Minimum standards for rental properties

Landlords must provide rental properties that are in a reasonable state of cleanliness and fit for the tenant to live in. The minimum standards set clearer expectations for landlords and tenants and apply to all rented residential properties. To be fit to live in, the property must, at a minimum:

1. be structurally sound
2. have adequate natural or artificial lighting in each room, except storage rooms or garages
3. have adequate ventilation
4. be supplied with electricity or gas, and have enough electricity or gas sockets for lighting, heating and other appliances
5. have adequate plumbing and drainage
6. have a water connection that can supply hot and cold water for drinking, washing and cleaning
7. have bathroom facilities, including toilet and washing facilities that allow users' privacy.

Landlords need to ensure their rented properties meet these minimum standards to be fit to live in.

The property could have other issues that may make it unfit for a tenant to live in, even if it meets the above seven minimum standards. Before the property is rented out, the landlord or agent should take steps (such as making repairs) to make sure the property is fit to live in.

These standards must be maintained throughout the tenancy.