Updated on 23/07/2026
Summary:
Victoria's minimum rental standards set out the requirements rental providers must meet to provide a safe, secure and comfortable home for renters. In this article, we explain when the standards apply, what's covered and why staying compliant matters. From heating and electrical safety to locks, ventilation and essential amenities, understanding these requirements can help you maintain your property, reduce potential issues and create a positive rental experience for your renter.
Why Minimum Rental Standards Matter
Victoria's minimum rental standards were introduced to ensure all renters have access to homes that are safe, secure and fit to live in. For property owners, staying compliant is more than meeting legal responsibilities. It’s about protecting your investment.
Well maintained properties are often better positioned to attract and retain renters. They also tend to have fewer maintenance issues, which can help reduce ongoing costs.
"A proactive approach to property maintenance and compliance not only helps meet Victoria's rental standards, but also contributes to a more positive experience for both property owners and renters." - Brad Pearce, Miles Real Estate Director and Auctioneer
When Do Victoria's Minimum Rental Standards Apply?
Rental properties must meet Victoria's minimum rental standards before they’re advertised for lease.
The standards apply to rental agreements that:
- Started on or after 29 March 2021, or
- Started before 29 March 2021 and became a periodic (month-to-month) agreement on or after 29 March 2021.
These requirements are set out in Schedule 4 of the Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021. Rental properties must continue to meet the minimum standards throughout the tenancy. If an issue arises and the property no longer meets these standards, the renter can contact the rental provider or agent to request an urgent repair.
What's Covered by the Minimum Rental Standards?
Safety
- Electrical safety – Rental properties must be fitted with a modern switchboard, including circuit breakers and safety switches, and it needs to be inspected by a qualified electrician.
- Structural soundness – Rental providers and agents are required to ensure the property is structurally sound, free from major defects and weatherproof to provide renters with a comfortable home.
Privacy and Security
- Locks – All external entry doors, except screen doors, need to have a secure locking system. If a deadlock is not installed, the door must have a lock that can be operated with a key from the outside.
- Windows – Any external window that can be opened must have a working latch and be able to remain securely open or closed as needed.
- Window coverings – Living areas and bedrooms need to be fitted with curtains or blinds that maintain privacy and help block out unwanted light. All corded blinds and curtains must have an anchor installed to avoid a loose loop from forming.
Liveability
- Heating – To meet the minimum standards, the main living area should have a fixed heater that’s in good working order. If the lease agreement started on or after 29th March 2023, the heater also needs to be energy efficient.
- Lighting – Interior rooms, corridors and hallways must have access to adequate lighting. Adequate lighting can be provided through natural light during the day, including light from adjoining rooms, and working artificial light at night.
- Bathroom and toilets – Make sure the bathroom has a washbasin and either a shower or a bath with reliable hot and cold water. If the bathroom has a shower, it should have a 3-star water-efficient shower head. Where a 3-star shower head cannot be installed, a 1-star or 2-star shower head is appropriate.
- Kitchen – To meet the minimum standards, a rental property must have a dedicated space for cooking and food preparation that includes a sink connected to hot and cold water, and a cooktop with two or more burners. If an oven is provided, it must be in good working order.
- Laundry – The laundry area should have access to a reasonable supply of hot and cold water.
Health
- Ventilation – Check that all rooms have adequate ventilation, particularly bathrooms, showers, toilets and laundries where moisture can build up.
- Mould and damp – Ensure the property is free from mould and damp caused by building issues, such as leaks, rising damp or structural defects.
- Vermin proof bins – Your renters must have access to rubbish and recycling bins that are vermin-proof and meet council collection standards.
A Simpler Way to Stay Compliant
At Miles Real Estate, our Property Management Team understands the importance of keeping on top of changing rental requirements to help our rental providers remain compliant and ensure renters enjoy a safe, comfortable living experience.
We partner with Darebin Trade Services and Syncom to support property owners with property compliance. Darebin Trade Services conducts electrical and gas safety checks, while Syncom provides comprehensive minimum standards inspections to identify any areas that may require attention. Together, they make staying compliant simpler.
Keen to use this opportunity to refresh your kitchen, bathroom or laundry? Miles Concierge specialises in non-structural cosmetic updates that can modernise the look and feel of your property.
