Rental properties across the Melbourne CBD, suburbs and regional centres were visited by our Consumer Affairs renting taskforce today in a pre-Easter inspection sweep to check they are advertised accurately and meet minimum standards.
The taskforce has targeted rental properties open for inspection to make sure they’re safe, secure and fit for renters to move into. Since being announced in March 2024, the taskforce has held inspections in St Kilda, Footscray, Werribee, Fitzroy and Clayton. More targeted inspections are planned throughout 2025.
The most common issues found by the taskforce include mould, windows without blinds or curtains, and heating that doesn't meet the legal specifications.
It’s an offence to let a renter move into a property that doesn’t meet minimum standards. Maximum penalties of more than $11,000 for individuals and more than $59,000 for companies may apply.
Inspections are one part of the taskforce’s proactive approach to compliance. When an advertised rental doesn’t meet the standards, the taskforce works with agents and rental providers before a breach occurs.
Other priorities include making sure rentals are advertised with a fixed price, condition reports are provided, and bonds are lodged with the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority.
They’re also making sure rental providers don’t try to re-let properties after issuing a notice to vacate on the grounds the property was to be sold, demolished or converted.
The taskforce has received more than 500 reports from the community via our online form. These reports, as well as market analysis, help the taskforce to work with estate agents to get upgrades or repairs made so that the property meets minimum standards before a rental agreement is signed.
If you see a rental property advertised that you don’t think meets the minimum standards or doesn’t look like its marketing, you can report it anonymously through the online form.
Learn more about the renting taskforce.