What Tenants Need to Know About Victoria’s New Rental Standards
Victoria’s incoming rental standards are set to transform the experience of renting, making it possible to return to a cool, comfortable living room on a sweltering summer day—without dreading your next electricity bill. These important changes for renters in Victoria will help tenants: Vic Gov press release (June 2024)
· Enjoy healthier indoor environments, reducing damp and mould—home comfort solutions
· Slash energy bills by improving insulation, cooling, and hot water systems—energy efficient homes Victoria
· Feel safer with corded blind anchors and modern electrical safety—rental property safety standards
· Live in properties designed to keep them warmer in winter and cooler in summer
These enhancements prioritise tenants by mandating that all residential rental properties comply with fundamental minimum standards for comfort, safety, and sustainability. For individuals seeking a home energy assessment or rating in Victoria, these updated requirements for residential tenancies and energy efficiency provide a significant impetus to proceed.
Benefits for Tenants
The upcoming Victorian rental minimum standards aren’t just a checklist for landlords—they translate into real, tangible wins for renters:
· Reduced energy bills: Insulation upgrades and energy-efficient appliances can knock hundreds off annual costs by reducing power bills in Victoria & saving on energy costs rentals.
· Better health and wellbeing: Proper ventilation, mould control, and stable temperatures support respiratory health and overall comfort, providing healthier home assessment & mould prevention in rentals)
· Enhanced safety: Modern electrical switchboards, deadlocks, and blind cord anchors reduce injury risks. (rental property safety)
· Increased climate resilience: Homes are better equipped to handle extreme heatwaves and cold snaps. (Victoria weather-ready rentals)
A Breath of Fresh Air in Summer: Cooling Requirements
Keeping cool in Melbourne’s summer heat can be a struggle—especially in older rental stock. From November 1 2025, every new lease and periodic tenancy must include:
· A fixed, energy-efficient cooling system in the main living area (air conditioning for rentals, energy efficient cooling Victoria)
· A minimum 3-star energy rating for that system (e.g., reverse-cycle air conditioner or heat pump) (3-star cooling system rental)
· If a 3-star system is unreasonable (high cost, owners corporation restrictions, or an existing ducted evaporative cooler), landlords must still install a standard fixed cooler in good working order (cost-effective cooling for tenants)
These requirements guarantee tenants a reliable way to beat the heat without resorting to expensive portable units or window fans. From 1 November 2027, these standards will apply to all rental properties in Victoria—ensuring every tenant, regardless of lease date, benefits from effective and efficient cooling. If you’re searching for “best cooling for rental property” or “rental property air conditioning requirements”, this update is for you. Property Compliance VIC
Staying Cosy in Winter: Heating and Insulation
While cooling often steals the spotlight, the new standards also strengthen winter warmth:
· Rental properties must already have a fixed heater in the main living area. After November 1 2025, that heater must meet a minimum energy efficiency rating (2 stars or above) or be upgraded to an efficient electric model. (energy efficient heating for rentals, Victoria heating standards)
· Ceiling insulation is mandatory where none exists, achieving at least an R-value of 5.0 to trap warmth in winter and keep heat out in summer. (rental insulation requirements Victoria, insulation assessment Victoria)
These measures will help tenants stay snug when temperatures drop, reducing reliance on costly, inefficient space heaters. If you’re curious about “how to improve rental insulation,” a professional home energy assessment can identify the best upgrades. Consumer Affairs link
Sealing in Comfort: Draughtproofing
Cold drafts not only make rooms feel chilly—they push up energy use. The new draughtproofing standards require landlords to:
· Fit weather‐strips on all external doors to block airflow without hindering operation (draughtproofing for rentals, Victoria door weather-strips)
· Seal unsealed wall vents and gaps around window and door frames with durable caulking or sealants (how to seal rental property)
· Close holes around skirting boards, floorboards, and service penetrations (energy saving tips for tenants)
Consider booking a “home energy assessment in Victoria” to pinpoint exactly where your rental may be losing energy.
Modern Hot Water and Appliance Upgrades
Outdated water heaters and cooktops can be energy guzzlers. Under the proposed standards:
· At end-of-life, water heaters must be replaced with energy-efficient electric heat pump or solar models (hot water system upgrade rental, energy efficient water heater Victoria)
· Fixed heating systems that fail or reach end-of-life must be replaced with efficient electric heaters (e.g., reverse-cycle split system) (replace old heater rental)
· Portable gas or electric appliances aren’t acceptable replacements (safe heating rental property)
Upgrading to modern electric appliances not only lowers running costs but also aligns with Victoria’s shift away from gas, ensuring tenants aren’t left footing the bill for a declining network. If your property needs an “energy efficient appliance upgrade,” ask your agent about available rebates.
Water Efficiency and Safety Upgrades
Small changes can have big impacts on bills and safety:
· All shower-heads must meet a 4-star water efficiency rating, reducing water use without sacrificing pressure (water saving showerhead rental, rental property water efficiency)
· Corded internal window coverings must be fitted with safety anchors or tensioners at least 1.6 m above the floor to prevent hazardous loops for children (child safe blinds Victoria)
Tenants will notice lower water bills and reduced child safety risks from the moment these standards take effect. For more on “water efficiency for rental properties,” visit our website or book a consultation.
Timeline: Phased Rollout to 2027
Victoria’s government understands landlords need time to plan upgrades. The rollout is staged:
· After November 1 2025: New leases & periodic agreements entered into or created on/after this date
· After November 1 2027: All rental properties (unless unreasonable)
This phased approach gives landlords a clear window to schedule works and helps tenants know exactly when their home must comply. Search “Victorian rental regulations 2025” or “rental upgrades timeline Victoria” for more information.
Property Compliance Council link
What Tenants Can Do Now
While the standards are changing soon 2025, proactive renters can:
· Review the Rental Minimum Standards checklist before signing a lease (rental property checklist Victoria)
· Ask landlords if the property meets the upcoming energy, cooling, and insulation requirements (energy efficient rental property)
· Look for properties already featuring reverse-cycle air conditioning, R-value 5 insulation, and modern hot water systems (best energy saving features rental)
By starting conversations early, tenants can ensure their next rental agreement delivers on comfort and savings from day one. For a personalized assessment, book an assessment with us today.
Tools and Incentives
Several programs help landlords cover upgrade costs:
· Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) offers rebates on insulation, heat pumps, and efficient air conditioners (Victorian energy rebate, energy upgrade grants Victoria)
· Local council grants may contribute to draughtproofing and insulation projects (energy saving grants Victoria)
· Check if your owner’s corporation has bulk-purchase deals for energy-efficient fittings (bulk energy upgrades Victoria)
Tenants can encourage landlords to explore these schemes, often saving thousands in upfront costs—search “rental property energy upgrade incentives” for more info.
Looking Ahead: A Cooler, Greener Rental Market
Victoria’s new rental standards represent a significant step toward healthier, more sustainable homes. For tenants, the message is clear:
· You deserve a home that’s safe, comfortable, and affordable to run (affordable rental living Victoria)
· Your next lease should include modern cooling, insulation, and energy-efficient appliances (energy efficient rental checklist)
· Speak up now to secure the benefits when the changes take effect (contact home energy assessor)
As these standards roll out over the next few years, renters who plan ahead will enjoy cooler summers, warmer winters, and lower utility bills without compromise. It’s an exciting time for tenants—your home is about to get a whole lot more liveable.
If you want help or more information with your estate agent or landlord to ensure you are getting the home you deserve, book a home energy assessment with me through my website today.
Malcolm