Browse Forums Building Standards; Getting It Right! 1 Jul 01, 2009 12:36 pm We are renting in NSW and need our back steps repaired due to rotting timber. The agent has approved and the repairer intends to just replace the rotting parts. However, we feel the stairs are unsafe, too steep. The back deck is 830mm high and there are 3 steps down, with a rise ranging from 240mm to 210mm. each step is 190mm wide (going is roughly 220mm) I don't know the regulations but they just look wrong. I have 2 little kids and a pregnant wife so safety is an issue If they are non-regulation are we within our rights to ask for them to be rebuilt properly? The other conundrum is that I don't want to be one of those difficult tenants. They haven't raised our rent for 3 years. Any advice or comments would be great Thanks Re: Steps - rental property 2Jul 01, 2009 1:34 pm If the riser is open (you can see through the stairs when facing them) then the steps must not be more than 125mm apart. (The Building Code of Australia states that a sphere that is 125mm in Diameter must not be able to pass through) The height being more than 570mm means you should also have a landing. I would suggest that there should be a landing of at least 750mm in length then at least 6 steps (assuming each step is 15mm at least in thickness). Each step needs to be no more than 125mm apart (above/below). You should speak to a building surveyor or building contractor in your area as; from what you describe; your stairs are not constructed safely. I would hope that once you advise your property manager of the fact; they would want to have it rectified. "I never learned a thing until I finished school" - Unknown "You can get anything accomplished, If you don't mind who gets the credit" - Ned Hay Re: Steps - rental property 4Dec 29, 2009 10:27 pm hi I know this is 6 motnhs old but could i ask how this all went with Agent and LL? with regards to back steps. There is a very strong case for OH & S for good reason. I Have a handyman service dealing with a couple of realestate agents and I do have trouble with some tighta*se landlords who refuse to spend sensible money on safety related repairs. cheers peter DIY, Home Maintenance & Repair Follow up question - any ideas on how to set up a portable air conditioner through this kind of window? 1 6236 Following these simple steps will help you mitigate unwanted costs, have your expectations met and give… 0 4534 |