Security, Locks & Safety in Victorian Rentals

As a renter in Victoria, ensuring your home is secure is crucial for your peace of mind. Understanding your rights and responsibilities related to locks, keys, and security is essential. This guide provides step-by-step assistance with handling security concerns, lock changes, and safety obligations in Victoria.

Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities

Under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997, both landlords and tenants have specific rights and responsibilities concerning security and safety.

• Landlords must supply and maintain locks or security devices necessary to keep the premises secure.
• Tenants are responsible for maintaining any security devices they have installed and ensuring locks are not changed without permission.

Changing Locks

Tenants can only change locks with their landlord's consent unless it is to ensure immediate safety. Always provide a copy of any new key to the landlord unless a tribunal orders otherwise.

What to Do If Security Is Compromised

If you feel the security of your rental property has been compromised, here are the steps to follow:

1. Communicate with your landlord: Notify them in writing about the issue and request necessary changes.
2. Request repairs: Use the official Repairs Request form to formalize your request, ensuring to describe the issue thoroughly.
3. Seek an urgent repair: If the matter is urgent, consult Consumer Affairs Victoria for guidance on your options.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you encounter issues with your rental agreement or feel your rights have been violated, assistance is available:

• Consumer Affairs Victoria – For guidance on tenant rights and responsibilities.
• Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) – To resolve disputes between tenants and landlords.
• Community Legal Centres – They offer free legal advice to renters facing difficulties.

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1. What should I do if my landlord refuses to change the lock after a burglary? Contact Consumer Affairs Victoria for advice, and if necessary, apply to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) to request an order for lock changes.
2. Can tenants install security systems? Yes, with the landlord's consent, tenants can install security systems at their own expense. Discuss this with your landlord before proceeding.
3. How to request a repair? Use the official Repairs Request form to notify your landlord and, if necessary, escalate the request to Consumer Affairs Victoria if there is no response.

1. How to change locks legally in Victoria?
   1. Obtain landlord's consent.
   2. Hire a professional locksmith if necessary.
   3. Provide a copy of the new key to the landlord.
2. How to request urgent repairs for locks?
   1. Notify the landlord immediately in writing.
   2. If there's no response, contact Consumer Affairs Victoria.

Key Takeaways

• Always communicate any security concerns to your landlord promptly.
• Use official forms to request repairs or changes to improve security.
• Know your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 to ensure your safety and security in the rental property.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act 1997
2. Repairs Request form
3. Consumer Affairs Victoria
4. Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT)

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