Handing over the task of checking if compliance standards are met in rental properties is best carried out by professionals to ensure the disclosures that Rental Providers sign are correct, their properties compliant and fines for not meeting the standard avoided.

What are minimum standards compliance for properties?

The Minimum Standards constitute a list of basic requirements that aim to keep the property safe and habitable for the renter. The compliance standards are divided into 14 categories. All rental properties must meet the standards for each category. From lighting to gas safety and ventilation, these are the categories as described by Consumer Affairs Victoria.

1. Locks: The property must have every external door secured with appropriate locks or deadlatches. 
2. Vermin proof bins: Rubbish and recycling bins must be provided to the renter. They need to be vermin-proof and meet council regulation standards.
3. Toilets: All toilets must be operational and connected to a treatment system approved by the local council. 
4. Bathroom: All bathrooms must be connected to a reasonable supply of hot and cold water. They should have the necessary features like a washbasin, a shower or bath, and a shower head with a 3-star water efficiency rating. 
5. Kitchen: The kitchen must be functional, with a working stove top and a dedicated cooking area, and have a reasonable supply of hot and cold water.
6. Laundry: If there is a laundry in the property, it needs a reasonable supply of hot and cold water.
7. Structural soundness: The property must be weatherproof and free from major defects.
8. Mould and damp: All rooms must be free from mould and dampness.
9. Electrical safety: All electrical installations and appliances offered by the rental provider must comply with the electrical safety standard by engaging a licensed or registered electrician. 
10. Window coverings: Curtains or blinds are required, to ensure the privacy of the tenant and the blockage of outdoor light, in all bedrooms and living areas. 
11. Windows: The property must have every window that can be opened secured with appropriate locks or deadlatches. 
12. Lighting: All rooms and common areas, including corridors and hallways, must be made functional with proper access to natural or artificial light. 
13. Ventilation: All rooms, including bathrooms and laundry, must meet the appropriate ventilation requirements of the Building Code of Australia to prevent the build-up of moisture and mould. 
14. Heating: The rental provider must ensure that the main living area has a fixed heater in good working condition that also meets the energy efficiency standards.

Engage a professional

It may sound straight forward, however given the importance of this check, it is best to engage a professional as Property managers and most Rental Providers aren’t qualified to comment on whether properties are structurally sound etc.

At Ryan Property Specialists, we work with Property Compliance Victoria who complete the audit and offer a service to Rental Providers to ensure their investment properties meet the requirements for rental minimum standards. Where properties aren’t compliant, we can put Rental Providers in contact with tradespeople to assist.

Contact us today to find out more about how we can assist you with your compliance and safety obligations.