As a landlord in Victoria, it is a legal requirement, not only best practice, to ensure your rental property is safe, compliant, and legally maintained. You must understand gas and electric safety checks for landlords in Victoria to ensure you are keeping your renters safe, complying with all local laws, and protecting your investment, regardless of whether you manage only one apartment or an entire property portfolio.
This will be your comprehensive guide to 2025, covering: legal responsibilities and compliance for landlords under the Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021; gas and electricity timelines; premises that can undergo safe certification; and the experience of a gas and electricity inspection in Melbourne and statewide (Victoria).
Why Are Gas and Electric Safety Checks Mandatory in Victoria?
Residential rental providers are required, under Victorian law, to ensure their rental properties are maintained in good repair and are safe for renters. The Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021 strengthened residential rental providers’ obligations regarding gas and electricity safety checks.
If you are a residential rental provider and fail to comply with your obligations, you could:
- Penalties and legal liabilities.
- Risk to tenant safety.
- Insurance voidance.
- Renters filing urgent repairs or VCAT disputes.
What Is Included in Gas and Electric Safety Checks?
Gas Safety Checks
A gas safety check is more than just a routine inspection it’s a detailed assessment of your property’s entire gas system. This includes:
- Inspection of all gas appliances (heaters, cooktops, water heaters)
- Testing for carbon monoxide leaks
- Ensuring appliances are properly ventilated
- Pressure testing and gas leak detection
- Verification of installation standards
Licensed gas fitters will also check the gas supply line, regulators, and ensure compliance with the Australian Gas Safety Standards.
Electrical Safety Checks
Electrical safety checks focus on minimizing risks such as electrical fires or electrocution. A licensed electrician will:
- Inspect and test all power points and lighting fixtures.
- Assess the condition of switchboards and safety switches.
- Ensure proper earthing and bonding.
- Look for any wiring issues or electrical faults.
- Test residual current devices (RCDs).
What Are the Legal Requirements for Landlords?
Since March 29, 2021, all Victorian landlords must complete:
- A gas safety check every two years.
- An electrical safety check every two years.
These checks must be conducted by a licensed professional, and records must be retained for at least seven years. If your property has new tenants and it has been more than two years since the last check, you are required to arrange an inspection before the tenancy begins or as soon as practicable.
Who Can Perform Gas and Electrical Safety Checks?
Only licensed professionals are authorized to perform gas and electric inspections in Victoria.
- A gas safety check must be done by a licensed gas fitter registered with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA).
- An electrical safety check must be carried out by a licensed electrician.
It’s important to hire professionals familiar with Victorian rental legislation to ensure full compliance. Platforms like Powerband Electrical in Melbourne offer bundled gas and electrical services to help landlords stay on track.
What Happens During a Safety Check?
Gas Safety Process
- Initial inspection of gas appliances.
- Visual and operational assessment.
- Carbon monoxide testing.
- Leak detection and repairs, if necessary.
- Issuing of a compliance certificate or report.
Electrical Safety Process
- Visual inspection of the electrical installation.
- Testing of power points and light fittings.
- Evaluation of safety switches (RCDs).
- Load and insulation resistance testing.
- Issue of compliance report or fault report.
What If Issues Are Found During the Inspection?
If safety risks or faults are discovered:
- Immediate repairs must be scheduled with licensed tradespeople.
- You must provide your tenant with evidence of rectification work.
- All repairs must be recorded with supporting documentation and invoices.
Neglecting to act on these issues can result in legal action from tenants or fines from Consumer Affairs Victoria.
Keeping Your Property Safe Year-Round
Maintaining a safe property goes beyond a biennial safety check. To keep your property safe, consider:
- Conducting annual visual inspections
- Responding quickly to tenant complaints
- Using reputable, licensed service providers
- Keeping detailed maintenance records
- Ensuring smoke alarms are tested every year
By staying proactive, you reduce the likelihood of emergencies and increase tenant satisfaction.
Common Misconceptions About Gas and Electric Checks
“My appliances are brand new, so I don’t need a safety check.”
Even new appliances can develop faults or be installed incorrectly. The law mandates checks every two years regardless of the appliance’s age.
“I already do regular maintenance, so I’m covered.”
Routine maintenance doesn’t replace the legal requirement for a formal safety inspection by licensed professionals.
“I can just do it myself.”
DIY checks are not legally valid. You must hire licensed gas and electrical tradespeople to comply with Victorian regulations.
How Much Do Gas and Electrical Safety Checks Cost?
The cost varies depending on:
- Number of appliances
- Location (e.g., gas and electricity Melbourne providers)
- Urgency or availability
- Whether services are bundled
On average:
- Gas safety checks: $250–$400
- Electrical safety checks: $250–$400
Providers like Powerband Electrical offer package deals that can reduce total costs while ensuring compliance and quality workmanship.
How to Choose the Right Provider for Safety Checks
When hiring a provider for gas and electrical safety checks in Melbourne, consider:
- VBA or Energy Safe Victoria license
- Experience with rental property compliance
- Insurance and warranties
- Transparent pricing and reporting
- Google reviews or references
Avoid cheap, unlicensed operators who may jeopardize your legal compliance and property safety.
Tips to Stay Compliant with Victorian Laws
- Keep a compliance calendar: Set reminders for inspections every two years.
- Work with reliable professionals: Build a relationship with licensed gas and electrical contractors.
- Store documentation digitally: Keep records of reports and repairs in cloud storage.
- Educate tenants: Let renters know what to expect and encourage reporting of potential issues.
- Include checks in lease preparation: Make safety checks part of your tenancy setup process.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failing to meet gas and electric safety obligations may lead to:
- Fines issued by Consumer Affairs Victoria.
- Urgent repairs orders from VCAT.
- Breach of duty notices from tenants.
- Increased liability in case of injury or property damage.
In severe cases, landlords may be required to compensate tenants or cover damages due to neglect.
Why Proactive Landlords Are Choosing Combined Safety Check Packages
Bundled safety services streamline compliance and reduce overall cost. By scheduling gas and electric inspections together, you:
- Save on call-out fees.
- Ensure timely compliance.
- Minimise tenant disruption.
- Receive a consolidated compliance report.
Powerband Electrical offers Melbourne landlords affordable bundled packages tailored for the 2025 regulations ideal for those juggling multiple properties or tight schedules.
Final Thoughts
The rules for gas and electric safety checks for landlords in Victoria are clear: you’re legally obligated to inspect your property every two years and ensure it meets the latest safety standards. Beyond legal compliance, these checks protect your tenants, your property, and your peace of mind.
Whether you’re new to property management or a seasoned landlord, make safety inspections a priority not just for compliance, but for the long-term safety and livability of your rental property.
