At a glance
Victoria’s minimum energy efficiency standards for rentals start on 1 March 2027. Each one is triggered by its own event, such as an appliance failing or a new lease starting.
| Standard | Applies from | Triggered by | What is required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heating | 1 March 2027 | When the existing fixed heater fails and can’t be repaired | Efficient electric heating in the main living area: reverse cycle rated 2 stars or better for heating, or electric ducted rated HSPF 3.2 or more |
| Cooling | 1 March 2027 for new leases; 1 July 2030 for all rentals | Start of a new rental agreement, or a move to month-to-month | Fixed, efficient cooling in the main living area: reverse cycle rated 3 stars or better for cooling, or ducted electric rated TCSPF 3.8 or more |
| Hot water | 1 March 2027 | When the existing system fails and can’t be repaired | Electric heat pump or electric-boosted solar hot water. Gas can’t be replaced with gas |
| Ceiling insulation | 1 March 2027 | New agreement or month-to-month, where the ceiling has none or only partial insulation | R5.0 or better, by a certified installer, after an electrical safety check |
| Showerheads | 1 March 2027 | New agreement or month-to-month | 4-star WELS showerheads |
| Draught-proofing | 1 July 2027 | New agreement or month-to-month | Gaps around external doors, windows and unsealed wall vents sealed |
An existing working fixed cooler can stay until it fails.
Where an electrician comes in
- Before insulation goes in: a licensed electrician must complete an electrical safety checklist and fix any issues within 30 days before installation. We do the check and the fixes.
- Heating and cooling: we supply and install reverse-cycle systems that meet the star ratings, and the circuits they need.
- Hot water: a heat pump needs its own circuit. We do the electrical side and work alongside your plumber.
- Switchboards: older boards often need work before new electric appliances go on. Switchboard upgrades.
Discounts that apply to rentals
Victorian Energy Upgrades discounts are available for rental properties, including replacing gas heating with reverse cycle. Solar Victoria also runs a solar rebate for rental properties. Rebates explained.
Exemptions and records
Exemptions exist where compliance isn’t possible, such as some apartments with central systems, heritage controls or owners corporation restrictions. Keep records showing each standard is met or exempt. Consumer Affairs Victoria has the full rules.
Managing several properties?
Send us the addresses. We check each one and quote property by property, so you can plan upgrades around lease renewals instead of breakdowns.
Sources
- Consumer Affairs Victoria: rental minimum energy efficiency standards, a guide for rental providers
- Victorian Energy Upgrades: heating and cooling discounts
Last checked 1 November 2026. Rules change; we confirm what applies to you on your written quote.