Rental reforms announced after local advocacy
Time for change: The Scarff family, pictured with the Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison (right), have advocated for rental reform since Simon Scarff died in 2022 after a fire in his rented apartment. Photo: SUPPLIED
THE State Government has announced rental reforms which will require rental providers to conduct smoke alarm checks every twelve months, and gas and electrical safety checks every two years no matter when a lease began.
Minister for Consumer Affairs Gabrielle Williams made the announcement in Ballarat last Tuesday while visiting the Scarff family.
In 2022, 52-year-old Simon Scarff lost his life when trying to escape a fire in his rented apartment.
The coroner’s report couldn’t confirm the presence of a smoke alarm in the property and Simon’s family have advocated for smoke alarm checks for all Victorian rentals.
“I thank the Scarff family for their longstanding advocacy following the tragic loss of Simon – their efforts will make renting safer for all Victorians and save lives,” said Ms Williams.
“These new requirements will ensure that all rental properties in Victoria have working smoke alarms that are checked regularly – no matter how long someone has been living there.”
The coroner recommended the 2021 reforms for smoke alarm safety checks be extended to all rental properties regardless of when the residents first signed their lease.
The residential rental provider or the provider’s agent must immediately arrange for urgent repairs on faulty smoke alarms.
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