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Issues with your landlord

Learn about the steps you can take if you have a dispute with your landlord (rental provider). We cover what to do if they don’t follow their duties under the law, going to Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV) and the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), and how to make a complaint.

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Claiming compensation

If your landlord (rental provider) doesn’t follow the rental laws or the terms of your lease (rental agreement), you may be able to get compensation.

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Disputing bond and compensation claims

If your landlord (rental provider) wants any of your bond, or compensation, for things such as damage or cleaning, and you disagree, they can make a claim to Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV). You can go to RDRV and dispute their claim.

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Landlord (rental provider) breaches and other notices

If your landlord breaches (doesn’t follow) their duties under Victoria’s rental laws, there are steps you can take to get them to fix the problem and/or pay you compensation.

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Renter breaches

Both you and the landlord (rental provider) have duties under Victoria’s rental laws that need to be followed. If the landlord thinks you have breached (not followed) your duties, there are rules about how they let you know.

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Going to RDRV (Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria)

RDRV is a free service that can help resolve certain types of rental disputes early, without needing to go to a formal hearing at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).

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Going to VCAT

The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) hears disputes between renters and landlords (rental providers). It is not a court, but it can make decisions that must be followed.

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Complaints about rental providers and agents

You can make an official complaint about the landlord (rental provider) or agent if you think what they are doing is illegal or unprofessional. Find out where and how to make your complaint.

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Restraining orders

If the landlord (rental provider) tries to enter your home unlawfully or illegally evict you, you can apply for a restraining order to stop them.

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Disputes involving interstate residents

If you or your landlord (rental provider) live interstate, you can go to Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV) to resolve certain types of disputes. However, if a dispute is not resolved at RDRV, it will need to go to the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria. VCAT does not hear interstate disputes.

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Consumer Affairs Victoria guidelines

Consumer Affairs Victoria has guidelines to make it easier for renters and landlords (rental providers) to follow their duties under Victoria’s rental laws. These include definitions and examples for things such as cleanliness, damage and fair wear and tear.

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