I had a butane gas blow torch (the small hand held kind) explode in my face last week, resulting in the activation of the sprinkler
I have now been informed by the insurance assessor that I need to vacate the apartment for 6-7 weeks in order to do repairs
Am I still liable for rent during this time?
Posted Aug 10, 2023, 2:56 AM UTC
Yes.
Read this: https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/housing/renting/repairs-alterations-safety-and-pets/repairs/repairs-in-rental-properties
I assume the gas torch was yours and you were operating it?
So you are possibly facing a bill for the repairs too.
If the tenant (or their guest) was not responsible for the fire/explosion (if it was a tradie that the property manager organised for example), then you will be eligible for help.
The particular item I was using has published reviews (and replied to by Bunnings, so they we’re definitely aware of the issue) going back months, that stated this particular blow torch was defective and has blown up/ exploded before. They never recalled the product
I would presume that Bunnings will be liable (and have admitted as much in emails) for all costs incurred
Thank you for the link
Ah nice. So hopefully you can just get Bunnings to deal direct with the landlords insurance and side step all this. Fingers crossed!
Can you post the link of the butane torch in question? Just in case I own one and so I don't accidentally purchase one of those makeshift hand grenades.
If you have this particular one, don’t dispose of it, return it to Bunnings and tell them why
Welcome to r/AusLegal. Please read our rules before commenting. Please remember:
Per rule 4, this subreddit is not a replacement for real legal advice. You should independently seek legal advice from a real, qualified practitioner. This sub cannot recommend specific lawyers.
A non-exhaustive list of free legal services around Australia can be found here.
Links to the each state and territory's respective Law Society are on the sidebar: you can use these links to find a lawyer in your area.
I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.