Commonly repeated ideas
184 claims here are repetitions. A named publication said the thing, and the quote proves that it said it. What the quote does not carry is a primary source.
Two things this page is not. It is not a list of falsehoods: some of it is probably true. And it is not proof that no primary source exists, because the only place we have looked so far is the 40 publications this sweep happened to read. A missing source here can mean the idea has none, or only that we never read the document that has it. Telling those apart takes a search per idea, aimed at finding the backing rather than noticing its absence. Every idea below has now had one, and carries its own result.
All 116 of these ideas have been checked one at a time, by searching for the source rather than noting its absence: 24 contradicted by a primary source, 59 backed by one, 15 searched with nothing found, and 18 where a real source says something narrower than the retelling. 18 claims are still unchecked, and say nothing either way.
184 echoes across 29 of 30 subjects, read in 40 publications. The other 993 claims carry a source that is not another repetition. How that is decided.
Repeated, and the operator says otherwise
The strongest thing on this page. For each of these, a primary source addresses the idea directly and contradicts it, usually in one sentence, often on the very page the advice is explaining.
A person living in a Victorian rental property must pay all the utility charges themselves, and those charges include the water rates.
The rental provider must pay all other charges related to water supply and sewerage or drainage services.Consumer Affairs Victoria2023-02-07
The statutory definition of urgent repairs is mechanical - it leaves no discretion and no judgement call.
malfunctioning in a way that results or will result in a substantial amount of water being wastedVictorian Government (authorised version, Chief Parliamentary Counsel)2026-07-01
VCAT typically interprets a 'reasonable time' for a rental provider to respond to an urgent repair as 24-48 hours.
Rental providers or agents must make sure the repair is done immediately.Consumer Affairs Victoria2026-02-26
Non-urgent repairs in Victoria fall under section 73A of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.
75 Application to Tribunal for non-urgent repairsVictorian Government (authorised version, Chief Parliamentary Counsel)2026-07-01
Victorian law defines 'urgent repairs' in Schedule 3 of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.
Schedule 3—Transitional provisions—Disability and Social ServicesVictorian Government (authorised version, Chief Parliamentary Counsel)2026-07-01
A cooling failure only counts as an urgent repair in Victoria between December and March.
a failure or breakdown of any cooling appliance or cooling service provided by a residential rental provider, rooming house operator, caravan park owner or caravan ownerVictorian Government (authorised version, Chief Parliamentary Counsel)2026-07-01
In Victoria, non-document goods worth under $1,000 may be disposed of after 14 days' notice, while higher-value goods attract longer notice requirements.
An owner of premises may sell or dispose of stored goods if the former renter or other person who has a lawful right to the stored goods has not reclaimed them within 14 days, unless the owner of premises has agreed or been ordered by the Tribunal to store the goods for longer than 14 days.Victorian Government (Chief Parliamentary Counsel), Residential Tenancies Act 1997, authorised version 1132026-07-01
Where sale proceeds of abandoned goods are unclaimed for six months, the landlord must transfer the remaining money (after costs) to a government trust account or tenancy fund - such as the Residential Tenancies Fund in Queensland - within 30 days.
the owner of premises must pay into the Residential Tenancies Fund the proceeds of the sale less the amounts in subsection (1)(a) and (b) within 30 days after the end of that 6 month period.Victorian Government (Chief Parliamentary Counsel), Residential Tenancies Act 1997, authorised version 1132026-07-01
In Victoria a prospective renter can still volunteer more than the advertised rent - only the agent asking for it is banned.
uninvited offer of an amount of rent that is higher than the advertised amount of rent for the rented premises.Victorian Government (authorised version, Chief Parliamentary Counsel)2026-07-01
Because VCAT decided in Swan v Uecker that letting a Victorian rental property to Airbnb guests created only a licence and not a sub-lease, a rental provider cannot rely on the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 provisions that prohibit sub-letting without consent when trying to end the tenancy of a renter who lists the property on Airbnb.
The AirBnB agreement for occupation of the whole of the apartment was properly to be characterised as a lease between the tenants and the AirBnB guests for the period of occupation agreed between them. It followed that the tenants had entered into a sub-lease in breach of their agreement with the landlord.Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal2020-10-16
A Victorian renter may let other people stay in the rented premises short-term and charge them a fee without the rental provider's consent, because a short-stay arrangement of that kind is a licence rather than a sub-lease.
The tenants had, by means of the AirBnB agreement, effectively and practically passed their right of exclusive occupation, with all its qualities, to their AirBnB guests for the agreed period under the AirBnB agreement.Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal2020-10-16
Because the report must be in the prescribed form, a Victorian landlord cannot use a generic template, their own spreadsheet, or an app.
For the purposes of section 35(1B) of the Act, a condition report is in the prescribed form if it contains the information in Form 4 in Schedule 1.Victorian Government (Chief Parliamentary Counsel), Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021, S.R. No. 3/20212021-03-29
The one-month-per-year compensation cap applies to all standard-form Victorian rental agreements, not only long-term ones.
the Tribunal may not award an amount of compensation in excess of a maximum of one month's rent under the agreement for each 12 month period of the unexpired term of the agreement.Victorian Government - Chief Parliamentary Counsel (authorised version, Residential Tenancies Act 1997)2026-07-01
Victorian electrical safety check records must be kept for five years and a copy must be given to the renter within seven days of each check without the renter asking.
a record of an electrical safety check must be kept until a record of the next electrical safety check is createdVictorian Government (authorised version, Chief Parliamentary Counsel)2026-06-30
In Victoria a rental provider must give at least 60 days' notice of a rent increase, that 60 days being a legal minimum rather than a target.
From 25 November 2025, the minimum notice period for rental providers to issue a rent increase notice will change from 60 to 90 days.Consumer Affairs Victoria2026-02-26
Rent increases during a fixed-term agreement used to be possible by negotiation before the Victorian rental reforms and are no longer possible at all.
The rental provider is not allowed to increase the rent during a fixed term agreement unless the rental agreement (lease) has an additional clause (term) allowing for an increase.Consumer Affairs Victoria2026-02-26
In Victoria a residential rental provider must give the renter at least 60 days' written notice before a rent increase takes effect.
A residential rental provider must give a renter at least 90 days notice in the prescribed form of a proposed rent increase.Victorian Government - Chief Parliamentary Counsel (authorised version, Residential Tenancies Act 1997)2026-07-01
Victorian tenants have always been required to ask their landlord's permission before keeping a pet in a rental property.
Division 5B of Part 2 as inserted by the Consumer Legislation Amendment Act 2019 does not apply to a tenancy agreement in existence before the commencement of that Division, unless the tenant, on or after that commencement, introduces or wishes to keep a pet at the rented premises.Victorian Government (Chief Parliamentary Counsel), Consumer Legislation Amendment Act 2019 No. 47/2019, s 49 (inserting s 533 of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997)2019-12-03
A rental applicant in Victoria needs to supply identification adding up to around 100 points, and most agents ask for it.
A rental provider or their agent can request no more than two identity documents from this list:Consumer Affairs Victoria2026-04-07
An $800,000 Melbourne house can be reconfigured as a five-room rooming house to generate $1,250 to $1,600 per week.
This dataset documents 345 anonymised residential investment property acquisitions facilitated by PremiumRea, a Melbourne-based independent buyerZenodo / PremiumRea Pty Ltd (dataset curator Joey Don)2026-05-09
In Victoria, a renter or their visitor interfering with a smoke alarm lets the rental provider give the renter a notice to vacate.
If a renter, resident or their visitor does this, it is a breach of duty and a rental provider or rooming house operator may give the renter or resident aConsumer Affairs Victoria2026-02-26
Victorian rental providers must keep smoke alarm safety audit records and disclose the date of the most recent check before a renter signs, and failing to do so can void insurance and attract heavy fines.
the date of the most recent gas safety check, electrical safety check, and pool barrier compliance check, if required, for the rented premisesVictorian Government (authorised version, Chief Parliamentary Counsel)2026-06-30
Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria is a specialist dispute service that was established under Victoria's November 2025 rental reforms.
RDRV launched in June 2025 as part of the response toVictorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal2025-06-22
In Victoria, a rental provider or agent normally needs to give only at least 24 hours written notice before entering for a routine (general) inspection.
for a purpose set out in section 86(1)(d) or (f), if at least 7 days notice has been given to the renter in accordance with section 88.Victorian Government (Chief Parliamentary Counsel), Residential Tenancies Act 1997 version 1132026-07-01
Where these repetitions were read
Counts of repeated claims found in each publication, in the documents this sweep happened to read. It is not a ranking of publishers: a publication read more often has more chances to appear, and none of these counts say anything about what else it publishes.
- landlordwise.com.au29
- crownrea.com.au12
- collings.com.au10
- racv.com.au10
- carpetsteammelbourne.com.au7
- dirt2tidy.com.au7
- forgeproperty.com.au7
- marshallwhite.com.au7
- aussierentlaws.com6
- optimarea.com.au6
- urbanrenters.com.au6
- propertymanagersmelb.com.au5
- reiv.com.au5
- soho.com.au5
- aucoreelite.com4
- comptongreen.com.au4
- havenagents.com.au4
- o2ocleaning.com.au4
- blog.longview.com.au3
- conditionhq.app3
- harcourts.net3
- homeupkeep.com.au3
- jabelproperty.com.au3
- rentcover.com.au3
- safehaus.com.au3
- cubbi.com.au2
- firstcallelectrical.com.au2
- kayburton.com.au2
- legalvision.com.au2
- littlerealestate.com.au2
- premiumrea.com.au2
- realestate.com.au2
- rentbuzz.com.au2
- tenantsvic.org.au2
- turnbullcook.com.au2
And 5 more publications with a single echoed claim each.
Utility charges12 of 44
Soho Real Estate asserts that when renting in Victoria the landlord takes care of the water.
1 quote from 1 source
So who pays water rates when renting in Victoria? When renting in Victoria, your landlord takes care of the water.
Soho Real Estate asserts that a person living in a rental property in Victoria must pay…
- all the charges themselves.
- the water rates.
1 quote from 1 source
If you live in a rental property, you must pay all the charges yourself, including the water rates.
Soho Real Estate asserts that landlords and tenants are both responsible for paying their respective bills.
1 quote from 1 source
Landlords and tenants are both responsible for paying their respective bills.
Soho Real Estate asserts that the landlord must provide water and electricity to each tenant.
Marshall White asserts that Victorian rental providers are responsible for the initial connection charges for…
- electricity.
- water.
- gas.
- fixed internet connections.
- fixed telecommunications connections.
1 quote from 1 source
Rental providers are responsible for the initial connection charges for utilities like electricity, water, gas (including bottled gas), and fixed internet and telecommunications connections, including through the NBN.
Marshall White asserts that where a Victorian rental property does not have a separate meter, the rental provider is responsible for the entire utility costs.
1 quote from 1 source
If the property does not have a separate meter, rental providers are responsible for the entire utility costs, including electricity, gas, and water.
Marshall White asserts that renters are responsible for connecting and disconnecting utilities in their name during their tenancy.
1 quote from 1 source
Renters are responsible for connecting and disconnecting utilities in their name during their tenancy.
Urgent repairs11 of 38
OptimaRea asserts that the statutory definition of urgent repairs…
- lists 11 specific categories.
- leaves no discretion or judgement call.
1 quote from 1 source
defines "urgent repairs" by listing 11 specific categories. There is no discretion and no judgement call
OptimaRea asserts that the $2,500 urgent repair limit in Victoria was…
- last increased in the 2021 reforms.
- increased from $1,800.
1 quote from 1 source
The $2,500 statutory limit was last increased in the 2021 reforms (up from $1,800 previously)
OptimaRea asserts that a "reasonable time" for a Victorian landlord to respond to an urgent repair is typically interpreted by VCAT as 24-48 hours.
1 quote from 1 source
typically interpreted by VCAT as 24-48 hours for urgent repairs
OptimaRea asserts that non-urgent repairs in Victoria fall under section 73A of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.
1 quote from 1 source
Repairs that do not appear on the urgent list fall under section 73A of the RTA 1997
Crown Real Estate asserts that if urgent repairs are not addressed immediately, Victorian renters…
- can spend up to $2,500 to fix the issue themselves.
- must be reimbursed within seven days.
1 quote from 1 source
If these aren’t addressed immediately, renters can spend up to $2,500 to fix the issue themselves and must be reimbursed within seven days.
Home Upkeep asserts that landlords must act on urgent repairs within 24 hours.
1 quote from 1 source
landlords must maintain rental properties in a reasonable state of repair and act on urgent repairs within 24 hours.
Home Upkeep asserts that Victorian law defines urgent repairs in Schedule 3 of the Residential Tenancies Act.
1 quote from 1 source
Victorian law defines “urgent repairs” in Schedule 3 of the Residential Tenancies Act.
Home Upkeep asserts that cooling failure counts as urgent from December to March.
Modifications10 of 39
- Some modifications can be made by renters without the rental provider's consent.
- Other modifications require approval that cannot be unreasonably refused.
1 quote from 1 source
You can make some changes or modifications to your rental property. Some you can make without the consent of the rental provider (landlord), while others need their approval – but this cannot be unreasonably refused.
- Modifications - Tenants Victoria tenantsvic.org.au
RACV asserts that modifications to a rental property can be made…
- by Victorian renters without permission from March 2021.
- without permission on the condition that the property can be returned to its original state when the renters leave.
1 quote from 1 source
in March 2021 outlined that renters can now make certain changes to the rental property without permission – as long as the property can be returned to its original state when they leave. That means that any home decor updates must either be reversed before the renter vacates the property, or the renter must pay the landlord the cost of doing so.
RACV asserts that the law allows renters to install picture hooks provided it is not a heritage-listed property and they do not penetrate exposed brick or concrete walls.
1 quote from 1 source
The law allows renters to install picture hooks, provided it's not a heritage-listed property and does not penetrate exposed brick or concrete walls.
RACV asserts that a Victorian renter can install a security device without the landlord's permission as long as it is not hard wired, can be removed easily and does not affect neighbours' privacy.
1 quote from 1 source
without the landlord’s permission, as long as the device is not hard wired, can be removed easily and doesn’t affect neighbours’ privacy. You’ll need prior permission if the security device needs to be fitted by a
- RACV asserts that the landlord cannot unreasonably refuse disability-related modifications.
- RACV asserts that disability-related modifications, such as grab rails and hand rails, must be determined necessary by an occupational therapist or other practitioner.
1 quote from 1 source
The landlord can’t unreasonably refuse if you want to install disability-related modifications, such as grab rails and hand rails determined necessary by an occupational therapist or other practitioner.
- The modifications' further requirement takes effect on 1 July 2027.
- The modifications make draughtproofing mandatory at the start of any new lease or month-to-month conversion in Victoria.
1 quote from 1 source
A further requirement takes effect on 1 July 2027, when draughtproofing becomes mandatory at the start of any new lease or month-to-month conversion. Rental providers will need to have sealed external doors, windows and unsealed wall vents to prevent unnecessary heat loss or gain.
Abandoned goods9 of 68
- In Victoria, non-document abandoned goods under $1,000 may be disposed of after 14 days' notice.
- In Victoria, higher-value abandoned goods have longer notice requirements.
1 quote from 1 source
For example, in Victoria, non-document goods under $1,000 may be disposed of after 14 days’ notice, while higher-value goods have longer notice requirements.
Dirt2Tidy states that Victorian landlords must store personal documents for up to 90 days.
1 quote from 1 source
For example, Victorian landlords must store personal documents for up to 90 days, while in Queensland, the period is just seven days.
Dirt2Tidy states that under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 a property is considered abandoned when the tenant has permanently vacated and no longer treats it as their primary residence.
1 quote from 1 source
Under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997, a property is considered abandoned when the tenant has permanently vacated and no longer treats it as their primary residence.
Dirt2Tidy states that landlords cannot dispose of or handle abandoned goods until the lease is officially over and the tenant has fully vacated.
1 quote from 1 source
Landlords cannot dispose of or handle any leftover property until the lease is officially over and the tenant has fully vacated.
- Dirt2Tidy states that if proceeds from the sale of abandoned goods are unclaimed for six months, landlords must transfer the remaining money to a government trust account or tenancy fund within 30 days.
- Dirt2Tidy states that the Residential Tenancies Fund in Queensland is an example of a tenancy fund in the context of abandoned goods.
1 quote from 1 source
If they don’t claim within six months, landlords are responsible for transferring any remaining sale proceeds (after costs) to a government trust account or tenancy fund—such as the Residential Tenancies Fund in Queensland—within 30 days.
Haven Agents states that rental providers must…
- give renters notice of goods left behind.
- store goods left behind in a safe place for at least 14 days after giving the notice.
1 quote from 1 source
Rental providers must give renters notice of goods left behind and store these in a safe place for at least 14 days after giving the notice.
Final inspection9 of 28
O2O Cleaning states that the…
- Residential Tenancies Act in Victoria says tenants must leave their rental properties as they were at the start of the lease, except for reasonable wear and tear.
- requirement for tenants to leave their rental properties as they were at the start of the lease, except for reasonable wear and tear, means every nook and cranny of the property must be clean.
1 quote from 1 source
The Residential Tenancies Act in Victoria says tenants must leave their rental properties as they were at the start of the lease, except for reasonable wear and tear. This means every nook and cranny of your leased property must be clean.
O2O Cleaning states that professional…
- cleaners know the end-of-lease cleaning rules in Victoria.
- cleaners' expertise boosts a renter's chances of a full bond refund.
1 quote from 1 source
Professional cleaners know the end-of-lease cleaning rules in Victoria. Their expertise boosts your chances of a full bond refund.
Best Carpet Steam Cleaning Melbourne states that cleaning-related issues were involved in up to 70% of the 53,000 bond disputes heard in Victoria recently.
1 quote from 1 source
Did you know that cleaning-related issues were involved in up to 70% of the 53,000 bond disputes heard in Victoria recently?
Best Carpet Steam Cleaning Melbourne states that property managers across Melbourne now use high-resolution digital inspection tools that catch even the smallest details.
1 quote from 1 source
Property managers across Melbourne now utilize high-resolution digital inspection tools that catch even the smallest details.
Best Carpet Steam Cleaning Melbourne states that following its end of lease cleaning checklist is the most effective way to meet the legal 'reasonably clean' standard defined by Consumer Affairs Victoria.
1 quote from 1 source
Following a professional end of lease cleaning checklist victoria 2026 is the most effective way to ensure you meet the legal “reasonably clean” standard defined by Consumer Affairs Victoria.
Best Carpet Steam Cleaning Melbourne states that presenting a professional receipt…
- shifts the burden of proof.
- makes it harder for a landlord to justify a bond deduction at VCAT.
1 quote from 1 source
If a landlord claims the carpets are dirty, your professional receipt shifts the burden of proof, making it much harder for them to justify a bond deduction at VCAT.
Renter duties9 of 76
Harcourts states that the purpose of routine inspections is not to check renter duties, such as whether tenants have…
- made their beds.
- put all the dishes away.
1 quote from 1 source
The purpose of Routine Inspections is not to check if the tenant's have made their beds or if all the dishes are put away, but to ensure that the property is maintained
The Real Estate Institute of Victoria states that 90% of cases have been settled without a formal VCAT hearing.
1 quote from 1 source
90% of cases have been settled without a formal VCAT hearing
The Real Estate Institute of Victoria states that Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria is expected to take on 55% of VCAT's Residential Tenancies List caseload in its first year.
1 quote from 1 source
RDRV is expected to take on 55% of VCAT’s Residential Tenancies List caseload in its first year
Harcourts states that, for renter duties, a landlord or agent can inspect the whole premises during an inspection.
1 quote from 1 source
A landlord or agent can inspect the whole premises during an inspection.
A renter must return the home to the state it was in when they first moved in, excluding fair wear and tear.
2 quotes from 1 source
You must return the home to the state it was in when you first moved in, excluding fair wear and tear.
hiring Best Carpet Steam Cleaning Melbourne ensures you meet every strict requirement without the stress
Best Carpet Steam Cleaning Melbourne states that cleaning issues account for nearly 70% of bond disputes in Victoria.
2 quotes from 1 source
Cleaning issues account for nearly 70% of bond disputes in Victoria.
hiring Best Carpet Steam Cleaning Melbourne ensures you meet every strict requirement without the stress
Haven Agents states that new rental laws came into effect on 29 March 2021.
Haven Agents states that a term in a rental agreement can only require professional cleaning if it is needed to return the property to the condition it was in at the start of the rental agreement, taking into account fair wear and tear.
1 quote from 1 source
A term in a rental agreement can only require professional cleaning if it is needed to return the property to the condition it was in at the start of the rental agreement, taking into account fair wear and tear.
Rent bidding8 of 51
RentBetter states that rent bidding is prohibited in Victoria under new rental laws that came into effect in 2021.
1 quote from 1 source
New rental laws came into effect in 2021 and rent bidding is prohibited in Victoria.
Soho Real Estate states that tenants in Victoria can still offer more than the advertised rent voluntarily.
1 quote from 1 source
It’s illegal for agents to ask for higher offers in some states like NSW and Victoria, but tenants can still offer more voluntarily.
Forge Property advises renters not to…
- offer rent above the advertised price.
- propose side deals.
1 quote from 1 source
Do not offer rent above the advertised price or propose side deals
McNeill Real Estate told rental providers that owners and agents cannot accept rent above the advertised price.
1 quote from 1 source
Owners and agents cannot accept rent above the advertised price
The Real Estate Institute of Victoria stated that…
- all Victorian residential rental properties must be advertised at a fixed price.
- it is unlawful to advertise rental properties with a price range.
- it is unlawful to initiate rental bidding.
1 quote from 1 source
The REIV also notes that all Victorian residential rental properties must be advertised at a fixed price. It is unlawful to advertise rental properties with a price range or initiate rental bidding.
Subletting8 of 40
Property Managers Melbourne asserted that…
- VCAT ruled the rooms used as an Airbnb were a licensing issue.
- VCAT ruled the rooms used as an Airbnb were not a sublease.
- the reason for VCAT's ruling was that the Airbnb guests did not have exclusive use of the property.
1 quote from 1 source
This case was heard at the Supreme Court of Victoria after the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) had ruled in favour of the tenants. VCAT had decided that the rooms used as an Airbnb were a licensing issue and not a sublease. This ruling was concluded because the Airbnb guests did not have exclusive use of the property.
Property Managers Melbourne asserts that…
- in Victoria over 30,000 Airbnb stays are available.
- hosts of the Airbnb stays can average $5,200 per year.
1 quote from 1 source
In Victoria, over 30,000 Airbnb stays are available, and the hosts of these listings can average $5,200 per year.
Nelson Alexander asserts that the law surrounding sub-leasing in Victoria is clear.
LegalVision asserts that landlords cannot rely on the Residential Tenancies Act provisions prohibiting subletting without consent when trying to evict tenants who list their properties on Airbnb.
1 quote from 1 source
The VCAT decision means that landlords should be careful about trying to evict tenants who list their properties on Airbnb, on the basis that they do not have permission to sub-lease. As the matter currently stands, you cannot rely on the provisions in the RTA which prohibit subletting without consent.
LegalVision asserts, regarding subletting, that Victorian tenants are able to let others stay on the premises short-term and charge a fee, as long as it is not a sub-lease.
1 quote from 1 source
The VCAT decision has been considered good news for tenants wanting to earn some extra cash through Airbnb. Tenants are able to let others stay on the premises short-term and charge a fee, as long as it is not a sub-lease.
Condition report7 of 40
Landlord Wise asserted that for a self-managing landlord in Victoria, the condition report is the single most important document they will rely on when a tenancy ends.
1 quote from 1 source
If you’re a self-managing landlord in Victoria, the condition report is the single most important document you’ll rely on when your tenancy ends. It’s the foundation of every bond claim, every cleaning dispute, and every damage argument at VCAT.
Landlord Wise asserts that a Victorian condition report cannot be completed using…
- a generic template.
- a landlord’s own spreadsheet.
- an app that does not follow the prescribed format.
1 quote from 1 source
You cannot use a generic template, your own spreadsheet, or an app that doesn’t follow the prescribed format.
A signed Victorian condition report…
- matters more than photos alone.
- is legally conclusive.
1 quote from 1 source
This is why the condition report matters more than photos alone. Photos are helpful supporting evidence, but a signed condition report is legally conclusive.
Landlord Wise asserts that failing to provide a Victorian condition report carries a penalty of up to 25 penalty units.
1 quote from 1 source
This isn’t optional. Failing to provide one carries a penalty of up to 25 penalty units, and more importantly, it undermines your ability to recover costs at the end of the tenancy.
Fixed term agreement7 of 44
Collings Real Estate states that for fixed-term agreements under 5 years rent increases are allowed only if the amount or method of calculation is specified in the lease.
1 quote from 1 source
Fixed-term agreements under 5 years: increases only if the amount or method of calculation is specified in the lease
The standard form rental agreement at clause 16.1 limits a claim for rent foregone to no more than one month's rent for each year remaining on the agreement.
1 quote from 1 source
The standard form rental agreement (clause 16.1) limits the amount of rent foregone you can claim to no more than one month’s rent for each year remaining on the agreement.
Landlord Wise states the one-month-per-year compensation cap applies to all standard-form agreements, not just long-term ones.
1 quote from 1 source
This cap applies to all standard-form agreements — not just long-term ones.
Landlord Wise states a self-managing rental provider who does not use an agent has no re-letting fee to recover.
1 quote from 1 source
If you self-manage your property and do not use an agent, there is no re-letting fee to recover.
Landlord Wise states that a rental provider cannot charge the renter a penalty for breaking the lease.
1 quote from 1 source
You cannot charge the renter a penalty for breaking the lease.
Landlord Wise states that a fixed early-termination fee is unenforceable where the agreement gives no explanation of how the figure was calculated.
1 quote from 1 source
If the agreement says “the renter will pay $2,000 for breaking the lease” with no explanation of how that figure was calculated, the clause is unenforceable.
Landlord Wise states a no-fault notice to vacate is of no effect if it specifies a termination date earlier than the end of the fixed term.
1 quote from 1 source
For no-fault reasons (sale, renovation, demolition, business use, family member, public purposes), a notice is of no effect if it specifies a termination date earlier than the end of the fixed term.
Gas and electrical safety checks7 of 30
ConditionHQ states that Victoria is the only Australian state with mandatory periodic gas and electrical safety checks every 2 years.
1 quote from 1 source
Victoria is the only Australian state with mandatory periodic gas and electrical safety checks — every 2 years, under the Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021.
- A significant change to the two-year electrical safety check took effect on 13 October 2026.
- The two-year electrical safety check was extended to all Victorian residential rental agreements.
1 quote from 1 source
A significant change took effect on 13 October 2026: the mandatory two-year electrical safety check requirement in Victoria now applies to all residential rental agreements, including long-standing tenancies that predate the requirement's introduction under the Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021.
1st Call Electrical states that the recently changed Residential Tenancy Regulations made it mandatory for landlords to conduct gas and electric safety checks at least every 2 years.
1 quote from 1 source
The recently changed Residential Tenancy Regulations have made it mandatory for landlords to conduct regular gas and electric safety checks on their rental properties. Gas and electric safety checks must be done at least every 2 years and smoke alarms must be tested annually.
LongView states that gas safety checks are required every two years for Victorian rental properties.
1 quote from 1 source
Gas safety checks are required every two years for Victorian rental properties, but this is where many rental providers unintentionally fall out of compliance.
- LongView states that under Victorian rental laws rental providers must ensure electrical safety checks are completed at least once every two years.
- Under Victorian rental laws, rental providers must ensure electrical safety checks are completed at least once every two years.
1 quote from 1 source
Under Victorian rental laws, rental providers must ensure that electrical safety checks are completed at least once every two years for rental properties.
Rent increase7 of 42
Collings Real Estate states that the 60-day period for notice of a rent increase is a minimum, not a target.
1 quote from 1 source
The 60-day period is a minimum, not a target. Landlords who issue notice fewer than 60 days before the intended start date cannot simply push the start date back informally.
Collings Real Estate states that the 12-month limit on rent increases applies regardless of whether the property is on a fixed-term or periodic agreement.
1 quote from 1 source
This 12-month limit applies regardless of whether the property is on a fixed-term or periodic (month-to-month) agreement.
Collings Real Estate states that…
- landlords on fixed-term agreements could once sometimes negotiate rent increases mid-lease.
- the flexibility for landlords on fixed-term agreements to negotiate rent increases mid-lease no longer exists for residential tenancies.
1 quote from 1 source
Prior to those reforms, landlords on fixed-term agreements could sometimes negotiate rent increases mid-lease. That flexibility no longer exists for residential tenancies.
Collings Real Estate states there is no statutory cap on the percentage by which rent can be increased in Victoria.
1 quote from 1 source
There is no statutory cap on the percentage by which rent can be increased in Victoria.
Forge Real Estate states that in Victoria rent…
- can only increase once every 12 months under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.
- must not be excessive under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.
1 quote from 1 source
In Victoria, rent can only increase once every 12 months and must not be excessive under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.
Rent reduction7 of 37
Collings Real Estate states that a landlord must give a renter at least 60 days written notice before a rent increase takes effect.
1 quote from 1 source
A landlord must give a renter at least 60 days written notice before a rent increase takes effect. This is one of the most important procedural requirements, and failing to meet it invalidates the increase entirely.
Collings Real Estate states that there is no statutory cap on the percentage by which rent can be increased in Victoria.
1 quote from 1 source
There is no statutory cap on the percentage by which rent can be increased in Victoria.
Forge Property states that landlords in Victoria must provide 60 days' written notice using the approved Notice of Rent Increase form.
1 quote from 1 source
Landlords must provide 60 days' written notice using the approved Notice of Rent Increase form
Landlord Wise states that…
- the minimum notice period for a rent increase in Victoria was changed from 60 days by Section 11 of the Consumer and Planning Legislation Amendment (Housing Statement Reform) Act 2025.
- Section 11 of the Consumer and Planning Legislation Amendment (Housing Statement Reform) Act 2025 amended Section 44(1) of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.
1 quote from 1 source
Since 25 November 2025, the minimum notice period for a rent increase in Victoria is 90 days. This was changed from 60 days by Section 11 of the Consumer and Planning Legislation Amendment (Housing Statement Reform) Act 2025, which amended Section 44(1) of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.
Cubbi states that the rent increase notice period in Victoria…
- is 60 days.
- will become 90 days from November 2025.
1 quote from 1 source
In Victoria, you can increase the rent once every 12 months. You must give written notice using the official form. Right now it is 60 days’ notice, but from November 2025 it will be 90 days. If the notice is not valid, the tenant does not need to pay the increase.
Rental minimum standards7 of 38
Safehaus asserts that the mould and damp requirement…
- is a Victorian rental minimum standard.
- catches the most landlords off guard among Victorian rental minimum standards.
1 quote from 1 source
All rooms free from mould and damp caused by the building structure. This is the standard that catches the most landlords off guard.
Safehaus asserts that painting over mould is not compliance with the Victorian minimum standard.
RACV asserts that failure to meet the rental minimum standards in a Victorian rental property can incur penalties of…
- more than $11,000 for an individual.
- over $57,000 for a company.
1 quote from 1 source
Failure to meet the minimum standards in a rental property can incur penalties of more than $11,000 for an individual and over $57,000 for a company.
- RACV surveyed Victorian rental providers.
- RACV asserts that 81 per cent of the Victorian rental providers surveyed by RACV use a property manager.
1 quote from 1 source
RACV data reveals that 81 per cent of Victorian rental providers surveyed use a property manager, citing reasons such as professional advice on their responsibilities as rental providers and assurance that the rental property is compliant with the standards.
Break lease6 of 39
Landlord Wise states that a renter who broke the agreement may be required to cover reasonable costs the rental provider paid to advertise the property to find a replacement renter.
1 quote from 1 source
If you paid to advertise the property to find a replacement renter, the renter who broke the agreement may be required to cover those costs — but only reasonable costs.
Landlord Wise states that clause 16.1 of the standard form rental agreement limits claimable rent foregone to no more than one month's rent for each year remaining on the agreement.
1 quote from 1 source
The standard form rental agreement (clause 16.1) limits the amount of rent foregone you can claim to no more than one month’s rent for each year remaining on the agreement.
Landlord Wise states that a self-managing Victorian rental provider who does not use an agent has no re-letting fee to recover.
1 quote from 1 source
If you self-manage your property and do not use an agent, there is no re-letting fee to recover.
Landlord Wise states that an unexplained flat early termination fee in a Victorian rental agreement is unenforceable.
realestate.com.au states that in the traditional rental market…
- standard leases are typically fixed at six or twelve months
- moving or breaking a lease can be costly
1 quote from 1 source
This blend of short and mid-range commitments differs from the traditional rental market, where standard leases are typically fixed at six or twelve months, and where moving or breaking a lease can be costly.
- Why this short-lease rental model is about to become much more available realestate.com.au
Pets in rentals6 of 39
RentBuzz states that Victoria was the first Australian state to introduce comprehensive protections for pets in rentals.
1 quote from 1 source
Victoria was the first Australian state to introduce such comprehensive protections for pet-owning renters.
For pets in rentals, RentBuzz states that the burden falls on the landlord to demonstrate that their refusal of a pet request is reasonable.
1 quote from 1 source
It is important to understand that the burden falls on the landlord to demonstrate that their refusal is reasonable.
Little Real Estate states that…
- tenants have always needed to request permission from their landlord to keep pets.
- landlords now cannot unreasonably refuse pets unless there is a practical reason.
1 quote from 1 source
Tenants have always needed to request permission from their landlord to keep pets in their properties, however now the new laws are in place so that landlords cannot unreasonably refuse pets, unless there is a practical reason.
Turnbull Cook states that…
- a landlord has 14 days commencing the day after receipt of the form to decide whether the pet may be kept.
- refusal to allow the pet to be kept may only be made on reasonable grounds.
1 quote from 1 source
A landlord has 14 days commencing the day after receipt of the form to make a decision if the pet may be kept. Refusal to allow the pet may only be made on reasonable grounds.
Rental application6 of 33
Urban Renters asserts that most property management agents will ask a rental applicant to provide identification that adds up to around 100 points.
1 quote from 1 source
Before submitting your rental application, most property management agents will ask you to provide identification that adds up to around 100 points.
Urban Renters advises rental applicants to have a short pet resume ready before the inspection if they are a pet owner.
1 quote from 1 source
Have your documents ready before the inspection. This includes identification, proof of income (such as recent pay slips), references, and any pet information, pet references, or a short pet resume if you’re a pet owner looking for pet-friendly rentals.
Urban Renters asserts that a cover letter gives a rental applicant the chance to introduce themselves beyond the standard completed application form.
1 quote from 1 source
Your well-written cover letter gives you the chance to introduce yourself beyond the standard completed application form.
Urban Renters advises rental applicants to…
- treat a property inspection like a relaxed job interview.
- dress neatly in smart casual clothing.
1 quote from 1 source
Treat the inspection like a relaxed job interview for your future home. Dress neatly in smart casual clothing to make a positive first impression.
Urban Renters asserts that agents tend to prioritise complete rental applications submitted first, especially in areas with low vacancy rates.
1 quote from 1 source
Agents tend to prioritise complete applications submitted first, especially in areas with low vacancy rates.
Bond5 of 36
Landlord Wise states that a Victorian rental provider must pay the bond to the RTBA within 10 business days of receiving it.
2 quotes from 1 source
You must pay the bond to the RTBA within 10 business days of receiving it.
Rental Bond VIC — Complete Guide for Self-Managing Landlords
Landlord Wise states that…
- Victoria does not allow a separate pet bond.
- the maximum bond is one month's rent regardless of whether pets are permitted.
2 quotes from 1 source
No Pet Bond: Victoria does not allow a separate pet bond — the maximum bond is one month's rent regardless of whether pets are permitted
Rental Bond VIC — Complete Guide for Self-Managing Landlords
Aussie Rent Laws states that under Victoria's rules the landlord or their agent must lodge a tenant's bond with the RTBA within 10 business days of receiving the bond.
2 quotes from 1 source
Under Victoria’s rules the landlord or their agent must lodge a tenant’s bond with the RTBA within 10 business days of receiving it.
How to Lodge a Bond with the RTBA in Victoria
A Victorian landlord who collected the bond themselves must lodge the bond within 10 business days of receiving the bond.
2 quotes from 1 source
If you collected the bond yourself, you must lodge within 10 business days of receiving it.
How to lodge the bond in VIC
Notice of intention to vacate5 of 33
Before the November 2025 reforms, rental providers could issue a 'no reason' notice to vacate at the end of a fixed-term agreement under sections 91ZZD and 91ZZDA of the Act.
1 quote from 1 source
Before the November 2025 reforms, rental providers could issue a “no reason” notice to vacate at the end of a fixed-term agreement under sections 91ZZD and 91ZZDA of the Act.
Landlord Wise states the minimum notice period for a mortgagee notice to vacate is 60 days.
1 quote from 1 source
The minimum notice period for a mortgagee notice is 60 days.
Landlord Wise states that a letter, email or text message is not a valid notice of intention to vacate in Victoria even if it contains all the required information.
1 quote from 1 source
A letter, email, or text message is not a valid notice to vacate, even if it contains all the required information.
Aussie Rent Laws states that the standard notice of intention to vacate for most tenants in Victoria is 28 days for periodic tenancies.
1 quote from 1 source
The standard notice for most tenants in Victoria is 28 days for periodic tenancies, but fixed-term agreements and special situations (for example, ending due to family violence or breach) may alter the timeframe.
Aussie Rent Laws states there is no single prescribed government form for a tenant's Notice of Intention to Vacate in Victoria.
1 quote from 1 source
There is no single prescribed government form for a tenant’s Notice of Intention to Vacate in Victoria. A clear written notice including your details, the property address and the vacate date is sufficient; templates and guidance are available from Consumer Affairs Victoria.
Periodic agreement5 of 36
Collings Real Estate states that the 12-month limit on rent increases applies regardless of whether the property is on a fixed-term or periodic month-to-month agreement.
1 quote from 1 source
This 12-month limit applies regardless of whether the property is on a fixed-term or periodic (month-to-month) agreement.
Forge Property states that landlords in Victoria can increase rent…
- once every 12 months for periodic leases.
- at the end of a fixed-term lease if specified in the agreement.
1 quote from 1 source
In Victoria, landlords can increase rent once every 12 months for periodic leases or at the end of a fixed-term lease if specified in the agreement
Compton Green states that the legislation will abolish the End of Fixed Term Notice to Vacate for both agreements of less than five years and agreements of more than five years.
1 quote from 1 source
The legislation will abolish the End of Fixed Term Notice to Vacate for both agreements of less than five years and agreements of more than five years. If the Notice to Vacate is issued before the 25th November 2025, it will remain in force after the new legislation is in effect.
Compton Green states that the current Notice to Vacate period is 60 days.
1 quote from 1 source
The current Notice to Vacate period is 60 days; this will be increased to 90 days’ notice on the 25th of November 2025.
Rooming house5 of 42
- An $800,000 Melbourne house that generates $550 per week as a single tenancy can be reconfigured as a rooming house.
- A rooming house created by reconfiguring an $800,000 Melbourne house can generate $1,250 to $1,600 per week.
1 quote from 1 source
Rooming house investment in Melbourne is one of the highest-yield strategies legally available — done well, an $800,000 house generating $550 per week as a single tenancy can be reconfigured to generate $1,250 to $1,600 per week.
Jabel Property states that…
- a well-located and professionally managed rooming house can achieve gross yields of 8%-10%.
- such a rooming house's gross yields of 8%-10% are against an average Victorian residential investment yield of around 3% to 4%.
1 quote from 1 source
In Victoria, the average rental yield for a standard residential investment property sits around 3% to 4% . In contrast, a well-located and professionally managed rooming house can achieve gross yields of 8%–10% , with many investors reporting 150%+ rental uplift after conversion.
Jabel Property states that vacancy rates in well-managed rooming houses tend to stay below 2%.
1 quote from 1 source
Because of this, vacancy rates in well-managed rooming houses tend to stay below 2% , significantly outperforming the general rental market.
Smoke alarms5 of 44
1st Call Electrical states that if a renter or their visitor interferes with a smoke alarm the rental provider can give the renter a notice to vacate.
1 quote from 1 source
If a renter or their visitor interferes with the smoke alarm, it is a breach of duty and the rental provider can give the renter a notice to vacate.
Crown Real Estate Agents states that…
- smoke alarm checks are mandatory every year in Victoria.
- failure to keep smoke alarm safety audit records can invalidate insurance.
- failure to keep smoke alarm safety audit records can lead to heavy fines.
1 quote from 1 source
Additionally, smoke alarm checks are mandatory every year. You are required to keep records of these safety audits and provide the date of the most recent check to a renter before they sign a new lease. Failure to do so can invalidate your insurance and lead to heavy fines.
Landlord Wise states that mandatory smoke alarm testing is now a specific obligation under the Residential Tenancies Act rather than a general maintenance duty.
1 quote from 1 source
Mandatory smoke alarm testing. Rental providers must ensure all smoke alarms are correctly installed and in working condition. This is now a specific obligation under the Act, not just a general maintenance duty.
Compensation claim4 of 27
Crown Real Estate Agents states that rental providers who ignore the minimum standards may be ordered by VCAT to pay compensation or offer a rent reduction.
1 quote from 1 source
Rental providers who ignore these standards face significant penalties and may be ordered by VCAT to pay compensation or offer a rent reduction.
Crown Real Estate Agents states that catching a minor leak or faulty seal early saves rental providers thousands in…
- emergency repair costs.
- potential renter compensation claims.
1 quote from 1 source
By catching a minor leak or a faulty seal early, we save you thousands in emergency repair costs and potential renter compensation claims.
Landlord Wise states that Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria was established under the November 2025 reforms.
1 quote from 1 source
Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV) is a specialist service established under the November 2025 reforms.
Non-urgent repairs4 of 34
Crown Real Estate Agents states that…
- a rental provider has 14 days to complete non-urgent items once notified in writing.
- non-urgent items include a sticking door and a minor tap leak.
1 quote from 1 source
For non-urgent items, such as a sticking door or a minor tap leak, you have 14 days to complete the work once notified in writing.
Crown Real Estate Agents states that the list of urgent repairs has expanded significantly under the recent Victorian law changes.
1 quote from 1 source
The list of “urgent” repairs has expanded significantly under the recent Victorian law changes.
Crown Real Estate Agents states that if a rental provider does not arrange urgent repairs straight away, the renter can legally pay for the work and demand reimbursement within seven days.
1 quote from 1 source
If you or your agent don’t arrange urgent repairs straight away, the renter can legally pay for the work themselves and demand reimbursement within seven days.
Rent arrears4 of 34
AuCore Elite asserts that Victorian landlords may issue a Notice to Vacate once rental arrears exceed 14 days.
1 quote from 1 source
Landlords may issue a Notice to Vacate once rental arrears exceed 14 days.
AuCore Elite asserts that if a Victorian tenant pays all outstanding rent before the matter progresses the eviction process may be stopped.
1 quote from 1 source
If the tenant pays all outstanding rent before the matter progresses, the eviction process may be stopped.
AuCore Elite asserts that rental arrears remain one of the most common challenges faced by Victorian landlords.
1 quote from 1 source
Rental arrears remain one of the most common challenges faced by Victorian landlords.
AuCore Elite asserts that attempting to evict a Victorian tenant without following the correct legal process may result in significant penalties.
1 quote from 1 source
Attempting to evict a tenant without following the correct legal process may result in significant penalties.
VCAT application4 of 48
Collings Real Estate states a renter who pays an unlawfully imposed rent increase can apply to VCAT to recover the overpaid amount.
1 quote from 1 source
If a renter pays a rent increase that was unlawfully imposed, they can apply to VCAT to recover the overpaid amount.
Landlord Wise states renters can challenge no-fault notices at VCAT within 30 days and that breach-based notices can be challenged at the possession order hearing.
1 quote from 1 source
Renters can challenge no-fault notices at VCAT within 30 days — breach-based notices can be challenged at the possession order hearing
Landlord Wise states only Victoria Police can carry out a forcible eviction, acting on a VCAT warrant.
1 quote from 1 source
Only Victoria Police can carry out a forcible eviction, acting on a VCAT warrant.
Aussie Rent Laws states most tenancy disputes are resolved before a tribunal hearing through negotiation or mediation.
1 quote from 1 source
Most tenancy disputes are resolved before a tribunal hearing through negotiation or mediation.
Domestic violence provisions3 of 11
EBM RentCover states that renters are responsible for damage to a Victorian rental property caused by family and domestic violence.
1 quote from 1 source
Renters are responsible for damage to the property caused by FDV. Your impacted tenant can apply to VCAT to determine who is responsible for paying for any damage to the property.
EBM RentCover states that the…
- Victorian Parliament passed the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2018 in September 2018.
- Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2018 included reforms concerning family and domestic violence.
1 quote from 1 source
The Victorian Parliament passed the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2018 in September 2018 which included reforms concerning family and domestic violence (FDV).
Rental provider duties2 of 33
Compton Green states that from 1 December 2025 all Victorian residential rental properties must comply with new blind and curtain cord safety standards.
1 quote from 1 source
From 1 December 2025, all Victorian residential rental properties must comply with new blind and curtain cord safety standards.
Compton Green tells renters that safety upgrades are considered an urgent repair for its property management team to action.
1 quote from 1 source
If you notice loose or hanging cords, let your property manager know immediately. Safety upgrades are considered an urgent repair for our property management team to action.
Right of entry2 of 47
aussierentlaws.com states that the right of entry normally requires at least 24 hours written notice for a routine inspection in Victoria.
1 quote from 1 source
At least 24 hours written notice is normally required for a routine inspection.
Regarding right of entry, aussierentlaws.com states that routine inspections in Victoria are commonly scheduled every three months.
1 quote from 1 source
Routine inspections are commonly scheduled every three months; more frequent visits without a strong reason may be unreasonable.