Updated 17 October 2026. Use this Victorian rental minimum standards checklist to organise an inspection, record observations and track follow-up work. It covers all 15 current categories, with practical evidence prompts for landlords, property managers and inspectors.
This is an inspection worksheet, not a compliance certificate. Read the Consumer Affairs Victoria requirements and exemptions alongside it, or download the official rental-provider checklist (PDF). For timing and recordkeeping, see our Victorian rental minimum standards guide.
Before you start the inspection
- Record the address, inspection date, inspector and rooms accessed.
- For every item, record what you checked, the result and supporting evidence. Keep “not verified” separate from “meets requirement”.
- Describe inaccessible areas and any technical question requiring a qualified person. An untested item is not automatically a pass.
- Create a follow-up list with a responsible person, target date and space to record the outcome.
The 15 categories: inspection and evidence prompts
The brief reminders below are not the full legal specifications. The linked official checklist explains the detailed requirements; use the evidence prompts to make your own inspection record useful.
1. Bathrooms
Check basin, bath or shower, water supply and shower-head rating.
Record: Note the facilities tested and keep rating information where available.
2. Electrical safety
Obtain an electrician’s assessment of switchboard protection.
Record: File the assessment with the property record. Do not remove covers or make a technical finding from a photograph.
3. Heating
Check the working fixed heater and applicable efficiency requirements.
Record: Record its location, make and model; attach servicing or product information.
4. Kitchen
Check preparation space, sink, two-burner cooktop and any supplied oven.
Record: Record which appliances were tested and any fault needing attention.
5. Laundry
Where provided, check hot and cold water connections.
Record: Record facilities present and any testing limitation.
6. Lighting
Check usable daylight and artificial lighting.
Record: Identify rooms or passageways needing further assessment.
7. Locks
Check external entry-door locking arrangements against the official rules.
Record: Identify each door separately; record faults or the basis of any exemption.
8. Mould and damp
Check for building-related moisture or mould.
Record: Photograph affected locations, record observations and arrange investigation of the cause.
9. Structural soundness
Check structural condition and weatherproofing.
Record: Record cracks, movement or water ingress that need specialist assessment.
10. Toilets
Check operation, location and appropriate wastewater connection.
Record: Record visible leaks, flushing issues and supporting trade advice.
11. Ventilation
Check ventilation against the applicable building requirements.
Record: List rooms assessed, observed ventilation and unresolved technical questions.
12. Vermin-proof bins
Check rubbish and recycling bins suitable for council collection.
Record: Record both bins, lid condition and any replacement needed.
13. Windows
Check openable external windows, positioning and securing latches.
Record: Identify each faulty or inaccessible window in the follow-up list.
14. Window coverings
Check bedroom and living-area coverings for operation, privacy and light blocking.
Record: Record damaged, missing or untested coverings by room.
15. Window covering anchors
Check anchors for corded internal coverings.
Record: Photograph the installation and flag loose cords for assessment; do not assume a fitted device is correctly installed.
Keep evidence with the report
From 13 October 2026, rental providers must keep sufficient compliance records. Providers and agents need records for advertising or offering a property; providers also need records for move-in. See CAV’s recordkeeping guidance.
A practical property file can group the inspection report, dated photographs, relevant trade assessments, repair invoices and follow-up notes. These are suggested examples, not a prescribed evidence list. Link a repair record to the original issue so another team member can understand what changed.
Keep 2027 planning separate
Energy efficiency changes begin in phases from 1 March 2027. Ceiling insulation belongs in that future planning discussion, rather than replacing one of the current 15 categories. Check the official commencement dates and triggers for your property.
Turn inspection notes into a report
Minimum Standards Check helps you record observations, attach photographs and generate PDF reports. Get 10 free reports per month, or upgrade to Pro for unlimited reports and custom branding. Keep supporting documents with the exported report. The app does not independently certify compliance or replace specialist inspections.
View Minimum Standards Check on the App Store.
Checklist questions
What if I cannot verify an item?
Record the limitation and the information still needed. Assign follow-up rather than selecting a positive result simply to finish the report.
Is a photograph enough?
A photograph can support an observation, but may not establish operation, technical specifications or the cause of a defect. Explain what it shows and keep relevant supporting assessments.
Does completing this checklist certify the property?
No. The checklist organises a record of your inspection. The assessment still depends on the applicable requirements, the property and the evidence available. Seek qualified advice where needed.