Finding into death of QRB QRB

Contributing factors

• Absence of working smoke alarms in rental property
• Disabling of smoke alarm batteries by tenant due to nuisance activations from smoking and candles/incense
• Fire likely originated from electrical fault or ignition from combustible materials (incense sticks, tea lights)
• Poor housekeeping and electrical hazards including extension leads and multiple power boards
• Indoor smoking and storage of combustible materials
• Mental health issues
• Substance use

Coroner's recommendations

1. Minister for Housing and Building to strengthen smoke detector and alarm system requirements in Victoria in line with Queensland reforms: requiring all residential properties regardless of age to have smoke alarms that are either hardwired or powered by non-removable 10-year batteries, interconnected, and less than 10 years old; with consultation of Fire Rescue Victoria, Country Fire Authority, and Victorian Building Authority
2. Consider providing financial support (rebates or discounts similar to Victorian Energy Upgrades) to assist homeowners with mandatory smoke alarm upgrades
3. Consider mandating sprinkler fire systems in all new residential buildings to provide dual protection with smoke alarms
4. Review and strengthen enforcement mechanisms for smoke alarm compliance in rental properties, including consideration of roles for Consumer Affairs Victoria and local councils in auditing and enforcement to reduce reliance on renters to advocate for themselves