In 2013, the Western Australian government updated the Residential Tenancies Act 1987 and the Residential Tenancies Regulations 1989 in regards to what landlords must do to ensure the properties they are renting out are reasonably secure.
While the updated requirements, which included the fitting of certain locks and devices to doors and windows and security lighting, came into force on 1 July 2013, landlords were given a two year grace period in which to carry out the necessary work.
That period expired last week.
Under the requirements, the main entry door must have a deadlock or a key lockable security screen door that complies with Australian Standard (AS) 5039-2008.
If there is a key lockable security screen compliant with Australian standards already fitted to the front entry door, there is no requirement to retrofit a deadlock. Likewise, if there is a deadlock fitted, you are not required to fit a security screen door.
All other external doors must have either a deadbolt, patio bolt lock or a key lockable security screen door that complies with AS 5039-2008.
Patio bolts do not need to be key lockable.
All windows must be be fitted with a lock that prevents the window from being opened from outside the premises.
This does not mean having to install keyed window locks, but that window latches, closers or locks are fitted and are in working order to reduce the risk of a window being forced open from the outside.
If the window is fitted with a security screen compliant with AS 5039-2008, there is no requirement to retrofit a window lock.
An electrical light at, or near, the main entry that is capable of illuminating the main entry to the premises and is operable from the inside is also now compulsory.
This doesn’t apply if the property is a flat or apartment and the lighting is the responsibility of the strata body.
More information can be found at www.commerce.gov.au.
