this post was submitted on 09 Mar 2024
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Power outlet next to the sink has shorted and keeps popping and smoking when the mains is turned on. The real estate agent's emergency electrical line won't fix it till Thursday and all other electricians called won't fix it despite us willing to pay it because we don't own the property. There's no fire extinguisher or ground fault protection so I really can't risk playing with the outlet.
I actually love how I can't get an electrician because I am a renter this is ridiculous. I'm all out of options besides either, calling more electricians until one agrees to do it, or start a fire because I want the fan on ;-;
Anyone have an suggestions?
Edit: After much electrician shopping, someone was found to do it. If something goes wrong we've been assured that we'll have to answer for it
This would, imo, classify as an urgent repair. tenantsvic.org.au says:
IDK if I would classify Thursday as "urgently", but VCAT won't look at anything you send them until Tuesday or Wednesday.
I'm sorry, it sucks to be a renter, I know.
Edit: https://tenantsvic.org.au/advice/common-problems/repairs/
The link to the repairs page, worth a read
I think we got an electrician willing to come, but it'll be out if pocket.
Honestly, I'm scared to go to VCAT as this is my first rental and I don't want to be blacklisted.
You wonβt get blacklisted for an urgent repair request. Itβs also a safety issue.
Also, thanks for linking the repairs page. It's been really helpful to read.
Can you not isolate power around the sink only ?
Probably not. It depends how many circuits the place has. In a unit all the points are probably on the same one. You could turn all the outlets off and still have lights, but not a subset of outlets.
No, we have two switches. One says main and does something (not sure), and the other is unlabelled and is the main switch
Edit: picture
That fuse box is no longer legal and requires replacement. The lack of earth is also a problem that they MUST fix. VCAT asap if they push back.
Oh wait, it is?! Please send me a link to the relevant law, I'm curious now ;)
Probably not the best link, but https://electricalconnection.com.au/new-regulations-rollout-for-victorian-residential-tenancies/
I had one of those recently and I had to get it changed out due to regulations to an updated one with safety breakers on it.
The people installing the new hot water system nearly didnβt want to install it with the old power board in.