As a landlord in Western Australia, providing a safe and secure home for your tenants is not just good practice—it’s the law. Recent updates to residential tenancy legislation have introduced clearly defined minimum security standards for rental properties, giving both landlords and tenants a clear benchmark to follow.
Here’s a quick summary of what you need to know to ensure your property meets current legal requirements.
🔒 Minimum Levels of Security
Landlords must now ensure rental properties meet the following standards for locks and lighting:
- Main Entry Door: Must have either a deadlock or a key-lockable security screen door compliant with Australian Standard AS 5039-2008.
- Other External Doors: Must have either a deadlock, patio bolt, or key-lockable security screen (again meeting AS 5039-2008). This excludes balcony doors only accessible from inside.
- Accessible Windows: Must be fitted with a lock that prevents them from being opened from the outside. This lock does not have to be key-operated.
- Exterior Lighting: A functional light must be installed at the main entry and must be operable from inside the property—unless strata or community title schemes already provide adequate lighting.
There are some exceptions, such as heritage-listed properties or those on land zoned for agricultural use.
🔌 Electrical Safety – RCDs
You are legally required to install at least two Residual Current Devices (RCDs) in every rental property to protect all power and lighting circuits. Properties within strata schemes must have at least one RCD covering common areas. Failing to comply can result in significant penalties—up to $15,000 for individuals and $100,000 for corporations.
🔥 Smoke Alarms
All rental properties must have compliant mains-powered smoke alarms (or approved battery-powered ones where hard-wiring isn’t possible). These must be under 10 years old, regardless of battery type, and fully functional before a tenancy begins.
🏊♀️ Pools and Spas
If your property has a pool or spa deeper than 300mm, it must have a compliant safety barrier. As the landlord, you’re responsible for ensuring the barrier meets regulations and is in good working order. While tenants must maintain cleanliness and keep the area safe, you must repair any faulty barriers promptly. Portable pools capable of holding more than 300mm of water also fall under these rules. Tenants must obtain written permission before setting one up—and provide appropriate safety fencing.
🏠 Window Coverings
Due to serious safety risks, corded internal window coverings must meet strict safety standards. Any cords that hang lower than 1.6m from the floor must be secured using an appropriate device. Landlords must check existing cords—even if installed before these rules came into effect.
🛠️ Affixing Furniture
Tenants may now request to anchor furniture for the safety of children or people with disabilities. You may only refuse this in limited circumstances (e.g., if the property is heritage-listed or the anchoring would damage asbestos). Tenants must use Form 24 to request permission and are responsible for repairing any damage when vacating.
⚡ Gas and Electrical Emergencies
If there’s an immediate safety issue—such as a gas leak or electrical shock hazard—tenants should contact emergency services (ATCO Gas, Western Power, or Horizon Power) first before notifying you or the agent.
These requirements help protect your investment and the well-being of your tenants. Providing a secure, well-maintained home not only ensures compliance but also improves tenant retention and property value. If you’re unsure whether your property meets current standards, reach out to your property manager or request an inspection. At Abel Property, we’re here to help you navigate your obligations with confidence.
By Jessica Brewer – Head of Property Management, Abel Property