Mandatory Gas and Electrical Safety Checks: What Victorian Residential Rental Providers (Landlords) and Renters Need to Know

Under the Residential Tenancies Legislation, rental providers are required to undertake mandatory safety checks for gas and electrical appliances across all rental properties, regardless of when the tenancy agreement began.

Whether you are a rental provider staying compliant or a renter looking to understand your rights, here is a clear guide to Victoria’s mandatory safety check rules.

What are the Mandatory Safety Check Requirements?

1. Gas Safety Checks (Every 2 Years)

• Frequency: Must be conducted at least once every two (2) years by a licensed or registered gasfitter.
• Scope: The check must cover all gas appliances, fixtures, fittings, and connected flues supplied by the rental provider (e.g., gas heaters, gas hot water units, and gas cooktops).
• Pre-Draughtproofing Check: If any draughtproofing or insulation works are being carried out at the property, a mandatory gas safety check must be performed beforehand to ensure gas appliances operate safely without carbon monoxide buildup.

2. Electrical Safety Checks (Every 2 Years)

• Frequency: Must be conducted at least once every two (2) years by a licensed electrician.
• Scope: The check includes testing all electrical switchboards, wiring, power points, light fittings, and landlord-supplied electrical appliances.

3. Electrical safety check before insulation installation

From the 1st March insulation is required in any ceiling space that has none. Before installing the insulation a licensed electrician must complete a safety check within the 30 days before installation.This step ensures there are no hazardous wiring issues, unsafe light fittings (such as non-IC-rated recessed downlights), or electrical risks trapped or covered by the new insulation.

4. Record Keeping & Compliance Obligations

Rental providers must keep detailed records of all safety checks—including the electrician or gasfitter's name, license number, check date, and test results—for at least 7 years.

• For Current Renters: Renters (Tenants) can request a copy of the most recent safety check records at any time, which must be provided within 7 days of a written request.
• For New Renters: Before entering a new tenancy agreement, rental providers must confirm when the last gas and electrical checks were performed.
  
  

Key Takeaways for Property Owners

1. No Exemptions: These rules apply to all residential tenancies in Victoria, including long-standing agreements.
2. Proactive Maintenance Prevents Risk: Regular safety checks protect Renters from carbon monoxide hazards and electrical fires while protecting property owners from serious liability.
3. Leave it to the Professionals: Checks must be conducted by qualified, licensed tradespeople.

Need help staying compliant?

Our Property Management team manages recurring safety compliance schedules, qualified trade bookings, and record retention on behalf of our property owners. Contact your local Barry Plant office today to learn more.

For an overview of upcoming changes, visit our Victorian Rental Law Reforms page.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is general in nature and intended for educational purposes regarding residential property management in the State of Victoria under the Residential Tenancies Act and associated 2026 legislative updates. It does not constitute formal legal or financial advice. Rental providers should consult Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) or seek independent legal counsel regarding their specific circumstances.