If you need all three checks on a property, we'll refer you to a gasfitter we work with so they can be booked around the same visit.
What happens if a check is overdue?
The rental provider is non-compliant until it's done, which can matter if a claim or dispute comes up. Get in touch and it'll be prioritised. Overdue properties are usually booked within a few days.
On the day
What actually gets inspected?
The main switchboard and earthing system, then each area of the property: kitchen, bathrooms and ensuites, bedrooms, living areas, laundry and garage. Fixed items are also checked, including solar and battery systems, electric water heaters, dishwashers, room and space heaters, and swimming pool equipment. Everything is recorded in the report.
How long does it take?
Usually 45 minutes to an hour and a half for a standard house, depending on size and how much is installed. Electrical and smoke alarm checks are done in the same visit where possible.
Does the renter need to be home?
Someone needs to provide access, but it doesn't have to be the renter. A key or a lockbox works. The renter is contacted directly and given the required notice, so agencies don't have to run the scheduling.
What if something fails the check?
You get a clear list of what needs fixing and a price before anything is done. Small rectifications are usually completed on the spot so the property isn't left non-compliant, and anything larger is quoted and booked separately.
When do I get the report?
The same day. It comes as a written Kappa Electrical Compliance Report, ready to file against the property, along with the Certificate of Electrical Safety.
For agencies
How do I send a work order?
However you already send them. Email or text the property address and access details, and it's acknowledged within the hour on a business day. Agencies on our books can also raise it in the Agent Portal, which lands in the same job system.
Can you track when our properties are next due?
Yes. Due dates are recorded against each property in the Agent Portal and your reminder goes out ahead of time, so checks are booked before they lapse rather than after. Send through your rent roll addresses and last check dates to get set up.
Can you handle several properties at once?
Yes. Send a list rather than one form per property and they'll be scheduled as a batch, with reports and invoicing grouped together.
Who talks to the tenant?
Kappa does. You pass on the contact details and access is arranged directly, with the notice period observed. Your team stays out of the back-and-forth.
Pricing and billing
What does a check cost?
Prices are listed in full on the pricing page, including the combined electrical and smoke alarm package. They're fixed prices, not estimates.
Who pays, the agency or the owner?
Either. Invoices can go to the agency for disbursement or directly to the rental provider, whichever suits your process. Agencies sending regular volume can be invoiced monthly instead of per job.
Is a quote free for repair work?
Yes. Quotes for repairs, switchboard upgrades and installs are free and fixed. The price is agreed before any work starts.