Check before listing
Before advertising or offering to let, the provider or agent must reasonably believe the property meets the standards. Resolve defects and obtain the verification needed to support that assessment.
A guide for Victorian rental providers
Your rental property.
The standards it needs to meet.
Know what is required, understand the checks and keep a clear record of your property’s condition.
Whether you are preparing to lease a property or reviewing an existing rental, this guide explains the current minimum standards and how an inspection can help.
The obligation and the evidence
Compliance is more than a checklist.
The property must satisfy the applicable standards. An inspection is a way to assess and document it; paying for a report does not make an unresolved defect compliant.
Retain supporting evidence
From 13 October 2026, providers and agents have record-keeping duties for the relevant stages. Keep inspection findings, photographs and appropriate supporting documents. CAV can request these records.
Verify before move-in
The rental provider must ensure the property meets the standards before occupation. Review what has changed, verify rectification and retain the earlier assessment alongside the later record.
The legal duties arise under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 and the applicable regulations. Read the Act ↗ · Read CAV’s guidance ↗
Victoria / standard residential rentals
The 15 minimum standards.
Use these short summaries as a starting point. The detailed requirements, exceptions and property-specific circumstances determine what applies.
Bathroom
Washbasin, shower or bath, water supply and the applicable showerhead rating.
Read the detailed requirementElectrical safety
Required circuit protection, established by an electrician.
Read the detailed requirementHeating
Working fixed heating in the main living area; applicable efficiency requirements.
Read the detailed requirementKitchen
Food-preparation space, working sink and at least two working cooktop burners; any supplied oven must work.
Read the detailed requirementLaundry
Hot and cold water connections where laundry facilities are provided.
Read the detailed requirementLighting
Usable lighting throughout; appropriate daylight and artificial light in habitable rooms.
Read the detailed requirementLocks
Functioning entry-door locks meeting the applicable locking rules.
Read the detailed requirementMould and damp
No mould or damp caused by, or connected with, the building structure.
Read the detailed requirementStructural soundness
A structurally sound, weatherproof building.
Read the detailed requirementToilets
Working sanitary facilities in an appropriate room, with an approved waste-disposal connection.
Read the detailed requirementVentilation
Ventilation appropriate to the rooms and building type.
Read the detailed requirementRubbish and recycling bins
Suitable rubbish and recycling bins; council-compatible and vermin-proof where required.
Read the detailed requirementWindows
Secure latches on openable external windows and applicable window-locking requirements.
Read the detailed requirementWindow coverings
Operable bedroom and living-area coverings that reasonably block light and provide privacy.
Read the detailed requirementCorded internal window coverings
Safe cord restraints, placement and installation under the cord-safety rules.
Read the detailed requirementCategory summaries: Schedule 4 of the Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021, read with applicable provisions of the Act, including section 70 on locks. Read Schedule 4 ↗
Scope matters.
This guide concerns standard Victorian residential rentals. Rooming houses and some community or specialised housing have different rules. Existing agreements can have different application dates; ask your property manager to check which rules apply to your property.
What the $99 service includes
Inspect. Document. Verify.
A structured initial inspection and findings report to help you understand the property’s position and the next steps.
Inspect the property
Review accessible areas against the 15 categories. Record the checks undertaken and any access limitations. Technical or uncertain matters are identified for further assessment.
Document the findings
Receive a findings report recording observations, relevant photographs, outstanding defects and items requiring supporting evidence or specialist verification.
Plan the next steps
Use the report to arrange required work and obtain appropriate trade advice. Before occupation, review the earlier findings and verify any changes or completed repairs.
What is separate from this inspection?
Repairs, invasive testing, regulated trade work and specialist reports are not included in the $99 fee. Separate gas and electrical safety checks, smoke-alarm duties and other property obligations still apply. Our inspection does not replace appropriately qualified tradespeople.
Common landlord questions
A few things worth knowing.
Do I have to buy a compliance inspection?
You must meet the applicable legal requirements and retain sufficient supporting records. Our inspection service is optional. Its findings report is not a government-issued compliance certificate or a guarantee of legal compliance.
Does the $99 fee cover pre-occupation verification as well?
The $99 including GST covers the initial inspection and report. Pre-occupation verification is a separate stage. We will confirm its scope and fee before it is arranged, including whether a separate visit is needed.
What happens if the property does not meet a standard?
The report identifies the issue or further evidence needed. Arrange rectification or specialist advice as appropriate, then verify the result. Unresolved mandatory items must not be treated as an approved assessment. Repairs and additional services are arranged separately.
Can the inspection confirm electrical or structural safety?
Observable findings can be recorded, but technical conclusions require suitable expertise and evidence. An electrician must establish electrical minimum-standard compliance. Refer structural concerns to an appropriately qualified building professional.
Are more changes coming?
Further energy-efficiency standards begin in phases from 1 March 2027. They cover heating, cooling, hot water, showerheads, insulation and draughtproofing, with different triggers and exceptions. They are distinct from the current requirements summarised here.
Read the official future changes ↗Your next step
Arrange an initial inspection.
Send the property address, your contact details and preferred timing. We will confirm availability and arrangements with you.
$99 including GST · initial inspection and findings report
Enquire with Scott Banks ↗
Or email scott@scottbanks.com.au.
You send the enquiry from your email app.
Independent guidance.
Official sources.
Rental Minimum Standards is independently operated and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Consumer Affairs Victoria or the Victorian Government. Requirements depend on the legislation and the facts of the property. This page provides general information, not property-specific legal advice.
Landlord guide reviewed 15 October 2026. Current and future requirements are identified separately.