New laws in Victoria around mould in rental properties – what you need to know

New laws in Victoria around mould in rental properties – what you need to know

Have you started to find more mushrooms around the place than in that secret level of Mario? Is the bathroom starting to feel like you're living in the upside down?

This article is part of an ongoing series produced by RMIT's Student Legal Service to provide RMIT students with tips and advice around renting in Victoria.

 

Mould in rental properties is a really problematic and far too common issue. 

Thankfully some new laws in Victoria should make life a little easier for renters.

We’re going to keep this dry (get it, because mould is caused by damp #lolz #dadjoke #sorryaboutthat) – because if you have mould in a rental property we recommend you get in touch for a chat through the rules – despite being improved they can still be a bit tricky.

A few of the new rules to be aware of include:

  • Your rental provider is now required to disclose if there has been any repair notice for mould or damp related to the building structure in the last 3 years;

  • All properties must meet minimum standards for ventilation;

  • Any mould caused by, or related to, the building structure is also considered part of the new minimum standards; 

  • If the mould is a result of the property not meeting minimum standards then it can be treated as an urgent repair and should be fixed as soon as possible;

  • We can help talk you through the urgent repair process.

 

Our besties at Tenants Victoria have a useful guide to mould and also run a mould clinic in winter for renters on a limited income (this link often disappears when the sun returns).

Need help?

If you’d like help from us make an enquiry with the RMIT Student Legal Service. It’s 100% free and confidential. 

Text And Media Video

Learn more about renting and accommodation

RMIT student Brittney shares her tips for finding accommodation in Melbourne and surrounds.

18 July 2022

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RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.