Hi everyone, Lu here from Real Estate HQ!
You’re probably used to seeing me behind a desk, but today I’m switching things up. As a long-time property investor and hands-on renovator, I’m diving into a DIY safety project for one of our rental properties.
Let’s talk about deck safety—on a budget.
The Project Background
This particular property has a raised deck—about 900mm off the ground, so just under the 1-metre threshold. By regulation, that means we technically don’t need to install a railing.
But: when preparing a property for tenancy, safety and presentation are key. Even if something isn’t strictly required by code, if it increases tenant safety and boosts your property’s appeal, it’s worth doing.
That’s why we decided to install a cost-effective balustrade solution using chain wire.
Why Chain Wire?
Traditional timber or glass balustrades can be expensive—especially for larger decks like the one on this property. Chain wire offers a budget-friendly alternative that still meets safety expectations and looks neat if done right.
What the Regulations Say:
- Maximum spacing in the mesh: 10cm
- Minimum height of the railing: 1 metre
- No specific rules on bottom clearance, but we added a 2cm lift just for good measure.
This gives us a sturdy, compliant, and safe outcome—perfect for rental presentation.
Our DIY Approach
This is a full DIY job, and here’s how we tackled it:
- Pop-Riveted Wire Loops
We installed small loops along the frame using a rivet gun. These anchor the wire securely and allow it to run cleanly through each section. - Intermediate Poles
These poles guide and support the wire across each section. It’s recommended not to stretch chain wire more than 10 metres—our three sections are all under that, so we’re within spec. - Wire Threading & Tensioning
So far, I’ve threaded the wire through but haven’t tensioned it completely. I’m waiting until all sides of the deck are wired before tightening everything evenly.
Lessons From the Field
Yesterday, I had a minor hiccup—didn’t drill a hole wide enough to fit a grommet properly. It’s an easy fix, but a good reminder: measure twice, drill once!
Despite that, the first section is in place and looking great. It’s subtle, sturdy, and safe—exactly what we were aiming for.
Why This Matters for Investors
For anyone managing or renovating rental properties, this is a great example of how you can:
- Improve tenant safety
- Meet or exceed regulatory expectations
- Stay within budget
- Add long-term value to your investment
Stay tuned—I’ll be sharing more updates as I finish the rest of the deck and other DIY projects around this property.
Have questions about DIY safety solutions for rental properties? Drop them in the comments below or reach out—happy to share tips from the field!
