The Ideal Window for Rental Minimum Standards Checks
- Ashley Miniken
- Jan 14
- 3 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Reforms introduced last November added significant pressure to property management workflows, especially regarding rental minimum standards which now have to be met before a property is advertised for lease.
What this article covers:
Planning rental minimum standards compliance before re-listing
Why lead time for rental minimum standards checks is important
Rental minimum standards for new builds
Urgent minimum standards checks
Planning rental minimum standards compliance before re-listing
Most PMs have defaulted to organising a rental minimum standards check once the current renter (or owner) has vacated, however, they are far more difficult to coordinate once a property is vacant. Access is limited and utilities may not be available when needed.
A rental minimum standards check requires power to be connected in order to complete the testing and temporary connections can take time to arrange and coordinate with trade availability as well as adding potential costs to the agency or owner.
One simple and easy process change can help PMs manage rental minimum standards checks more proactively, allowing properties to be advertised and leased quicker and reducing the number of days a property isn't generating revenue: Book your rental minimum standards check as soon as you receive a notice of intention to vacate from the existing renter.
Booking your rental minimum standards check as soon as you receive a notice of intention to vacate allows time to plan necessary checks and work before re-listing
Why Lead Time Matters for Rental Minimum Standards Checks
Setting realistic expectations around rental minimum standards timing is key. Once minimum standards checks are requested, they are typically booked in and completed within 2-3 weeks, depending on access to the property and how quickly renters select an appointment date and time.
Requesting the check as soon as you receive the notice of intention to vacate increases the likelihood for checks to be completed before the keys are returned while access and utilities are still in place. This also allows you to plan for any required rectification to be completed upon vacation, making the process far smoother, reducing stress and the risk of delays.
What about a newly built property?
PM’s are often surprised to find that newly built properties may not meet the rental minimum standards. While the Certificate of Occupancy will cover the first 12 months before a smoke alarm check is required and the first 2 years before an electrical (or gas) safety check is required, there are no requirements for the property to meet the rental minimum standards before being signed off as a Owner Occupier does not have to meet the same 15 standards currently required to rent a property in Victoria.
Urgent Minimum Standards Checks
We understand the recent rental regulation updates put pressure on owners and property managers, especially when properties need to meet minimum standards before listing. We always aim to accommodate urgent requests, but sometimes timing and trade schedules make this challenging. Thank you for your patience—please know that our team is working hard to achieve the best outcomes for every property.
In summary
Booking a rental minimum standards check as soon as you recieve a notice of intention to vacate from a renter gives you time to plan, schedule, and complete all necessary checks and rectification work with confidence before a property becomes vacant.
By using this lead time proactively, property managers can ensure properties are compliant before listing, reduce the need for urgent last-minute work, and make the entire process smoother for both owners and tenants.
If you'd like to talk to our team about Rental Minimum Standards or have questions please reach out - we'd love to hear from you.
