Managing a rental property in Victoria comes with an evolving set of responsibilities, with several changes to rental laws already introduced and another round of reforms taking effect from October 2026.
For rental providers, staying informed is an important part of protecting an investment and ensuring a property continues to meet its obligations. From applications and notice periods to minimum standards and safety checks, there’s more to keep across than ever.
At Nelson Alexander, we’ve been working with our rental providers as these reforms have rolled out, providing guidance along the way and preparing for the requirements still to come.
What has already changed for Victorian rental properties?
Several significant changes have already come into effect over the past year.
No-fault evictions have been removed, meaning rental providers must have a valid reason to issue a notice to vacate. Notice periods have also increased from 60 to 90 days for rent increases and certain notices to vacate.
Rental bidding has been further restricted, while minimum standards now apply from the time a property is advertised and annual smoke alarm checks are required across all rental properties.
Since March 2026, a standard rental application form must also be used, with clearer rules around the information that can be requested from prospective renters and how their personal information is handled.
What’s changing for rental providers from October 2026?
From 13 October 2026, another round of changes will come into effect for Victorian rental properties.
Rental providers will need to keep records showing that their property met the required minimum standards when it was advertised or offered for rent.
Gas and electrical safety checks will also be required every two years for all rental properties, including rental agreements that began before the new requirements took effect.
The bond claim process is changing too. Rental providers will need to notify renters in advance when making a claim at the end of a rental agreement and provide evidence to support that claim.
Further changes include a ban on rental providers and agents charging rental application fees, along with additional gas safety requirements where certain draughtproofing work is being undertaken.
Be prepared for minimum energy efficiency standards from March 2027
The Victorian Government is introducing a new phase of energy efficiency requirements for rental properties from 1 March 2027, aimed at improving renter comfort, reducing energy consumption and lowering household running costs.
These changes will include new requirements around heating, cooling, hot water systems, shower heads, ceiling insulation and draughtproofing of external doors and windows.
From 1 March 2027, some of the key changes include new cooling and ceiling insulation requirements for new rental agreements, while eligible hot water systems requiring replacement will need to be replaced with an energy-efficient electric option, such as a heat pump or electric-boosted solar water heater.
With March approaching and trades likely to become increasingly busy, now is a good time to understand what may be required at your property and begin preparing. Speak with your property manager or visit Consumer Affairs Victoria for further information on these upcoming changes.
Keeping your investment on track
Property management has changed considerably over the years, and staying on top of legislation is now a fundamental part of managing a rental property well.
For our rental providers, that means having a team keeping an eye on what’s changing, what’s coming next and what may need attention across their property.
If you’ve been considering renting out your property, now is a good time to understand what’s involved. Start by requesting an obligation-free rental quote, and your local Nelson Alexander team will guide you through everything from preparing your property for market and understanding your responsibilities to finding the right renter and managing your investment day-to-day.
You can find the latest information, key dates and guidance on Victoria’s rental law changes through Consumer Affairs Victoria.
