QLD Power surge protection unit

My PM said it’s quite common with power surge during summer storm season in QLD and suggest me to install a power surge protection unit for my IP in Brisbane. This is to protect any power surge that can damage electrical appliances. I don’t actually remember if I have this for my PPOR! Sounds reasonable to me to install it though.

Do you normally have this for your IP, especially in Brisbane?

It costs around $400.

Thanks.

 

Has your PM provided any evidence of there being a possible power surge? Perhaps a report by an electrician would help to confirm if there is any power surge to begin with.

if it is simply from perspective of good to have, ask your PM if they are receiving any kickbacks from the surge protection installer?

 

The surge is only when there is a big storm / lightning during summer time. No issue with normal weather / power line. Based on your reply, seems not quite needed / common for you guys to install it then?

 

I haven’t installed it, nor have been advised to do so. If not urgent then you can use that $400 towards paying your rates.

 

Did your PM recommend a particular supplier/installer to you?

 

No, it's an odd request but you know, LL's are so wealthy they just throw money out the door, lol!

You would only need one on electrical items with electronics, say a dishwasher or electric roller door. You could buy cheaper units that go straight of powerpoints for individual items.

 

I'd look at it as preventative maintenance as it reduces downtime and cost later if an event was to occur without this. In saying that, the event would probably be covered by your insurance, but it could be days or weeks the Tenant is without varying levels of power in the property waiting on electricians and insurers to carry out repairs etc. which then causes other headaches.

 

Thanks all.

Yes, the PM has an offer from electrical company to do this, so it is possible that they want to expand the business instead.

Teri Scheer landlord insurance seems to cover these power surge damages to appliances due to lighting so I am covered somewhat (with a low excess I have too). Does not seem that common so I will skip this for now.

 

Seems very strange, the residential units wouldn't help much at all if the house is struck by lightning or if lightning strikes close to the house and for any other types of surges the tenant should be able to purchase an external surge protector/power board to cover themselves if required.

 

I knew that, it's called Conflict of Interest, just like my PM warned me that if I don't use their smoke alarm man's service, their smoke alarm man would refuse to service my smoke alarms which are installed by someone else.

 

Thought as much. Their offer means additional kickbacks to their business in otherwords.

Like you they would’ve pitched this to each of their landlord. Small portion will not take up on their offer, but most would accept in good faith.

 

I'd see it as risk management to protect YOUR aircons, dishwasher etc. Get a price from another sparky if you don't think it is reasonable.

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