NSW FAIR TRADING AND COMPLIANCE

SMOKE ALARM COMPLIANCE

If you are managing smoke alarms yourself, please be aware that there are strict laws with regards to smoke alarm placements, the number of alarms required, location of alarms, check alarms and batteries are still in date, and that there is a decibel reading greater than 85 to wake sleeping residents.

If you do manage your own alarms you also have to be available to attend in an emergency, be prepared for your tenants to have your contact details, and be located close enough to attend alarms the same day they are reported as needing attention. This is considered an emergency repair and the tenant will be instructed by NSW Fair Trading to engage an electrician in the event they are waiting for attendance. This call out would cost more than the whole annual smoke alarm service fee.

CHARGING TENANTS FOR WATER USAGE

Under the legislation, tenants can only be charged for water usage if there is a separate water meter at the property (unfortunately, sub-meter readings are no longer permitted), and a water efficiency certificate has been provided by a licensed plumber prior to the commencement of each new tenancy. Our plumbers can attend to a water efficiency certification for approximately $77.00.