The 2023-24 bushfire season has officially begun, and with the NSW Rural Fire Service firefighters gearing up for what’s expected to be a challenging season, landlords in southwest Sydney need to be prepared.
Due to the extended wet weather across NSW, only about 25% of the planned hazard reduction work has been completed by July this year, increasing the potential threat. The NSW Government is advising every household to prepare, and landlords have a unique set of responsibilities to consider to protect the safety of their tenants and properties.
The Reality of Ember Attacks
While you might think your property isn’t directly in the line of a bushfire, or even situated neighbouring bushland, it can still be vulnerable to ember attacks. These embers, driven by winds, can travel significant distances, easily igniting debris found on roofs, in gutters, and around properties. It’s not just about immediate proximity to a fire but understanding how embers behave.
Your Responsibilities as a Landlord
In Southwest Sydney, while there aren’t explicit laws mandating every preventative measure landlords should take regarding bushfire season, general tenancy laws require properties to be in a state of good repair and not subject to any health or safety risks. Given the risks associated with bushfire season, it would be reasonable to expect landlords to take preventive measures.
Here’s a checklist of recommendations every landlord should consider:
- Assess the risk: Use tools from the NSW Rural Fire Service to gauge the bushfire risk around your property.
- Insurance: Review your insurance policy to make sure it covers bushfire damage.
- Property maintenance:
- Trim overhanging trees and shrubs, especially those close to the building or power lines.
- Clean Gutters: Embers often find their way into gutters filled with leaves and debris, making it a potential ignition point. Regular cleaning, especially during the fire season, is crucial.
- Consider installing metal flyscreens on all windows and doors to prevent embers from entering the property.
- Smoke Alarms: Ensure all smoke alarms are in working order, compliant with the regulations, and batteries are replaced regularly.
As a landlord, you can also encourage your tenants to:
- Regularly mow your lawns and ensure that grass cuttings and dead vegetation are removed to reduce potential fuel for fires.
- Combustible items like door mats, wood piles, and mulch can easily catch fire. Ensure they are not stored near the main property.
- Ensure there are sturdy hoses that can reach all around the property. It’s also a good idea to have buckets and other water sources readily available.
- Download the Hazards Near Me NSW app for real-time updates and regularly check the RFS website for current fire dangers and advice.
- Formulate a clear fire plan. This should detail actions to be taken during different stages of a fire threat, including whether to stay or evacuate.
The bushfire season is undeniably a period of heightened risk, but with preparation, vigilance, and clear communication, landlords can make sure both their property and tenants are as safe as possible during the bushfire season. Remember, safety isn’t just a responsibility; it’s an investment in ensuring your property remains protected and your tenants safe.
Discover more best practices and expert advice for your rental property by speaking with our friendly team at Prudential Real Estate.
Information referred to in this article was obtained from publicly accessible sources from NSW Fire + Rescue, NSW Government and YourHome. The information provided in this blog post is for general guidance only and should not be taken as personal advice. We do not accept any liability for any errors or omissions.
Prudential Real Estate Campbelltown | (02) 4628 0033 | [email protected]
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