What's changing, and when
Victoria's new minimum energy efficiency standards for rental properties come into effect in phases from 1 March 2027. Some apply when a new rental agreement starts, some when an old appliance fails, and one applies to every rental by a fixed date. The details, including exemptions, are on Consumer Affairs Victoria's site; this is the short version, with the trades you'll need for each.
Cooling: from 1 March 2027, and in every rental by 1 July 2030
From 1 March 2027, at the start of a new rental agreement or when one rolls over to month-to-month, rental providers must install an energy-efficient, fixed cooling system with an outlet in the main living area. Where there's already a fixed cooling system, the rule applies when it fails and can't be repaired. A non-ducted unit needs a rating of 3 stars or more. From 1 July 2030, every rental property must have cooling installed, whatever its lease status.
A split system is installed by someone holding a refrigerant handling licence, and the electrical connection needs a licensed electrician. See air conditioning.
Heating: when the old heater can't be repaired
From 1 March 2027, when an existing fixed heater fails and can't be repaired, its replacement must be an energy-efficient fixed electric system with an outlet in the main living area, such as a heat pump (reverse-cycle air conditioner) rated 2 stars or more for heating. Until then, keep gas heaters serviced: see gas heater servicing.
Hot water: when the old system can't be repaired
From 1 March 2027, when an existing hot water system permanently fails and can't be repaired, it must be replaced with an efficient heat pump or an electric-boosted solar system. See hot water repairs and replacement, including the separate rule for gas hot water in all homes.
Shower heads and ceiling insulation: at a new agreement
From 1 March 2027, at a new agreement or when one rolls over to month-to-month, rental providers must fit water-efficient shower heads (at least 4-star WELS) in every shower, and install ceiling insulation of at least R5.0 by a qualified installer in any ceiling space that has none.
Draughtproofing: at a new agreement from 1 July 2027
From 1 July 2027, at the start of a new agreement or when one rolls over to month-to-month, rental providers must draughtproof all external doors, windows and unsealed wall vents. If the property has gas appliances, a licensed plumber must do a gas safety check before any draughtproofing starts, and the check must be less than six months old when the draughtproofing is finished. If the check finds unflued or open-flued gas appliances, draughtproofing must not go ahead. Check Consumer Affairs Victoria's page for the other cases where it mustn't.
Exemptions
There are exemptions for each standard, for example where heating, cooling or hot water comes from a centralised building system, where heritage laws or owners corporation rules don't allow the installation, where there isn't room for a heat pump or solar, or where the ceiling space isn't safely accessible. Check the full list before you decide one applies.
Discounts that may help
The Victorian Energy Upgrades program offers discounts on approved high-efficiency reverse-cycle air conditioners, including when they replace a gas heater, and private rentals are eligible. Only accredited providers can apply the discount, and if you use your own installer, they must work with an accredited provider before any work starts.
Planning the work
If several standards will apply to one property, one visit for the inspection and quotes saves the renter repeated disruption. Agree access times with the renter, and keep the certificates and compliance paperwork from each trade: the licence guide lists what each trade should give you.
Before you book
- Which standards apply, and when, for each property
- Exemptions checked against the full list
- Licensed electrician and refrigerant-licensed installer for cooling
- Gas safety check before draughtproofing
- Certificates kept for each job
For repairs in the meantime, see rental repairs. Ready to get quotes? Describe the job. Availability depends on real postings, and registration must be enabled to submit.
Official information and further reading
Regulatory requirements can change. Check the relevant Victorian authority before arranging regulated work.