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Compliance Guide

VIC Condition Report Compliance Guide

Everything property managers need to know about condition report requirements in Victoria. Updated for 2025 reforms.

VIC condition reports: the short answer

All rental properties must have a condition report. Use the prescribed form, record disagreements and return it within five business days of moving in. Keep a copy and any supporting photos.

Source: Consumer Affairs Victoria — condition report guidance. Summary checked .

Example of a useful condition note

Instead of “wall damaged”, write “Bedroom 1, wall beside the door: two paint chips, approximately 10 mm each; shown in photos 3 and 4.” Record what you observed, where it is and the matching photo references. Mark an item “not tested” if you did not test it. This is an illustrative example, not an inspection finding.

ConditionHQ helps organise your observations. Check the authority’s current form and instructions for your tenancy; a checklist or software export does not by itself establish legal compliance.

Governing Legislation

Residential Tenancies Act 1997, s35

View full legislation →

VIC Requirements at a Glance

Entry Condition Report

Required at the start; check the official guidance above

Exit Condition Report

Legally required at the end of every tenancy

Bond Condition

Required regardless of whether a bond is paid

Photos Required

Photos not legally required, but strongly recommended for evidence

Standard Prescribed Form

Yes — must use the prescribed Condition Report

Key Details

Prescribed Form

Condition Report

Tenant Return Timeframe

5 business days from move-in date

Photo Requirements

Not legally required, but strongly recommended as evidence for bond disputes.

Bond Protection

Required for all tenancies regardless of bond payment.

Recent Reforms (2025)

What Changed

Major reforms from November 2025: properties must meet minimum standards before advertising. Annual safety compliance checks. No-grounds evictions eliminated.

5 Common Compliance Mistakes in VIC

1

Not using the prescribed Consumer Affairs Victoria template form

2

Failing to provide the report within the required timeframe

3

Not documenting the condition of window coverings and blind cords (new Dec 2025 requirements)

4

Missing documentation of minimum rental standards compliance

5

Not recording the condition of locks and keys provided

Frequently Asked Questions — VIC Compliance

Is a condition report mandatory in VIC?

Yes. Consumer Affairs Victoria states that all rental properties must have a condition report, including where no bond is paid. Use the prescribed form and check the official guidance linked above.

How long does a tenant have to return a condition report in VIC?

Renters have 5 business days from the move-in date to complete the condition report and return it to the landlord or agent.

What form must be used for VIC condition reports?

You must use the prescribed template form available on the Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) website. Using a non-prescribed form can attract penalties.

What changed with VIC rental reforms in November 2025?

From November 2025, rental properties must meet minimum standards before even being advertised. This means properties must be inspected and compliant before listing, creating an additional inspection touchpoint.

Can tenants dispute the condition report in VIC?

Yes. If a tenant disagrees with the condition report, they should note their disagreements on their copy and return it within 5 business days. These notes become part of the official record.

Related Resources

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