Maintaining compliance with NSW regulations is crucial for landlords and property managers to ensure safety and avoid legal repercussions. This includes regulations related to swimming pools, smoke alarms, blind safety, and water efficiency. Here's a summary of the key compliance requirements:
Swimming Pool Compliance
Registration and Certification:
- Pools must be registered on the NSW Swimming Pool Register.
- A certificate of compliance or occupation certificate is required for renting or selling properties with pools.
Fencing and Safety Barriers:
- Pools must be surrounded by a child-resistant safety barrier that complies with Australian Standards.
- Gates must remain closed, and portable/inflatable pools must also have safety barriers.
CPR Signage:
- A CPR sign must be displayed near the pool and be readable from 3 metres.
- New pools require updated CPR signage from 1 September 2019.
Inspection and Compliance:
- Local councils or registered inspectors can issue compliance certificates.
- Pool owners should arrange inspections early to ensure timely certification.
Smoke Alarm Compliance
Installation and Maintenance:
- Landlords must install at least one working smoke alarm on every level of the property.
- Landlords can access the property to install smoke alarms with two days' notice.
- Tenants are responsible for replacing batteries in battery-operated smoke alarms during the tenancy. Hard-wired alarm back-up batteries are replaced by the landlord.
Compliance and Reporting:
- The condition report in the tenancy agreement must reference smoke alarms.
- Landlords renting out holiday accommodation must ensure smoke alarms are installed and maintained.
Blind Safety Compliance
Installation Requirements:
- Blinds and curtains with cords must be installed to prevent loops longer than 220 mm at less than 1,600 mm above the floor.
- Cleats securing cords must be installed at least 1,600 mm above the floor.
Labelling:
- Warning labels on blinds/curtains must not be removed.
- Installers must attach a label with their contact details.
Safety Measures:
- Ensure cords are not accessible to children to prevent strangulation risks.
- Follow national mandatory standards for installation and labelling.
Water Efficiency Compliance
Water Efficiency Measures:
- No leaking taps or toilets at the start of the tenancy and when installing/upgrading water efficiency measures.
- Shower heads and internal cold water taps must have a maximum flow rate of 9 litres per minute.
- Dual flush toilets with a minimum 3-star WELS rating required from 23 March 2025.
Property Standards:
These measures do not apply to outdoor taps, bathtub taps, laundry taps, or taps for washing machines and dishwashers.
By adhering to these regulations, landlords and property managers in NSW can ensure their properties are safe and compliant, providing peace of mind for tenants and protecting the wellbeing of all residents. Regularly reviewing and updating compliance measures is essential to maintaining high standards and preventing potential hazards.
Engaging with our property management services can provide you with the expert guidance needed to navigate the complexities of property investment. Contact us today to learn how we can help you optimise your investment strategy and achieve your financial goals
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