Landlord FAQs
Why should I use Victorian Rental Specialists to manage my property?
We provide a premium standard of care focused on protecting your investment and giving you peace of mind.
We don’t just manage properties, we build long-term relationships, minimise risk, and stay ahead of Victoria's current tenancy reforms so you're never caught out. From leasing and compliance to maintenance and communication, your investment is managed with care at every step.
How do I switch to Victorian Rental Specialists from my current agent?
It's simple. We handle the whole process — contacting your current property manager, collecting keys, documentation and tenancy files, and notifying your tenant of the change. No disruption to your property's management. Just a smooth handover.
What are my compliance obligations as a landlord in Victoria?
Victorian rental properties must meet minimum standards before they can even be advertised, and must have current annual smoke alarm checks and biennial gas and electrical safety checks. New minimum energy-efficiency standards begin rolling out from March 2027. We manage all of this on your behalf and keep the documentation in order — not just the checks themselves.
What's changed with rent increases and ending a tenancy?
Rent can only be increased once every 12 months, with at least 90 days' written notice on the correct form. Landlords can no longer end a tenancy at the end of a fixed term without a valid reason. We make sure every notice we issue on your behalf is compliant, correctly timed, and won't be challengeable on a technicality.
How much rent can I expect to achieve?
Rental values are shaped by market demand, presentation, and comparable listings nearby — and right now, that varies significantly between inner and outer Melbourne. We'll give you a straight rental appraisal and honest guidance on where your property sits, so you secure the best return without overpricing and losing weeks to vacancy.
How long will it take to find a tenant?
Well-presented, correctly priced, professionally marketed properties lease fastest. We focus on attracting quality tenants through strong advertising and thorough (and legally compliant) screening — speed matters, but tenant quality comes first.
Will my property be well looked after?
We screen every applicant within what the law now allows us to ask, and conduct detailed inspections at the start, throughout, and at the end of the tenancy — each with photos and clear commentary. Repairs go to trusted, qualified trades, with your approval sought for anything non-urgent.
What happens if the tenant doesn't pay rent?
We monitor payments daily. If rent is missed, we act immediately and in line with the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (Vic) — proactive follow-up keeps arrears low across our portfolio.
What insurance do I need?
As a landlord, you'll typically need building insurance, contents insurance (carpets, blinds, fittings), and landlord protection insurance covering rent default, malicious damage, or tenant abandonment. We can point you toward providers if you don't already have cover.
How are new tenants onboarded?
Every new tenant gets an in-person handover at the property covering the lease, rent payments, maintenance procedures, and their responsibilities under the Act — plus a Tenant Handbook so nothing's left unclear from day one.
What Expenses can you manage on my behalf?
Council and water rates, landlord insurance premiums, maintenance and repairs, owners corporation levies, and other property-related invoices — paid from rent collected, with full visibility for you.
What is a Condition Report, and do I need one?
A Condition Report is completed at the start and end of every tenancy, documenting the property room by room with photos. It's what protects you if the property isn't returned in the condition it was leased, beyond fair wear and tear.
Do I have to allow pets at my property?
Under Victorian law, you can't unreasonably refuse a tenant's request to keep a pet. Once a tenant applies in writing, you have 14 days to apply to VCAT if you want to refuse — otherwise consent is taken as given. We handle that timeline and paperwork for you, and pet-friendly listings genuinely do widen your pool of quality applicants in the current market.
