What are the minimum standards for a room rental in Melbourne?

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Victoria's minimum rental standards specify the baseline conditions a room and property must meet before it can be legally rented. These apply to all residential rental properties in Melbourne.

Minimum standards that must be met in 2026:

Locks: Each external door and window must have functioning locks or latches
Heating: A fixed heater in the main living area (not just a portable heater) — rooming houses must now also meet heating requirements in common areas following 2024 reforms
Ventilation: All rooms must have adequate ventilation — windows that open or functioning exhaust fans
Mould and damp: The property must be free of mould caused by structural faults
Structural soundness: Walls, ceilings, floors and foundations must be in good condition
Plumbing and drainage: Functioning hot and cold running water, working toilet and shower or bath
Electrical safety: All electrical installations must be in a safe condition; safety switches required
Blind and curtain cords: From December 2024, all blind and curtain cords must meet child safety standards

What to do if your room does not meet minimum standards:

Report this to your landlord in writing, requesting rectification within 14 days
If your landlord fails to act, apply to VCAT for an order requiring repairs
You may also report non-compliant properties to Consumer Affairs Victoria

Before you sign: Ask specifically whether the room has a fixed heater, working locks on both your bedroom door and all exterior doors, and check for signs of mould — these are the three most common minimum standard failures in Melbourne share houses.