Renting out your Melbourne property: a landlord's guide

1. Make sure the property meets minimum standards

Rental properties in Victoria must meet rental minimum standards before a renter moves in. They cover things like a working toilet, kitchen and laundry facilities, heating in the main living area, locks, window coverings, ventilation, structural soundness and freedom from mould and damp. Check the full list on Consumer Affairs Victoria before you advertise.

2. Set the rent and advertise

Rental properties must be advertised at a fixed price, and landlords and agents can't ask for or encourage offers above it ("rental bidding"). A rental appraisal based on recently leased comparable properties helps you set a realistic rent.

3. Bond, lease and condition report

In most cases the bond can't be more than one month's rent, and it must be lodged with the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA) within 10 business days of receiving it (renters can also choose to pay it straight to the RTBA). From 13 October 2026, if you plan to claim on the bond you must tell the renter in advance and provide evidence. Renters can't be charged fees for applications or for paying rent. Give the renter a condition report before they move in; it's the main evidence of the property's condition if there is a dispute at the end of the lease.

4. Safety checks and repairs

Rental providers must arrange electrical and gas safety checks every two years (where the property has gas), keep smoke alarms working, and fix urgent repairs promptly. From 13 October 2026 the two-yearly checks apply to all rental properties, and you must keep records showing the property met the minimum standards. Keep records of every check and repair.

5. Rent increases and inspections

Rent can generally be increased no more than once every 12 months, with at least 90 days' written notice on the correct form (the notice period rose from 60 to 90 days in November 2025). Routine inspections are limited and need proper notice. A good property manager tracks these dates for you.

6. Choosing a property manager

Ask any agency who will actually manage your property, how they screen renters, how they report to you and what their fees include. NDL Realty offers 100% principal and director involvement, one dedicated person for your property, and an online owner portal. You can switch your property to NDL at any time, with no disruption to the lease or renters.

Official sources

• Consumer Affairs Victoria – Renting (rental providers)
• Consumer Affairs Victoria – New changes to rental laws
• Consumer Affairs Victoria – Rent increases
• Consumer Affairs Victoria – Rental minimum standards
• Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA)
• NDL Property – landlord appraisals and switching

This guide is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Laws, taxes and government schemes change; check the official sources above and get professional advice for your situation. Melbourne Realtors is a business name of NDL Realty.