Deck and Balcony Safety In Your Rental Property
Landlords/Property Managers have a responsibility to make sure a rental property is clean, safe, in good repair, fit to live in and abide by health and safety laws. Areas of a rental property that may not get enough maintenance are the deck and balcony.
Rotting timber, fungus growth, corroding screws, warped bracing, cracked posts and split planks are just some of the dangers found by building inspectors.
Decks, balconies, balustrades, stairs and handrails all require regular and effective maintenance to help ensure their long-term safety. Before calling a professional to inspect and fix a deck or balcony, it pays to give your deck a regular visual inspection. Fixings, bracings, posts, bearers and joists are the key areas that needed to be checked.
The Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) recommends a QBCC-licensed contractor to carry out any renovation or repair work on your deck or balcony.
The QBCC also recommends Landlords/Property Managers conduct a visual inspection every 12 months, but also take into consideration the type of finish, climate and the degree of exposure to the weather.
Tenants are also obligated to keep the property clean, damage-free and notify the Landlord/Property Manager of any repairs required in a timely manner.
For your free investment property health check, please contact 07 3123 7373 or lauren@rentalresults.com.au
