Compliance and Legislation: What You Need to Know

Over the past two years, a series of reforms under the Residential Tenancies Act have introduced heightened minimum standards for rental properties. These requirements cover areas such as heating, ventilation, electrical safety, privacy, and security. From locks on external doors through to fixed heating in main living rooms, the standards are designed to improve the quality of life for renters while ensuring properties remain fit for occupancy.

Failure to meet these requirements can result in significant penalties. The CAV Taskforce has increased its inspections, issuing infringement notices and, in some cases, pursuing further enforcement where rental providers or property managers fail to comply. With fines running into thousands of dollars, compliance is both a financial and a legal imperative.

Some of the most common areas of oversight include:

• Electrical safety: Properties must undergo mandatory safety checks every two years.
• Gas safety: Properties must undergo mandatory safety checks every two years.
• Heating standards: Every rental property must provide a fixed heater in the main living area. Energy efficiency requirements also apply.
• Bathroom facilities: Adequate ventilation, hot and cold water, and a functional shower or bath are required. Energy efficiency requirements also apply.
• Locks and security: All external doors must have functioning deadlocks or similar, which a person can open with a key from the outside and without a key from the inside.
• Blinds and curtains: The property must have curtains or blinds that open and close, and block light to maintain privacy in a room used as a bedroom or living room.
• Mould and damp: All rooms must be free from mould and damp caused by or related to the building structure.
• Blind cord anchors: All corded internal window coverings in residential rental properties must have an anchor installed to ensure the cords are secured or tensioned and cannot form a loose loop.

At Marshall White, our team guides our clients through each requirement, ensuring your property not only complies but also remains competitive in the market. Renters are increasingly aware of their rights, and a property that does not meet expectations risks prolonged vacancy or reputational damage.

From November this year, it will be an offence to advertise or offer a property for rent — including an off-market transaction — or to enter into a rental agreement if minimum standards are not met. Penalties will apply to those who breach this.

Staying compliant is more than ticking boxes. It’s about protecting your investment, supporting positive tenancies, and ensuring your property is perceived as a safe and appealing home. With the right guidance and proactive management, you can meet your obligations with confidence while maximising the long-term return on your investment.

Image Soure: Project Frith & Howarth