Victoria Rental Minimum Standards in 2026: What Renters and Landlords Need to Know

Victoria has some of the strictest rental laws in Australia, and in 2026 there are several important minimum standards that rental providers and renters should be aware of.

These rules are designed to ensure rental properties are safe, functional and suitable for everyday living. If a property does not meet the minimum standards, renters may request urgent repairs or even end the agreement before moving in.

What Are Victoria’s Rental Minimum Standards?

Minimum standards are the legal requirements rental properties must meet before being rented out in Victoria. These standards apply to:
• houses
• apartments
• units
• rooming houses

As of 2026, rental providers must ensure properties meet the standards BEFORE advertising the property, not just before the renter moves in.

Heating Requirements

All rental properties must have a fixed heater in the main living area.

For rooming houses, each resident bedroom must also have a fixed heater.

The Victorian Government has also announced further energy efficiency standards that will gradually begin from 2027, including requirements for more efficient electric heating systems when older systems fail.

Kitchen Requirements

A rental property kitchen must include:
• a dedicated food preparation area
• a sink with hot and cold water
• a working stovetop
• a working oven

The kitchen must also be connected to a reasonable electricity or gas supply.

Bathroom Requirements

Bathrooms must contain:
• a sink
• a shower or bath
• hot and cold water

Showers are generally required to have water-efficient shower heads unless exemptions apply due to the age of the property.

Safety Standards

Victorian rental properties must meet several important safety requirements including:
• modern switchboards with circuit breakers
• electrical safety switches
• working locks on external doors
• latches on external windows
• functioning smoke alarms

Rental providers must also arrange:
• electrical safety checks every 2 years
• gas safety checks every 2 years (if gas appliances exist)
• annual smoke alarm safety checks

New Blind Cord Safety Rules

From 1 December 2025, all internal blind and curtain cords in Victorian rental properties must be secured with child safety anchors so loose loops cannot form.

This rule applies even to older properties and non-compliance may result in significant penalties.

Ventilation, Mould and Vermin

Rental properties must have adequate ventilation in all habitable rooms, bathrooms, laundries and toilets. Rental providers are also responsible for:
• treating mould related to the building structure
• managing pest infestations
• providing vermin-proof rubbish bins that meet council standards

What Happens if a Property Does Not Meet Minimum Standards?

If a property fails to meet minimum standards:
• renters can request urgent repairs
• renters may delay moving in
• renters may end the agreement before moving in under certain circumstances

Consumer Affairs Victoria recommends checking the property carefully before signing or moving in.

Final Thoughts

Victoria’s rental laws continue to evolve, with increasing focus on safety, energy efficiency and renter protections. Both renters and landlords should stay updated to ensure properties remain compliant and safe.

For the latest official information, visit:
Consumer Affairs Victoria Rental Standards

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