Why are rooftop gas appliances different? #
Many homes have gas appliances installed on rooftops, including ducted heating units and solar hot water systems.
While these appliances can usually be serviced safely, they must be accessible without placing technicians at unnecessary risk. Safe access is an important part of completing a compliant gas safety inspection and service. Victorian guidance emphasises that appliance locations should allow safe installation, servicing, maintenance and replacement while complying with occupational health and safety requirements.
Safety Comes First #
At Rental Safety Inspections, the safety of our technicians, occupants and property is our highest priority.
If a rooftop appliance cannot be accessed safely using standard methods, we may be unable to complete the service during the scheduled visit.
Examples include:
- No permanent roof access
- Steep or fragile roof surfaces
- Unsafe weather conditions
- Insufficient fall protection
- Restricted access around the appliance
Where additional safety equipment or specialist technicians are required, a separate visit may be necessary.
Appliances Commonly Found on Rooftops #
These may include:
- External ducted gas heaters
- Solar hot water booster units
- Rooftop gas water heaters
- Commercial rooftop gas equipment
- Other manufacturer-approved rooftop installations
When Specialist Access May Be Required #
Some properties require equipment beyond a standard ladder.
Depending on the installation, safe access may involve:
- Working-at-heights technicians
- Safety harnesses
- Roof anchor systems
- Elevated work platforms (EWPs)
- Scissor lifts or boom lifts
- Two-person teams for safe ladder operation
The access method depends on the property layout and applicable safety requirements.
What Happens if We Can’t Safely Access the Appliance? #
If safe access is unavailable, we will:
- Inspect any accessible parts of the installation where possible.
- Complete any testing that can be safely performed.
- Document that the appliance could not be fully serviced.
- Advise the property manager or landlord of the access issue.
- Recommend the most appropriate next steps.
Our technicians will never place themselves or occupants at risk to complete a service.
Property Owner Responsibilities #
Property owners can help ensure efficient servicing by providing safe access to rooftop appliances.
This may include:
- Permanent roof access where appropriate
- Safe walkways
- Adequate working space around the appliance
- Roof structures capable of supporting service personnel
- Compliance with relevant installation and safety requirements
Proper access helps reduce delays and allows future servicing to be completed safely.
Frequently Asked Questions #
Can my rooftop heater still be serviced? #
Yes, provided it can be accessed safely using appropriate equipment and safe work practices.
Will there be an additional charge? #
If specialist access, working-at-heights technicians or specialised equipment is required, an additional service fee may apply. We will advise you before any extra work is arranged.
Can the inspection continue if the rooftop appliance cannot be reached? #
In many cases, our technician can complete the remaining inspection items and advise what additional work is required to fully service the rooftop appliance.
Why can’t technicians simply use a ladder? #
Occupational health and safety legislation requires technicians to use safe methods of access. Depending on the roof height, pitch and appliance location, a ladder alone may not be an acceptable or safe solution.
Need a Gas Safety Inspection? #
Rental Safety Inspections provides professional gas safety inspections and servicing throughout Victoria.
Our licensed gas fitters assess appliance accessibility, perform required servicing where safe to do so, and provide clear reports for landlords and property managers.
Book your gas safety inspection today to help keep your rental property safe and compliant.
