As a tenant in Victoria, your rights include the right to a habitable dwelling, privacy, and protection against discrimination. Renting a property in Victoria can be daunting, especially for first-time renters.
This article will explore your rights as a tenant in Victoria, how to enforce them, and what to do if you feel your rights have been violated.
Whether you’re a new renter or have been renting for years, understanding your rights is essential for a healthy tenant-landlord relationship.
Your Right To A Habitable Home
Habitability And What Constitutes A Habitable Home
As a tenant in Victoria, it’s important to know that you have the right to a habitable home, which means your rental property should provide basic standards of living.
The following conditions are deemed necessary for a rented property to be considered habitable:
- Adequate and safe hot and cold running water, gas, and electricity.
- The structural soundness of the building and its infrastructure.
- Properly working plumbing and sanitation facilities.
- Functioning heating and cooling systems, as well as ventilation.
- Freedom from infestations of vermin, such as rodents and insects.
- A safe and secure building and environment.
Landlord Responsibilities Regarding Maintenance And Repairs
Landlords in Victoria have a legal obligation to maintain the habitability of their properties. As a tenant, you can expect your landlord to:
- Keep the structural elements and fixtures of the property in good repair.
- Keep the property free from any health or safety hazards.
- Carry out repairs and maintenance in a timely manner.
- Respond to requests for repairs and maintenance as soon as possible.
- Obtain any necessary permits required for the repairs and notify tenants of their repair schedules.
Tenant Obligations Regarding Maintenance And Repairs
As a tenant, it is your responsibility to maintain the property, keep it clean, and report any damage or issues immediately.
The following are your tenant obligations regarding maintenance and repairs:
- Keep the property clean and reasonably tidy.
- Minimize damage to the property, and repair any damage caused by your actions.
- Report any damage or defects to the landlord immediately.
- Notify the landlord of any necessary repairs in writing.
- Abide by any rules and regulations explicitly stated in the lease agreement regarding property maintenance.
Your Right To Privacy And Security
As a tenant in Victoria, you have certain legal rights that entitle you to privacy and security in your rental property.
It is crucial to understand what these rights entail and how they can protect you. Let’s delve into your right to privacy and security and what it means for you as a tenant.
Privacy And Security In A Rental Property
Your right to privacy and security encompasses several aspects of your rental property. This can include, but is not limited to:
- Your right to live in the rental property without any interference from your landlord.
- Your right to have peace and quiet in your rental property.
- Your right to privacy in your rental property, including the right to exclude your landlord.
- Your right to have your rental property maintained in a safe and secure condition.
- Your right to know who has access to your rental property and why.
Landlord Access To The Property And When It Is Deemed Acceptable
While you have the right to privacy in your rental property, your landlord also has certain rights to access the property.
It is deemed acceptable for a landlord to access your rental property in the following circumstances:
- In an emergency, such as a fire or flood.
- To make necessary repairs or upgrades to the rental property.
- To show the rental property to potential tenants or buyers.
- To conduct a routine inspection of the rental property.
In any circumstance where your landlord needs to access the property, they are required to provide you with reasonable notice beforehand.
Tenant Responsibilities Regarding Security Measures
As a tenant in Victoria, you have certain responsibilities regarding security measures in your rental property. These responsibilities can include:
- Ensuring that all doors and windows have functioning locks.
- Installing security devices (with landlord permission), such as additional locks or an alarm system.
- Using reasonable care to ensure the rental property remains secure, such as not leaving doors or windows open when you’re not home.
- Reporting any security concerns or issues to your landlord as soon as possible.
Your Right To Fair Treatment
Anti-Discrimination Laws In Victoria
Victoria has some of the most progressive anti-discrimination laws in Australia.
As a tenant, you are afforded protection against discrimination under the victorian charter of human rights.
This means that property managers or landlords cannot refuse to rent to you because of your race, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
If you’re currently experiencing discrimination, there are a number of organizations you can reach out to, including the victorian equal opportunity and human rights commission.
Overview Of Tenant Screening And Selection Procedures
When you apply to rent a property, landlords or property managers may carry out a number of checks to ensure that you meet their preferred selection criteria.
This can include verifying your income and employment status, conducting a background check, and checking your references.
In Victoria, landlords must follow strict screening procedures and ensure that they do not discriminate against applicants when making their final selection.
Income and employment
A landlord may request evidence of your employment status or income to ensure you are able to pay rent on time.
Background checks
A landlord can request a police check, but only under certain circumstances. The application form must provide details of the national criminal record check process.
References
A landlord may ask for references from past landlords and/or from your employer.
The Eviction Process And Tenant Rights During Eviction Proceedings
In Victoria, there are strict laws and processes that landlords must follow when evicting a tenant. Landlords must follow a prescribed procedure.
It includes issuing a notice of termination and attending a hearing at the Victorian Civil and administrative tribunal (vcat).
It’s important to understand your rights during the eviction process, including your right to dispute the eviction notice.
Notice of termination
A landlord must issue a notice of termination. This can be for a number of reasons, such as non-payment of rent or breach of your tenancy agreement.
Tribunal hearing
If the landlord and tenant cannot resolve the dispute, the case may go to a tribunal hearing at the Victorian Civil and administrative tribunal (vcat).
Tenant rights
You have the right to apply to Vcat to dispute the eviction notice.
You can also apply to Vcat if you believe your landlord has breached your tenancy agreement or if you are experiencing hardship.
Frequently Asked Questions For What Are My Rights As A Tenant In Victoria
What Are The Basic Rights Of A Tenant In Victoria?
As a tenant in Victoria, you have the right to a safe and healthy living environment, privacy, quiet enjoyment of your home, and timely repairs to maintain living conditions.
How Often Can Rent Be Increased In Victoria?
Rent can only be increased once every 12 months in Victoria, and tenants must be given 60 days’ notice before the increase takes effect.
Can A Landlord Enter The Rental Unit Without Permission?
A landlord can only enter the rental unit without permission in case of an emergency or to make necessary repairs. Otherwise, they must provide 24 hours notice and receive permission from the tenant to enter.
What Can A Tenant Do If They Feel Their Rights Are Being Violated?
If a tenant feels their rights are being violated, they can contact a government agency such as the residential tenancy branch or seek legal advice. They also have the right to file a complaint or make a dispute resolution application with the RTB.
Conclusion
Knowing your rights as a tenant in Victoria empowers you to protect your interests.
From rental bond returns to urgent repairs, privacy, and notice periods, these rights form the safeguard against unfair treatment.
So, always stay informed, raise your voice when needed, and enjoy a worry-free tenancy.