Thanks for the comment UT. Yes, it is important for the tenant to also shoulder some of the responsibility. To demonstrate due diligence, the three parties landlord, tenant and property manager (if PM is not also the landlord) should all be a part of ensuring safety is at the highest standard.
Anecdotally, I came across a terribly sad case in my readings of a newborn that was killed in Rockhampton, QLD back in 2010 when her father inadvertently stepped onto a termite damaged section of veranda on the second floor of their rented home and she slipped from his arms as he fell. The family had complained before of termite issues, and tradies had been called out to inspect. Inspections determined that there was extensive termite damage to the veranda which required repair, but the reports provided by the tradies were not read by the property manager, but instead forwarded to the Landlord, (who worked FIFO and did not read the reports) .......ultimately the veranda was not fixed, resulting in the tragedy.
I do not believe that any civil court action ensued (for what reason, I do not know) however there was a coronial inquest held.
This case, and that of the two boys in VIC that died as a result of faulty gas heater, really brings home the importance of having safety as a top priority.....
(links below for anyone interested.)
http://www.macamiet.com.au/2012/12/...onsibilities-the-isabella-diefenbach-inquest/
http://www.courts.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/163027/cif-diefenbach-iw-20120919.pdf
