Whether you’re a landlord or tenant, it can sometimes be difficult to know exactly what your rights are when it comes to renting or owning an investment property. By having a clear idea of what you can and can’t do, it will make for a better relationship between landlord and tenant so that you can both work together to keep the property in check. 

At Release Property Management, we represent the landlord and the tenant, ensuring you’re both protected and have a pleasant experience leasing and living in the property. As Property Managers, we have a range of FAQs from tenants and landlords. Therefore, we’re sharing everything you need to know, whether you’re a landlord or tenant below. 

Can my landlord enter my property?  

As a tenant, because you don’t own the property, your landlord reserves the right to enter the property. However, there are some rules and regulations around this to protect the privacy of the tenant. A landlord must give the tenant notice prior to entering the property. If no notice is given, then this would be an illegal offence. The property managers at Release Property Management can assist with working out an entry agreement between you and your tenant. 

When can a landlord inspect my property?

In Victoria, a landlord has the right to inspect their property a maximum of once every 6 months. However, at Release Property Management, our property managers will organise their first routine inspection within the first 3 months of a new tenancy.  During the inspections, the landlord or Property Manager may choose to take photos; with the tenants consent, ensuring we don’t take photos of any personal items.  The landlord must also carry out the inspection in a reasonable manner and only stay for the necessary amount of time to do what is required. 

What should a landlord provide in an unfurnished property?

When a property is listed as unfurnished, this doesn’t mean that it can be completely empty and there are some fixtures a landlord must provide to make the property liveable. These include kitchen fixtures such as a stovetop and oven, rangehood, curtains or blinds, carpet (if no tiles or floorboards). They aren’t required to provide a microwave, fridge, washing machine, dryer or dishwasher, however these things may be included in the rental agreement for some properties. 

When can a landlord enter a property?

In Victoria, the landlord can enter the property between 8:00am and 6:00pm on any day except for public holidays. If when the landlord arrives at the property the tenant is home, they must let the landlord in if enough notice has been given or an agreement decided. If the landlord wishes to enter the property outside the hours of 8:00am and 6:00pm or if the resident is not home between those hours, they must receive written notice from the tenant. Following this process will help avoid any disputes and instead help maintain a good tenant-landlord relationship.

Can a landlord evict a tenant to sell the property?

Yes, landlords reserve the right to evict a tenant to sell the property; however, appropriate notice must be given. If there is a fixed agreement in place such as a 6 month or 12-month lease, the landlord cannot evict the tenant before the end of term unless mutually agreed or if the tenant has violated the terms of lease.  If the agreement is periodic, landlords have the right to evict tenants on 60 days written notice. In both circumstances, landlords must provide tenants with 24 hours’ notice before showing around a prospective buyer. 

Can a landlord gain access to property without permission? 

No, a landlord cannot gain access to a property without permission. Even though they own the property, this is an illegal offence. Its best to discuss your entry requirements with your property manager.

Still have questions? If you’d like more information about tenant or landlord rights in Geelong, please get in touch with the team at Release Property Management on 1300 853 857.