If you're a landlord or property investor in Victoria, you're likely aware of the significant changes to rental laws introduced in 2021. Even three years later, many property owners still feel uncertain about how these rules affect their investment properties. With serious legal and financial implications for non-compliance, understanding these laws and working closely with a reliable property manager is essential.
So, how are Victoria’s renting rules influencing your property, and what can your property manager do to help?
The rental law changes brought over 130 reforms, transforming Victoria's rental system into one of the most tenant-focused in Australia. These reforms aim to improve safety, security, and long-term stability for tenants, but they have also created new responsibilities for landlords and property managers.
Some key changes include:
For many property owners, the new rules have added complexity and extra costs. Ensuring your property remains compliant involves more than just an initial investment—it requires ongoing attention to property standards and potential upgrades. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially if your property manager isn’t providing clear guidance or proactive support.
There are still many landlords and property managers who are unsure about the new rules, which can lead to avoidable compliance problems or penalties. It’s important that your property manager fully understands these laws and works actively to keep your property up to date.
A good property manager is important to effectively meet the requirements of Victoria’s renting rules. Here are a few key ways they can help protect your investment and avoid unnecessary costs:
Your property manager should handle the scheduling and coordination of all required safety checks, such as electrical, gas, and smoke alarm inspections. These checks must be performed regularly to meet compliance standards.
At BISE Property, we ensure landlords stay on top of these requirements. If your property needs upgrades to meet the minimum standards, such as improved heating or weatherproofing, your property manager should coordinate the necessary work with trusted tradespeople.
Staying adherent to Victoria’s renting rules can sometimes lead to unexpected expenses, particularly when repairs or upgrades are needed. A capable property manager can help reduce financial stress by negotiating payment plans with tradespeople or offering optimised solutions. At BISE Property, we focus on transparency, helping landlords manage these costs without compromising on quality or compliance.
Laws can change, and compliance requires ongoing attention. A proactive property manager will consistently review your property’s status and ensure all legal requirements are being met. This kind of hands-on management helps prevent issues before they escalate into costly problems.
As stated by Consumer Affairs Victoria: “Renters and rental providers must undertake safety-related activities set out in the rental agreement. Where necessary, they must ensure the activity is carried out by a suitably qualified person.”
Are You Receiving the Right Support?
Not all property managers are fully up to speed with the new renting rules. If you find that your property manager isn’t offering clear advice or keeping you informed, it may be time to reconsider who is managing your property.
At BISE Property, we keep ourselves informed with the legislative changes to ensure our clients’ properties remain compliant and profitable. We believe that clear communication and proactive management are key to making the process as smooth as possible for landlords.
Victoria’s renting rules have introduced new responsibilities for landlords, but they also offer opportunities to improve tenant satisfaction and protect your investment. By partnering with an experienced property manager who understands these laws inside out, you can avoid costly compliance issues and keep your property in great condition.
If you’re unsure whether your property is compliant, or if you feel that your current property manager isn’t providing the support you need, get in touch with BISE Property. We’re here to help you ensure your investment stays secure.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist with managing your property and ensuring full compliance with Victorian rental laws.
