For many years, REINSW has actively lobbied Government in regards to consumer safety in rental properties.
Currently, property managers must make determinations regarding the safety of a property on issues including, but not limited to:
- Smoke alarms
- Glass
- Asbestos
- Window safety locks
- Decks and balconies
- Electrical installations
- Swimming pools
- Lead paint
Although experienced in tenancy and legislative matters, property managers are not qualified to comment on these issues.
State Coroner’s Court echoes REINSW recommendations on smoke alarms
Following the inquest into the death of Miata Jibba, Magistrate Harriet Grahame of the NSW State Coroner’s Court made recommendations in relation to smoke alarms and public safety.
Magistrate Grahame found that if adequate smoke alarms were fitted in the property, Miata’s death could likely have been prevented.
Of high importance was her recommendation for the introduction of a Certificate of Compliance regime for all residential dwellings (like that implemented for swimming pools).
She stated the Certificate of Compliance should be part of the residential tenancy agreement and certified by appropriately qualified individuals who can confirm the smoke alarm:
- Has been properly installed and located
- Has been tested and cleaned
- Works effectively
The Certificate of Compliance should also contain a diagram of the location of each smoke alarm in the property.
This recommendation echoes those made by REINSW and substantiates the need for smoke alarm safety reform.
“We have suggested a safer and more systematic approach should be taken,” says Tim McKibbin, REINSW CEO. “A Certificate of Compliance regime is a far more effective solution.
“The reality is property managers are not experts on smoke alarms and do not have the technical expertise to confirm they are compliant and working.”