Report Rental Property Issues in 5 Minutes
Victorians searching for rental properties are encouraged to use the form to report concerns. The process is quick, takes about five minutes, and can be submitted anonymously.
The form is intended to streamline the reporting of rental property issues, such as:
- Inaccurate Descriptions: Discrepancies between advertised and actual property features.
- False Images: Misleading photos in property advertisements.
- Breach of Rental Minimum Standards: Issues like non-functional kitchens or non-lockable external doors.
Key Features:
- Anonymous Reporting: Maintain your privacy while reporting issues.
- Quick Submission: The form takes approximately five minutes to complete.
- Evidence Upload: Attach photos to support your complaint.
Penalties for Non-Compliance:
Estate agents and residential rental providers who violate regulations face significant penalties:
- Individuals: Fines exceeding $11,000.
- Businesses: Fines up to $57,000.
- Australian Consumer Law: Higher penalties for misleading advertisements or false representations.
Who Can Use the Reporting Form?
- Prospective Renters: Report issues after inspecting a property.
- Real Estate Professionals: Help ensure compliance within the industry.
- General Public: Contribute to maintaining rental property standards.
Importance of Compliance:
Allowing new renters to move into properties that don’t meet minimum standards is a criminal offense. Evidence submitted through the form will support:
- Law Compliance Monitoring: Ensuring properties meet legal standards.
- Targeted Inspections: Identifying properties for inspection.
- Enforcement Actions: Taking action against non-compliant parties.
Supporting Initiatives:
The renting task force, embedded within Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV), is recruiting additional:
- Intelligence Analysts
- Investigators
- Lawyers
Housing Statement Initiatives:
The new reporting form complements the Housing Statement’s initiatives:
- Banning Rental Bidding: Prohibiting all types of rental bidding.
- Rent Increase Restrictions: Limiting rent increases between successive fixed-term rental agreements.
- Rental Stress Support Package: Providing $7.8 million to support tenants in need.
Use the rental property report form to help maintain high standards in the rental market and protect tenant rights.
To access the rental property report form, visit consumer.vic.gov.au/rental-listing.