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Further changes to Victoria's rental laws are coming into effect from 13 October 2026, bringing new responsibilities for rental providers and their agents.For Melbourne landlords, now is a good time to review your property's compliance, safety checks and management processes.Here are some of the key changes to be aware of.<h3>1. Gas and Electrical Safety Checks Every Two Years</h3>From 13 October 2026, rental providers and their agents must arrange gas and electrical safety checks every two years for rental properties.This applies to rental agreements whether they started before, on or after 13 October 2026.For landlords, this means keeping track of inspection dates and ensuring qualified tradespeople complete the required checks.<h3>2. Stronger Bond Claim Requirements</h3>New rules will strengthen the process for making a claim against a renter's bond.Rental providers must notify renters in advance if they intend to make a bond claim and provide supporting evidence.Good record keeping and clear communication will therefore become increasingly important when managing a rental property.<h3>3. Keep Records of Rental Property Standards</h3>Rental providers and their agents will also need to keep records showing that the property met the required minimum rental standards before it was advertised, offered for rent or occupied by a renter.For landlords, this makes proper documentation an important part of ongoing property management.<h3>4. Why Professional Property Management Matters</h3>Managing a rental property involves more than collecting rent. Landlords also need to keep track of:<ul><li>Rental compliance</li><li>Safety checks</li><li>Repairs and maintenance</li><li>Routine inspections</li><li>Bond management</li><li>Lease requirements</li><li>Tenant communication</li><li>Property records</li></ul>Consumer Affairs Victoria recommends that rental providers choosing an agent understand the services provided and the fees charged, and ensure the management authority clearly sets out the relevant responsibilities.<blockquote><a data-mce-href="https://www.realink.com.au/property-management/melbourne-property-management---property-manager---realink" href="https://www.realink.com.au/property-management/melbourne-property-management---property-manager---realink">A professional property manager can help coordinate these ongoing responsibilities and keep landlords informed.</a></blockquote><h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.realink.com.au/property-management/ringwood-property-management" href="https://www.realink.com.au/property-management/ringwood-property-management">What Should Melbourne Landlords Do Now?</a></h3>With the October changes approaching, consider reviewing:✔ Gas and electrical safety-check dates ✔ Property minimum-standard records ✔ Bond documentation ✔ Maintenance records ✔ Your current property management arrangementsIf you're unsure whether your rental property is ready, speak with your property manager or seek appropriate professional advice.<h3>Looking for a Property Manager in Melbourne?</h3>Realink provides professional property management across Melbourne and surrounding suburbs, including Ringwood and Melbourne's eastern suburbs.Our services include:<ul><li>Leasing and tenant selection</li><li>Rent collection</li><li>Routine inspections</li><li>Maintenance coordination</li><li>Bond management and lodgement</li><li>Lease renewals</li><li>Landlord communication</li></ul>If you're considering changing property managers or renting out an investment property, we can help you understand your options.<a data-mce-href="https://www.realink.com.au/contact" href="https://www.realink.com.au/contact">Get a Free Rental Property Appraisal</a> Find out what your property could potentially rent for and discuss your property management options with Realink.

Victoria Rental Law Changes 2026: What Melbourne Landlords Need to Know

Real estate agent conducting property showing to diverse group of prospective buyers in bright modern living room

<blockquote>New rules are changing how residential property prices must be advertised and disclosed in Victoria.</blockquote>If you are planning to sell a home in Melbourne, particularly through an auction or fixed-date sale, it is important to understand the changes coming into effect from 1 October 2026.Most of the new requirements start on 1 October 2026, while the new rules specifically applying to auctions and fixed-date sales apply to sales held on and from 16 October 2026.<h3>What Is Changing?</h3>The Victorian Government has introduced new requirements aimed at improving price transparency and strengthening existing underquoting rules.The key changes include:<ul><li>A new Property Price Statement (PPS) replacing the current Statement of Information</li><li>Publication of the seller's reserve price before certain auctions and fixed-date sales</li><li>Earlier publication of the final sale price</li><li>More detailed information about comparable properties</li><li>Changes to where price information must appear in online advertising</li></ul><h3>1. Reserve Prices Will Need to Be Published</h3>For auctions and fixed-date sales held on and from 16 October 2026, the seller's reserve price must generally be published at least 7 days before the sale.The reserve must be shown as a single dollar amount. If the reserve changes, the seven-day period starts again before the auction or fixed-date sale can proceed.For example, if an auction is scheduled for 16 October 2026, the reserve price would need to have been disclosed by 9 October 2026.Sellers will still be able to determine their reserve price, subject to the new requirements and the advice process provided by their agent.<h3>2. The Statement of Information Is Being Replaced</h3>The existing Statement of Information will be replaced by a Property Price Statement.The new statement will contain key information about the property being sold and comparable properties, including:<ul><li>Property type</li><li>Number of bedrooms</li><li>Number of bathrooms</li><li>Number of car spaces</li><li>Internal floor area</li><li>Land size</li><li>Relevant comparable property information </li></ul>For online listings, the Property Price Statement must be displayed prominently, including on the first visible part of the main advertisement and next to the advertised price.<h3>3. Sold Prices Will Need to Be Published</h3>Another significant change is the requirement to publish the final sale price.For relevant sales becoming unconditional from 1 October 2026, the agent must generally update the Property Price Statement with the sold price within 7 days and keep it publicly available for at least 18 months, subject to applicable exemptions.This means sellers should discuss the new disclosure requirements with their agent before commencing a sales campaign.<h3>What Does This Mean for <a data-mce-href="https://www.realink.com.au/property-sales" href="https://www.realink.com.au/property-sales">Melbourne Sellers</a>?</h3>If you are currently selling your property or planning to launch a campaign soon, now is a good time to review your sales strategy.Your agent may need to review:<ul><li>Current advertising</li><li>Comparable sales</li><li>Estimated selling price</li><li>Property measurements</li><li>Property Price Statement requirements</li><li>Auction or fixed-date campaign timing</li><li>Reserve price arrangements</li><li>Post-sale disclosure processes</li></ul>Consumer Affairs Victoria recommends that agents review their sales processes, advertising practices, compliance procedures, staff training and systems ahead of the changes.<h3>What About Existing Campaigns?</h3>The transition is particularly important for properties already on the market.Although the legislation commences on 1 October, the new reserve-price requirements for auctions and fixed-date sales apply to sales held on and from 16 October 2026.For example, an auction held on 15 October may fall under different transitional arrangements from an auction held on 16 October.If your property is already being marketed, speak with your selling agent about how the new requirements may affect your campaign.<blockquote>Preparing to Sell Your Melbourne Property?</blockquote>The new rules add another consideration when planning a residential property sale in Victoria.At Realink, we combine local market knowledge, comparable sales information and strategic marketing to help Melbourne property owners prepare for the market.Whether you are considering an auction, fixed-date sale or another selling method, our team can discuss your property, current market conditions and the options available to you.<a data-mce-href="https://www.realink.com.au/property-appraisal-market-analysis" href="https://www.realink.com.au/property-appraisal-market-analysis">GET A FREE PROPERTY APPRAISAL</a><a data-mce-href="https://www.realink.com.au/property-sales" href="https://www.realink.com.au/property-sales">EXPLORE RESIDENTIAL &amp; COMMERCIAL PROPERTY SALES</a>

Victoria’s New Property Sale Price Disclosure Laws: What Melbourne Sellers Need to Know

Woman's hands holding keys and property documents at desk, symbolizing residential property purchase and homeownership achievement

Looking for a property manager in Melbourne? Choosing the right property manager can make a big difference to the day-to-day experience of owning an investment property.A good property manager should do more than collect rent. They should communicate clearly, understand your local rental market and help you manage tenants, maintenance and ongoing tenancy matters.Here are five things Melbourne landlords should consider.<figure id="figure-xgjcmntmdpmucfvzmy"><img id="xgjcmntmdpmucfvzmy" src="https://rjdavx8ozyznxeyh.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/production/websites/infinite-images/68d8673f-5133-4312-9d25-7eacdf86094c-luRXQ3P6ZJJAebVuXL6C7S3bLmpI6x.png" alt="melbourne property" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://rjdavx8ozyznxeyh.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/production/websites/infinite-images/68d8673f-5133-4312-9d25-7eacdf86094c-luRXQ3P6ZJJAebVuXL6C7S3bLmpI6x.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>1. Local Market Knowledge</h2>Rental markets can vary significantly between Melbourne suburbs.A property manager with local knowledge can provide useful advice about rental prices, tenant demand and comparable properties.If you own an investment property in Ringwood, Croydon, Mitcham, Donvale or Melbourne's eastern suburbs, understanding the local market can help when setting the rent and preparing your property for lease.<a data-mce-href="https://www.realink.com.au/property-management/melbourne-property-management---property-manager---realink" href="https://www.realink.com.au/property-management/melbourne-property-management---property-manager---realink">Explore Ringwood Property Management</a><figure id="figure-2v46gkf8bmucfw44j" class=""><img id="2v46gkf8bmucfw44j" src="https://rjdavx8ozyznxeyh.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/production/websites/infinite-images/b96909c2-c2f8-4a62-8154-e8a648efdac1-5bsvaReOPC4V345YnPTmj5mrOwovmR.png" alt="real estate agent" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://rjdavx8ozyznxeyh.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/production/websites/infinite-images/b96909c2-c2f8-4a62-8154-e8a648efdac1-5bsvaReOPC4V345YnPTmj5mrOwovmR.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>2. Communication</h2>Clear communication is one of the most important parts of property management.Before choosing an agency, ask:<ul><li>Who will manage my property?</li><li>How can I contact them?</li><li>How often will I receive updates?</li><li>How are important issues communicated?</li><li>You want a property manager who keeps you informed without making you chase them for answers.</li></ul><figure id="figure-5417o8apnpmucfw997"><img id="5417o8apnpmucfw997" src="https://rjdavx8ozyznxeyh.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/production/websites/infinite-images/e51a16ec-2dad-4cba-8b0e-98f1d6c747af-iJBumHHGbNW8km3usV4KAANugfvKqN.png" alt="property management tools" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://rjdavx8ozyznxeyh.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/production/websites/infinite-images/e51a16ec-2dad-4cba-8b0e-98f1d6c747af-iJBumHHGbNW8km3usV4KAANugfvKqN.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>3. Rent and Arrears Management</h2>Rent collection is a core part of managing an investment property.Ask how the agency monitors rental payments and handles arrears when they occur.A good process should include regular monitoring, appropriate communication with tenants and keeping landlords informed.<h2>4. Repairs and Property Inspections</h2>Maintenance is part of owning a rental property.Find out how your property manager handles:<ul><li>Tenant maintenance requests</li><li>Urgent repairs</li><li>Routine inspections</li><li>Tradespeople</li><li>Repair approvals</li><li>Communication with landlords</li></ul>A clear process can help ensure issues are dealt with efficiently while keeping you informed.<h2>5. Understand the Property Management Fees</h2>Don't compare agencies based only on the management percentage.Ask what is included in the fee.For example:<ul><li>Rent collection</li><li>Arrears management</li><li>Routine inspections</li><li>Landlord statements</li><li>Bond management and lodgement</li><li>Maintenance coordination</li><li>Lease renewals</li><li>Tenant communication</li></ul>The cheapest fee does not necessarily provide the best overall value. Compare the total cost and services included.<a data-mce-href="https://www.realink.com.au/property-management/property-management-pricing" href="https://www.realink.com.au/property-management/property-management-pricing" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">View Realink Property Management Pricing</a>

How to Choose a Property Manager in Melbourne

Ringwood VIC 3134 | September 2026How much can you rent a property for in Ringwood?If you own an investment property in Ringwood, understanding the local rental market can help you make better decisions about rental pricing, property presentation and leasing.The Ringwood rental market includes a mix of houses, townhouses, units and apartments, with rental values varying depending on property type, size, condition, location and features.Ringwood Rental Market at a Glance According to realestate.com.au data covering September 2025 to August 2026, the median weekly rent in Ringwood was approximately:<table border="1" style="width: 100%;" data-mce-style="width: 100%;" data-mce-selected="1"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Property Type</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Median Weekly Rent</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Houses</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">$650/week</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Units</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">$560/week</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">2-bedroom houses</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">$550/week</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">3-bedroom houses</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">$650/week</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">4-bedroom houses</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">$780/week</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">2-bedroom units</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">$550/week</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">3-bedroom units</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">$678/week</td></tr></tbody></table>Over the same period, median rents increased by approximately 4.8% for houses and 6.7% for units.Different property websites may report slightly different figures because they use different datasets and reporting periods. For example, Domain's current Ringwood data indicates around $670/week for three-bedroom houses and $785/week for four-bedroom houses.For landlords, this means suburb-wide median figures should be treated as a general market guide, rather than an exact rental value for an individual property.<figure id="figure-a827a2jwy9muas665z"><img id="a827a2jwy9muas665z" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/dpfeuVJgVldq1BbOAnvjovTzBKcgmHdq3grtRNuAl2Sgbsq02rGwBTsKDjzMARUU.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 65%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="65%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/dpfeuVJgVldq1BbOAnvjovTzBKcgmHdq3grtRNuAl2Sgbsq02rGwBTsKDjzMARUU.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 65%;"></figure><h3>How Quickly Are Properties Leasing in Ringwood?</h3>Rental price is only one part of the equation.According to realestate.com.au, the median time on market during the September 2025–August 2026 period was approximately 19 days for houses and 18 days for units in Ringwood.A well-priced and well-presented property can attract stronger enquiry, while an asking rent that is significantly above comparable properties may result in fewer enquiries and a longer vacancy period.For landlords, the goal is not necessarily to advertise at the highest possible price.The goal is to find the right balance between rental income, tenant demand and vacancy.<h3>What Can Ringwood Landlords Do to Maximise Rental Appeal?</h3>Before advertising your property, consider:1. Present the property wellA clean, tidy and well-maintained property can make a strong first impression.2. Review obvious maintenance issuesFixing small issues before marketing can improve the overall presentation.3. Use quality marketingProfessional photography and clear property advertising can help attract suitable tenants.4. Check comparable propertiesLook at similar properties currently available and recently leased in Ringwood before deciding on an asking rent.5. Review the rental price regularlyRental conditions change. A rental price that was appropriate several months ago may not necessarily reflect the current market.<h3>Ringwood Rental Market for Landlords</h3>For property owners, managing a rental property is about more than achieving the highest weekly rent.A successful leasing strategy should also consider:Vacancy Tenant quality Property condition Maintenance Rental pricing Communication Long-term property performance A slightly lower rent with a suitable long-term tenant may sometimes produce a different overall result from constantly changing tenants in pursuit of a higher asking price.The right strategy depends on the individual property and the landlord's objectives.<figure id="figure-7e31gu8pcimuas6uuz"><img id="7e31gu8pcimuas6uuz" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/35DDJFrBpPdMv5VydS7HiyBORdcuxv87vTut2u3TSWUqVspD0U646SPq1b7p5L78.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><h3>Find Out What Your Ringwood Property Could Rent For</h3>Get your FREE Ringwood rental appraisal today. <a data-mce-href="https://www.realink.com.au/property-management/ringwood-property-management" href="https://www.realink.com.au/property-management/ringwood-property-management" title="Ringwood Property Management">More details</a>Or speak with our local property management team about your investment property.<a data-mce-href="https://www.realink.com.au/contact" href="https://www.realink.com.au/contact">CONTACT REALINK</a>

Ringwood Rental Market 2026: Rent Prices & Local Market Update

Real estate agent's hands positioning wooden house model on property documents and floor plans at desk

Published: September 2026 | Realink Real EstateVictoria’s property market is about to see important changes to the way residential properties are marketed and sold.From 1 October 2026, new property sale and price transparency requirements will change the responsibilities of real estate agents and sellers. The new rules will have a particular impact on properties being sold by auction or fixed-date sale, including certain expressions of interest and tender-style campaigns.At Realink, we believe sellers should understand these changes before choosing a sales strategy and setting their expectations for the campaign.<h3>What is changing?</h3>One of the biggest changes is the requirement for a seller’s reserve price to be disclosed before an auction or fixed-date sale.For auctions and fixed-date sales held from 16 October 2026, the reserve price must generally be published at least 7 days before the scheduled sale.The reserve must be shown as a single dollar amount, rather than a price range or wording such as “from”, “over” or “starting at”.If the reserve price has not been published for the required seven-day period, the auction or fixed-date sale cannot proceed under the new requirements.<h3>Example</h3>If a property is scheduled for auction on Saturday, 24 October 2026, the reserve price would need to be disclosed by Saturday, 17 October 2026.This means sellers will need to discuss their reserve price with their agent well before auction day.<h3>A new Property Price Statement</h3>Another significant change is the introduction of the Property Price Statement (PPS).The PPS will replace the existing Statement of Information and will provide buyers with information about the property and comparable properties used when considering its price.The new statement will need to be displayed prominently in the property's online advertising.Agents will also need to consider relevant comparable properties when determining and communicating price information. Where three suitable comparable properties cannot be identified, the new rules allow one or two comparable properties to be used where available.For sellers, this means the pricing conversation with your agent will become even more important. Comparable sales, property features and current market conditions will all need to be carefully considered.<h3>What happens if the reserve price changes?</h3>Sellers can still change their reserve price, but the new disclosure requirements need to be taken into account.If the reserve is changed within the relevant seven-day period, the property may need to satisfy a new seven-day disclosure period before the auction or fixed-date sale can proceed.This is why sellers should work closely with their agent when deciding on a reserve and avoid leaving this decision until the last minute.<h3>What if I don't want to disclose my reserve?</h3>A seller can choose not to disclose a reserve price.However, if the reserve has not been disclosed in accordance with the new requirements, the property cannot proceed to auction or a qualifying fixed-date sale.A seller may instead consider selling by private treaty, subject to the applicable rules for that method of sale.This makes the choice of sales method an important part of your initial selling strategy.<h3>Will this affect private sales?</h3>Potentially.The new rules are particularly focused on auctions and fixed-date sales, but sellers should be aware that the way a campaign is structured can matter.For example, if an agent invites multiple buyers to submit offers by a particular date and time, this may in some circumstances be considered a fixed-date sale and trigger the new requirements.For this reason, sellers should discuss the proposed campaign structure with their agent before setting deadlines or creating competition between buyers.<h3>Sold prices will become more transparent</h3>The changes don't stop once the property is sold.For sales that become unconditional from 1 October 2026, agents will generally need to update the Property Price Statement with the property's sold price within 7 days.The updated information must generally remain publicly available for at least 18 months, subject to applicable exemptions.This represents a significant change for the Victorian property market, particularly for sellers who have traditionally preferred not to publicly disclose their final sale price.<h3>What does this mean for sellers?</h3>For homeowners preparing to sell, the key message is plan early.Before launching your campaign, consider:<ul><li>Which sales method is most appropriate for your property?</li><li>What do recent comparable properties suggest about the market?</li><li>What price range and strategy should be discussed with your agent?</li><li>If selling by auction or fixed-date sale, when does the reserve need to be confirmed?</li><li>Are all property details and comparable sales information accurate?</li><li>Are you comfortable with the new requirements around publishing the eventual sale price?</li></ul>The new rules may also mean that sellers need to allow additional time for preparation and decision-making before an auction or fixed-date campaign.<h3>How can Realink help?</h3>Selling a property is a significant financial decision, and changes to the rules can make the process feel more complicated.At Realink, our role is to help sellers understand their options, prepare their property for market and develop a sales campaign that is appropriate for the property and current market conditions.We can help you understand:✓ Your available selling methods Auction, private sale and other campaign strategies can have different requirements and considerations.✓ Current comparable sales Understanding what similar properties have recently achieved can help inform your pricing discussion.✓ Your campaign timeline The new disclosure requirements mean important decisions need to be made at the right time.✓ The new price transparency requirements We can explain how the Property Price Statement and reserve-price requirements may affect your campaign.<h3>Thinking of selling in Victoria?</h3>If you are considering selling your property in Melbourne or surrounding areas, now is a good time to discuss your options with a local real estate professional.The new Victorian rules introduce additional requirements, but with the right preparation, sellers can enter the market with a clearer understanding of the process.Contact Realink today to discuss your property and selling strategy.This article provides general information only and is not legal advice. Property owners should obtain independent legal advice about how the Victorian property sale laws apply to their individual circumstances.Source: Consumer Affairs Victoria, New changes to property sales and underquoting laws, updated 15 September 2026.

Victoria’s New Auction and Set-Date Sale Rules: What Sellers Need to Know

Real estate agent's hands presenting property listing documents and market data on tablet in bright office workspace

From 25 November 2025, your property must meet all minimum standards before it is advertised for rent. These fall into 15 key categories, expanding to 19 categories from March 2027 as new energy-efficiency standards phase in.Additionally, from 13 October 2026, property managers and rental providers must hold supporting records that demonstrate the rental property meets all minimum standards.<h3>Current 15 Minimum Standards Checklist</h3><ul><li>Bathroom</li></ul>Functional washbasin and a shower or bath supplied with hot and cold water. Showers must feature a minimum 3-star WELS water efficiency rating. (Note: From 1 March 2027, new agreements or periodic conversions will require a 4-star WELS rating).<ul><li>Electrical Safety</li></ul>Modern switchboards fitted with circuit breakers and safety switches (residual current devices) that comply with current safety regulations.<ul><li>Heating</li></ul>An operational fixed heater in the main living area. Must be an energy-efficient system for agreements signed from March 2023 onward. (Note: From 1 March 2027, when an existing heater reaches end of life, it must be replaced with an energy-efficient electric system, such as reverse-cycle air conditioning).<ul><li>Kitchen</li></ul>A dedicated cooking and food preparation area. Functional sink with hot and cold water. Operational stovetop with two or more burners, and a working oven (if installed).<ul><li>Laundry</li></ul>If a laundry area is provided on the premises, it must have functional hot and cold water supply.<ul><li>Lighting</li></ul>All habitable rooms, hallways, and functional areas must have access to natural daylight during the day and adequate artificial lighting at night.<ul><li>Locks</li></ul>All external entry doors (excluding flyscreens or storm doors) must be fitted with a functional lock that can be secured from the outside and opened from the inside without a key.<ul><li>Mould &amp; Damp</li></ul>All rooms must be completely free from mould and dampness caused by or related to the building structure.<ul><li>Structural Soundness</li></ul>The property must be fully weatherproof, structurally sound, and maintained in a safe condition.<ul><li>Toilets</li></ul>Must be in good working order and connected to an approved sewage or wastewater treatment system, located in a dedicated or appropriately combined room.<ul><li>Ventilation</li></ul>Adequate natural or mechanical airflow in all habitable rooms, including wet areas such as bathrooms and laundries.<ul><li>Vermin-Proof Bins</li></ul>Standard council-compliant rubbish and recycling bins must be provided for the property.<ul><li>Window Coverings</li></ul>Curtains or blinds must be installed in all bedrooms and main living areas to provide privacy and block light.<ul><li>Windows</li></ul>External windows that are capable of opening must have functional latches or locks to secure the property against unauthorized entry.<ul><li>Blind Cord Anchors</li></ul>From 1 December 2025, all internal window coverings with cords or chains must be secured with safety anchors to prevent strangulation hazards in compliance with safety regulations.<figure id="figure-4tf7o6fx5nmu0obujk" class=""><img id="4tf7o6fx5nmu0obujk" src="https://rjdavx8ozyznxeyh.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/production/websites/infinite-images/ceff40c8-36f4-4e9a-a06c-bb457e5e3509-n4Xl7n0bV85dIbsQRocTsaoTdOUlZR.png" alt="Hotel staff member with clipboard inspecting pet-friendly room amenities and safety features" title="Hotel staff member with clipboard inspecting pet-friendly room amenities and safety features" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://rjdavx8ozyznxeyh.public.blob.vercel-storage.com/production/websites/infinite-images/ceff40c8-36f4-4e9a-a06c-bb457e5e3509-n4Xl7n0bV85dIbsQRocTsaoTdOUlZR.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Phasing In From 2027: New Energy-Efficiency Standards</h3><ul><li>Cooling</li></ul>From 1 March 2027: At the start of a new rental agreement or conversion to a periodic (month-to-month) lease, a fixed energy-efficient cooling system must be installed in the main living area (minimum 3-star energy rating, or 2-star for a central system). Existing non-efficient fixed coolers must be upgraded at end-of-life. From 1 July 2030: This standard applies to all active residential rentals regardless of lease start dates.<ul><li>Ceiling Insulation</li></ul>From 1 March 2027: At the start of a new agreement or periodic conversion, ceiling insulation meeting a minimum performance rating of R5.0 must be installed by an accredited professional in any uninsulated ceiling spaces.<ul><li>Hot Water Systems</li></ul>From 1 March 2027: When an existing hot water system reaches end-of-life, it must be replaced with an energy-efficient electric system (such as a heat pump hot water unit).<ul><li>Draughtproofing</li></ul>From 1 July 2027: At the start of a new agreement or periodic conversion, all external doors, openable external windows, and unsealed wall vents must be properly sealed to prevent unnecessary thermal loss or gain.

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Victoria Rental Law Changes 2026: What Melbourne Landlord...

Victoria’s New Property Sale Price Disclosure Laws: What ...

How to Choose a Property Manager in Melbourne

Ringwood Rental Market 2026: Rent Prices & Local Market U...

Victoria’s New Auction and Set-Date Sale Rules: What Sell...

Checklist: Rental Properties Minimum Standards