Three years after the Victorian Rental Law changes came into effect in March 2021, Consumer Affairs Victoria has begun auditing rental documentation and compliance surrounding safety checks and minimum standards. Industry insiders also report that Energy Safe Victoria is conducting electrical checks on new builds, suggesting that this may soon extend to established investment properties.

New Renting Taskforce to Enforce Compliance

Recently, the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) informed agents that the Allan Labor Government is establishing a new renting taskforce to crack down on non-compliant rental providers and estate agents. On March 21, 2024, Minister for Consumer Affairs Gabrielle Williams announced the creation of this dedicated taskforce. Its focus includes offenses such as false advertising, renting out properties that don’t meet minimum standards, and failing to lodge bonds. Learn more about this initiative here.

Blind Cord Safety Mandates in Victorian Rentals

The State Government is currently consulting on new minimum rental standards aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and safety. Under the proposed regulations, blind cords in rental properties will need to meet modern safety standards regardless of their installation date. This change, effective from October 30, 2025, mandates that all blind cords be secured with a cord guide or cleat anchored to a wall or structure, with no exemptions.

Rental Reforms and Safety Provisions

Since the 2021 rental reforms, renters are allowed to install blind or cord anchors without landlord permission. Additionally, Victoria provides free blind cord safety kits to help residents modify older fixtures. These kits are available through the Consumer Affairs Victoria website.

Kerrie Shearer, whose grandson Lincoln tragically died while playing with a blind cord, has been a vocal advocate for closing the safety loophole in rental properties. Minister for Consumer Affairs Gabrielle Williams emphasized the necessity of this reform to prevent further tragic accidents, stating, "One death is too many, and the safety of children is non-negotiable."

Ensuring Compliance with Minimum Standards

Minimum standards, distinct from safety checks, relate specifically to a renter’s amenity, safety, and privacy. According to the Residential Tenancies Act 1997, rental providers must ensure that rented premises comply with prescribed rental minimum standards before a renter moves in. Failure to comply can result in renters ending the rental agreement or requesting urgent repairs.

A rental property in Victoria must meet 14 categories of minimum compliance standards. These standards are included in the Disclosure Statement provided by First National Real Estate Neilson Partners when signing an authority, re-leasing a property, or renewing a rental agreement. View the minimum standards here.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with Victoria’s rental minimum standards can result in fines of up to $10,000 for individual rental providers and $50,000 for body corporates. Additionally, the owner and agent will be publicly listed on the Consumer Affairs Victoria Non-Compliance Register, where they remain for three years.

How First National Real Estate Neilson Partners Can Help

First National Real Estate Neilson Partners collaborates with CheckHero to manage safety checks and compliance for investor clients. Our dedicated property management team ensures that rental properties comply with all regulations, avoiding penalties and maintaining the value of your investment.

Here's how we support you as your trusted agent:

• Expert knowledge of compliance and disclosure requirements
• Comprehensive Disclosure Statements to ensure no surprises
• Paperless processes for ease and speed
• Ongoing safety checks and reporting through CheckHero
• Handling and rectifying non-compliant items
• Conducting minimum standards audits if required

With increasing scrutiny and enforcement of rental regulations, it is essential for property owners to stay on top of compliance issues. This not only ensures the safety and well-being of renters but also protects property owners from penalties and maintains property value.

Contact your property manager at Narre Warren, Berwick, or Pakenham for more information on how we can assist you.