We get it — having tradespeople come into your home isn’t always ideal. If you don’t want us there, we don’t particularly want to be there either. Unfortunately, electrical safety inspections in rental properties are mandatory under Victorian law, and we’re required to complete these checks to ensure that the property is electrically safe.
That said, we promise to be respectful, efficient, and as non-intrusive as possible. We truly appreciate your patience and understanding while we get the job done safely and professionally.
Under the Victorian Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021, every rental property in Victoria must undergo regular electrical safety checks at least once every two years. These checks must be carried out by a licensed electrician and involve testing your switchboard, safety switches, power outlets, and light fittings to make sure everything is safe and compliant.
TEIGE Electrical conducts these inspections across Warrnambool, Hamilton, Portland, Port Fairy, Camperdown, and the wider South-West Victoria region. We know it can feel like an intrusion, but the purpose is simple — keeping you, your family, and your home safe from potential electrical hazards.
What We Expect From You
Please Keep Kids Clear of the Work Area
It’s ok — we’ve got kids too, and we completely understand the curiosity! But some of the tools we use can be dangerous in the wrong hands. Throughout the inspection, we may need to set down our toolbag or move between rooms to test outlets, smoke alarms, and switchboards.
For everyone’s safety, we ask that children stay clear of our workspace while testing is underway. We’ll be in and out quickly, and we’re always happy to explain what we’re doing (from a safe distance).
Please Secure Your Pets
We love animals — but even the friendliest pets can be unpredictable around new people, new smells, and strange noises (like smoke alarms).
If you could keep your pets safely secured during our visit, it would help us complete our checks smoothly and safely. Even non-aggressive pets can scratch or trip us accidentally. We’ve had a few “don’t worry, they’re harmless” moments that ended in bandaids.
A few minutes of separation means a safer visit for everyone — including your furry friends.
Expect a Short Power Interruption
As part of the mandatory electrical testing, we’ll need to briefly switch off your power to verify safety devices and circuits. We know that can be inconvenient, especially if you’re working from home or using internet-connected devices.
We’ll always let you know before it happens, so you’ve got time to save work or pause your tasks. The power is usually off for only a few minutes, and we’ll have it back on as soon as possible.
Please Avoid Using Illicit Substances During Our Visit
It shouldn’t have to be said — but here we are. Over the past few months, we’ve encountered this situation more often than you might expect.
We’re there to do a job that involves focus, safety, and compliance — not to deal with the added risk of illegal substances in the home. Please respect our staff and ensure your home is a safe and professional environment during our visit.
What You Can Expect From Us
We’ll Be As Non-Invasive As Possible
Some testing is non-negotiable under AS/NZS 3019 and Victorian rental safety laws. If we need physical access to outlets, smoke alarms, or the switchboard, we’ll always engage with you before moving any personal items. We’ll treat your home and belongings with respect.
We’ll Be Polite, Courteous, and On Time
We understand that shift work, families, and daily routines don’t always line up neatly with scheduled inspections. If someone’s asleep or working, let us know — we’ll do our best to minimise disruption. That said, we do need to test your smoke alarms (and yes, they’re loud — that’s the point!). We’ll coordinate with you to make this as quick and convenient as possible.
These inspections are about safety — yours, your family’s, and your property’s. Our goal is to get in, do what’s required, and get out with as little disruption as possible.
We truly appreciate your cooperation. A little preparation on your part makes a big difference for our team, and it helps us complete your inspection safely, efficiently, and with a smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be home for the inspection?
It depends on your property manager’s arrangements. In most cases, we’re given access through the agent or landlord, and you’ll be notified beforehand. If you’re home, that’s fine — we’ll introduce ourselves, explain what we’re doing, and get straight to work. If you can’t be there, please make sure pets are secured and access areas (like the switchboard) aren’t blocked.
How long will the inspection take?
A standard electrical safety check usually takes around 90 minutes to 2 hours depending on the size of the property and how easy it is to access outlets, light fittings, and the switchboard. Larger homes, dual-occupancies, or properties with complex switchboards may even take a bit longer.
Will my power be off the whole time?
No — only for a few short periods during testing. We’ll always let you know before we interrupt the power, and we’ll restore it as quickly as possible.
What exactly are you checking?
We inspect and test key electrical components throughout the property to ensure they meet current safety standards. This includes:
- Switchboard condition and labelling
- Operation of safety switches (RCDs)
- Integrity of wiring and earthing
- Condition and polarity of power points and light fittings
- Operation and placement of smoke alarms
You’ll receive a report (and your agent or landlord will too) confirming that the property meets compliance requirements, or outlining any issues that need to be rectified.
Can I reschedule if the time doesn’t suit?
Of course. We understand things come up. Just contact your property manager as soon as possible so we can coordinate a new time that works for everyone. We operate across South-West Victoria and do our best to accommodate local schedules.
