If you rent out a property in Victoria, electrical safety is part of your legal obligations. The rules have tightened over the past year, and another change takes effect on 13 October 2026. Here’s a plain-English summary for landlords and property managers in Point Cook, Werribee, Hoppers Crossing and across Melbourne’s west.

Checked against Consumer Affairs Victoria and Energy Safe Victoria guidance on 7 October 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. Check consumer.vic.gov.au for the latest.

The two-yearly electrical safety check

Rental providers must make sure a licensed electrician checks all electrical switchboards, wiring and fittings in the property at least every two years.

Until now, this applied to rental agreements that started on or after 29 March 2021. From 13 October 2026, it applies to all rental agreements, whether they began before, on or after that date. If you have a long-standing tenant on an older lease, the requirement now covers that property too.

What the check covers

The electrician inspects and tests the electrical installation in line with section 4 of AS/NZS 3019, the Australian Standard for periodic assessment of electrical installations. In practice, a check covers:

the switchboard, circuit breakers and safety switches
wiring and visible cabling
power points, switches and light fittings
fixed electrical appliances such as ovens and cooktops
signs of damage, overheating or unsafe DIY work

The aim is to confirm the installation is in a safe condition for continued use.

Smoke alarm checks every 12 months

Since 25 November 2025, rental providers must also arrange a smoke alarm safety check at least once every 12 months, for every rental agreement. Alarms must be correctly installed, in working condition and tested according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

It makes sense to book the annual smoke alarm check and the two-yearly electrical check together. Read more in our smoke alarm requirements guide.

The electrical safety minimum standard

Victorian rentals must meet minimum standards, including electrical safety. Since 29 March 2023, rental properties need a modern switchboard with circuit breakers and safety switches.

If the property already has a circuit breaker switchboard, safety switches can be added to the power and lighting circuits.
If it still has an old fuse board without circuit breakers, the whole switchboard needs replacing.

Since 25 November 2025, properties must meet minimum standards when they’re advertised, not just by the time a renter moves in. If you’re about to list a property with an old fuse board, deal with it first. See switchboard upgrades.

What happens if the check finds a problem

Not every issue means a big bill. Common findings include a damaged power point, a light fitting that’s overheating, an outdoor outlet with water damage, or a safety switch that doesn’t trip when tested.

Anything dangerous should be made safe straight away. Under Victorian rules, a serious electrical fault or a faulty smoke alarm is an urgent repair. Other items can be quoted and scheduled.

Keeping records

Keep a copy of every check report and any Certificates of Electrical Safety for repairs. Good records make it easy to show that checks were done on time, and they help future electricians understand the property.

Tips for property managers

Set reminders for every property: smoke alarms every 12 months, electrical every two years.
Book both checks together where the dates line up.
Give renters notice of entry in line with the rules.
Ask for a written report you can file and forward to the owner.
Use a licensed electrician who works for a Registered Electrical Contractor.

Common questions from landlords

Do I need a check if the property is brand new?

The two-yearly requirement applies to rental agreements, so a new property still needs checks once it’s rented. A new home is less likely to have issues, but the check still needs to happen and be recorded.

Can my handyman do the check?

No. The electrical safety check must be done by a licensed electrician.

What if my tenant won’t give access?

Rental providers can enter for safety checks with proper notice under Victorian rules. Your property manager can help arrange this. We work around renters wherever we can.

How long does a check take?

A typical house takes an hour or two, depending on its size and what we find. Larger homes, or homes with granny flats and sheds, take longer.

How we help

We do rental electrical safety checks and smoke alarm checks across Wyndham and Hobsons Bay. We arrange access with the renter, test everything, and send you a clear written report. If we find anything unsafe, we make it safe on the day and quote any other repairs.

Sources

Need a rental safety check booked?

We’re a family-owned, licensed electrical business based in Point Cook, with more than 25 years of experience. We work across Williams Landing, Werribee, Hoppers Crossing, Tarneit, Truganina and the rest of Melbourne’s west, and we take emergency calls 24/7. Find out more about our rental safety checks service.

Call us on 0405 418 132, or send a few details and a photo of the job. Every job is quoted before we start.

Call 0405 418 132 Book Your Rental Safety Check