Electrical safety is an essential aspect of any building, and it’s crucial to ensure that the electrical systems within your property are up to date and meet all necessary safety standards. One critical element of electrical safety is the switchboard, which is the central point for distributing electricity throughout a building. As of 29 March 2023, new minimum standards will come into effect that will mandate switchboard upgrades in many properties across Australia. In this blog, we’ll explore what these new standards entail, what may happen if a property does not comply and the tenant’s rights.
The New Minimum Standards as of 29 March 2023
The new minimum standards that will come into effect on 29 March 2023 mandate that switchboards in many properties must be upgraded to include additional modern features, such as circuit breakers, safety switches, surge protection devices and other safety measures to reduce the risk of electrical faults and fires.
The new requirements apply to any new switchboard installation or upgrade, whether it’s in a new building or an existing one. This means that any property that undergoes electrical work on or after 29 March 2023 will need to comply with the new standards.
What May Happen if Your Property Does Not Comply
If a property does not comply with the new switchboard standards, the consequences can be severe. The most significant risk is that the property owner may face an RTA penalty and may also be required to carry out the necessary upgrades to bring the switchboard up to standard. This can be a costly and time-consuming process, especially if the switchboard is in a large or complex property.
There’s also a risk to the safety of the occupants of the property. Switchboards that do not meet the new standards may be more prone to electrical faults and fires, which can put the occupants’ lives at risk. In the event of an incident, the property owner may be liable for damages or injuries sustained by the occupants.
The Tenant’s Rights
Tenants have certain rights regarding electrical safety in rental properties. Landlords are required by law to provide safe and functional electrical systems, including switchboards, in their rental properties. If a tenant has concerns about the safety of the electrical system, including the switchboard, they should contact their landlord or property manager immediately.
If the tenant’s concerns are not addressed, they may be able to take legal action to require the landlord to carry out the necessary upgrades. Tenants should also be aware that they have the right to request a copy of the electrical safety certificate, which provides details about the electrical systems in the property.
Before moving in, renters have the option to terminate their lease without any notice or penalty. If the renter is already in a lease, they can request an urgent repair for a switchboard upgrade. If the rental agency fails to respond to the request, the renter may incur costs of up to $2,500. It’s important to note that if the property does not meet the minimum standards, rental providers may face financial penalties between $11,000 and $55,000 imposed by the RTA.
Other Considerations
In addition to complying with the new switchboard standards, property owners should also consider other aspects of electrical safety. This may include regular electrical safety checks and maintenance, ensuring that all electrical appliances and devices are in good working order and providing clear instructions for using electrical equipment safely.
The new switchboard standards are just one aspect of electrical safety, and there may be additional requirements or considerations that are specific to your property. If you’re unsure about whether your property complies with the necessary electrical safety standards, it’s recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified electrician or electrical safety inspector.
Electrical safety is a critical aspect of any building, and it’s essential to ensure that your property meets the necessary safety standards. If you need to upgrade your switchboard to comply with the new minimum standards and ensure the safety of your property and its occupants, contact O'Brien Electrical North Geelong today. Our team of qualified electricians has the expertise and experience to provide reliable and effective switchboard upgrades that meet the necessary safety requirements. Don’t risk an RTA penalty or the safety of your property—contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started on your switchboard upgrade.
