Minimum standards legalisation
Consumer Affairs Victoria have mandated fourteen (14) key minimum standards requirements for rental property, in accordance with the National Building Code, Victorian Building Authority and Residential Tenancies Act.
The bathroom must have a washbasin and a shower or bath, with hot and cold water connected.
Showers must have a 3-star water-saving showerhead. If that’s not possible (e.g. older homes), a 1- or 2-star is okay.
From 29 March 2023, all rental homes must have an updated switchboard with circuit breakers and safety switches (also called RCDs, RCCBs, or RCBOs).
The landlord must hire a licensed electrician to check and ensure compliance.
If the home has a circuit breaker switchboard:
The electrician must ensure safety switches are added to power and lighting circuits.
If the home has an old fuse board:
The switchboard will likely need to be fully replaced to meet the standard.
Safety switches must be added to all circuits, including fixed appliances like ovens, hot water, and air con.
All rentals must have a fixed heater (not portable) in the main living area, and it must work properly.
For agreements starting from 29 March 2023:
The heater must be energy-efficient. If it’s not, it must be upgraded.
Acceptable energy-efficient heaters include:
A non-ducted air conditioner or heat pump (2-star or better)
A gas heater (2-star or better)
Ducted or hydronic heating with an outlet in the living area
A wood heater or fireplace
Apartments:
If it’s too expensive or not allowed (e.g. by owners corp), a standard fixed heater can be used instead.
Landlords must keep evidence and inform renters before signing the lease.
The home must have a kitchen with:
A space for cooking and food prep
A sink with hot and cold water
A stovetop with at least two burners
If there’s an oven, it must work properly.
Exemptions apply for heritage-listed properties.
If there is a laundry, it must be connected to hot and cold water.
Rooms, hallways, and corridors must have enough natural or artificial light to be usable.
Natural light from nearby rooms counts during the day.
Exemptions apply for heritage-listed homes.
All main external doors must have a working deadlatch or key lock from outside, and be easily opened from inside.
Exceptions apply if:
The door can’t fit a deadlatch
It’s a screen door
Another law requires a different lock
The door is already behind a secure barrier (e.g. locked gate or foyer)
It’s heritage-listed with an exemption
All rooms must be free of mould and damp related to the building structure.
The property must be safe, structurally sound, and weatherproof.
The toilet must work properly and be connected to:
A sewer system, or
A council-approved septic system
The toilet must be in a private room, like a separate toilet or bathroom.
All living areas, bathrooms, toilets, and laundries must have adequate airflow.
Homes must meet Building Code of Australia ventilation rules.
The landlord must provide a rubbish bin and recycling bin that are vermin-proof and suitable for council collection.
Bedrooms and living rooms must have curtains or blinds that:
Can close
Block light
Give privacy
Any external window that opens must have a lock or latch to keep it secure.
Our FAQ section is a valuable resource for all your queries regarding minimum standard checks and compliance with the Residential Tenancies Act.
Who is responsible for meeting minimum standards in a rental property?
Rental providers (owners) are legally responsible for making sure their property meets the minimum standards set out in the Residential Tenancies Act. Failing to comply can lead to penalties of over $11,000, and in serious cases where a renter is harmed, it may result in criminal charges.
How often should a rental property undergo a Minimum Standards Check in Victoria?
There is currently no legal requirement for Minimum Standards Checks to be carried out at set intervals in rental properties.
However, it’s recommended that checks be conducted every 2 years—aligning with Consumer Affairs Victoria’s mandatory gas and electrical safety check timelines. Ultimately, the decision is up to the rental provider.
What does a Minimum Standards Check involve?
A Minimum Standards Check involves a visual inspection of the 14 key areas outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act. These include structural soundness, window and door locks, heating, electrical safety devices, ventilation, mould and dampness, as well as bathroom, toilet, and kitchen facilities. The inspection is guided by the requirements of the National Construction Code, Victorian Building Authority, and Consumer Affairs Victoria.
What are some common hazards found during a Minimum Standards Check?
A Minimum Standards Check can uncover a range of issues that affect the safety, comfort, and legal compliance of a rental property. Some common hazards include:
– Security Issues
Missing or faulty door locks and window latches can compromise renter safety, increasing the risk of break-ins or personal harm.
– Structural Defects
Leaks, cracks, water damage, or unstable structures may indicate the property is not structurally sound or weatherproof—failing to meet minimum safety requirements.
– Mould and Dampness
Moisture from leaks, poor ventilation, or insufficient insulation can cause mould growth, which may lead to health issues and reduced indoor air quality.
How long does a Minimum Standards Check take to complete?
The time required for a Minimum Standards Check can vary depending on the size and layout of the property. On average, the on-site inspection takes between 1 to 2 hours.
How much does a Minimum Standards Check cost with Home Safety Ballarat?
The cost of a Minimum Standards Check with Home Safety Ballarat is $150 + GST.
What should I do if the Minimum Standards Check identifies issues that need to be addressed?
The outcome of the check will depend on the specific condition of the property. Some issues may require action, while others may be exempt under certain concessions outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act where compliance isn’t reasonably possible.
Our comprehensive reports clearly separate findings into two categories to help you understand their priority:
Minimum Standards Repair – items that must be addressed to meet legal requirements.
Recommendation – suggested improvements that are not mandatory but may enhance safety, comfort, or compliance.
Can I conduct the Minimum Standards Check myself, or does it need to be done by a qualified tradesperson?
The Residential Tenancies Act does not require that a qualified tradesperson carry out a Minimum Standards Check.
However, we strongly recommend engaging experienced tradespeople, as the check involves understanding specific requirements under the Residential Tenancies Act, Residential Tenancies Regulations, the National Construction Code, and guidelines set by the Victorian Building Authority. Their expertise helps ensure accurate assessment and full compliance.
