Renting a home guide

Your tenancy is governed by the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (Vic), published in its current in-force form on Victoria’s official legislation site. It sets out what a rental provider must do, what a renter must do, and how disputes are resolved.

Consumer Affairs Victoria is the regulator, and its renting section is the authoritative plain-English explanation of how the Act applies day to day.

Consumer Affairs Victoria publishes a complete guide for renters, covering the whole tenancy from application to the end of an agreement. It is free, and it is the document to read before you sign anything.

• Repairs. Urgent and non-urgent repairs have different rules and different timeframes. CAV sets out both, including what to do if a repair is not carried out — repairs guidance.
• Bond. Your bond is lodged with the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority, not held by the agency, and it is returned by agreement at the end of the tenancy.
• Rent increases. There are limits on how often rent can be increased and how much notice you must be given. The rules are in the Act and summarised by CAV.
• Inspections. Your rental provider may inspect the property, but only with proper written notice and within set limits.
• Ending an agreement. Notice periods differ depending on who is ending the agreement and why.

Our property managers will keep you updated through the application process and give you the documents and information you need to secure your next home. If your circumstances change during a tenancy, tell us early — most things are easier to resolve before they become a problem.