If you own a rental property in Victoria, the electrics aren't something you can leave until a tenant complains. Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) requires a regular check, and the rules about paperwork and disclosure are just as specific. This is a plain-English summary of what CAV and Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) say, as at 18 October 2026.
The every-2-years rule
CAV says rental providers must have the electrical installations, fixtures and fittings in their rental property checked by a registered electrician every 2 years. ESV puts it the same way: these checks must be done every 2 years, and only a registered electrician or gasfitter can do them.
CAV adds some detail about how the check is done:
- The check is carried out in accordance with section 4 of AS/NZS 3019.
- The report is prepared in accordance with section 2 of AS/NZS 3019.
- The electrician must be a Registered Electrical Contractor (REC) with Energy Safe Victoria.
The full wording is on CAV's page for rental providers and gas and electrical safety. ESV's tenants and renting page covers the same rule from the safety side.
Paperwork to keep and hand over
The check only helps you if you can show it happened. According to CAV:
- Before a rental agreement is signed, you must tell the renter the date of the last electrical safety check, and any outstanding recommendations from it.
- You must keep a record of the most recent check.
- If a renter asks in writing, you must give them a copy within 7 days.
So the useful things to give your property manager are the report itself, the date of the check, and a note of anything the electrician recommended that hasn't been done yet.
Safety switches (RCDs)
CAV also says that from 29 March 2023, all power outlets and lighting circuits must be connected to a switchboard-type circuit breaker complying with AS/NZS 3000, and a switchboard-type residual current device (RCD) complying with AS/NZS 3190, 61008.1 or 61009.1. ESV's version is shorter: all switchboards must have RCDs fitted. If your switchboard is older, ask your electrician about this at your next check. Our post on switchboard warning signs lists what to look for between checks.
Smoke alarms are separate
This post is about the electrical installation. Smoke alarms are a separate obligation, covered in smoke alarm requirements in Victoria.
Arranging the check
Use a registered electrical contractor, ask to see the licence, and ask for the report in the form CAV describes. For the service itself, see our electrical safety inspections page, or call 1300 797 267.
Frequently asked questions
How often does a rental property need an electrical safety check in Victoria?
Every 2 years, according to both Consumer Affairs Victoria and Energy Safe Victoria. The check must be done by a registered electrician.
Do I have to tell a new renter about the last check?
Yes. CAV says that before a rental agreement is signed you must tell the renter the date of the last electrical safety check, plus any outstanding recommendations.
Can a renter ask to see the report?
If they ask in writing, CAV says you must give them a copy of the most recent check within 7 days. You're also required to keep a record of that check.