Finding a place to call home is about more than just securing a roof over your head. It's about making a space that feels like your own. However, when you're renting in Victoria, you need to understand what changes you can legally make to your rental property to make it feel more homely without breaching your lease agreement. This guide will walk you through the basics of what you can and can't do when it comes to rental alterations.

What changes can be made without permission#

In Victoria, tenants have the right to make certain types of alterations without needing to seek permission from their landlord. These alterations include:

• Installing non-permanent window film for better insulation or privacy
• Adding a wireless doorbell
• Hanging curtains — provided the original curtains are kept and undamaged
• Installing adhesive child safety locks on drawers and cabinets
• Setting up pressure-mounted child safety gates
• Adding a lock to a letterbox

For more structural and potentially invasive installations, such as picture hooks, screws for wall mounts, or shelves on surfaces other than exposed brick or concrete, tenants can proceed without permission unless the property is heritage-listed.

What if the property is Heritage listed?#

If your rental is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register, additional restrictions apply. You should avoid making any modifications that could damage or alter the historical integrity of the property. For instance, installing screws or nails into walls may be restricted. Always check with your landlord and the heritage guidelines before proceeding.

What changes require landlord permission?#

For more significant alterations, you will need to obtain permission from your landlord. These include:

• Modifications to the structure or external appearance of the property, such as drilling holes or adding fixtures to exposed brick or concrete walls or garage doors
• Installing draught proofing, such as weather seals or caulking
• Adding or changing security systems
• Installing fly screens, gardens, or external structures
• Painting the premises

Can I paint the walls of my rented apartment?#

Yes, but you need to get your landlord’s permission first. Landlords cannot unreasonably withhold consent if the painting is done professionally and the colors are considered neutral or are easily reversible.

Can you hang things in a rental?#

Yes, tenants can hang pictures or install shelves without permission on most surfaces. For concrete or exposed brick, or if the property is heritage-listed, you will need to seek landlord approval.

Can you drill holes in rental property?#

Drilling holes is permissible for securing furniture or installing shelves on non-exposed surfaces without landlord consent. For exposed surfaces, like brick or concrete, permission from the landlord is required.

Can I change the curtains in a rental?#

You are allowed to change curtains as long as you store the original ones and restore them when you vacate the property.

Can I install air conditioning in my rental property?#

Installation of air conditioning units typically requires landlord permission since it involves significant alterations to the property.

Am I allowed to change the locks on my rental property?#

Changing locks also requires permission from your landlord. It’s crucial for both safety and access reasons that the landlord agrees and has a set of the new keys.

Are there any restrictions on gardening or landscaping in rental properties?#

Generally, small gardening and landscaping efforts like planting flowers or a vegetable garden do not require landlord permission. However, significant landscaping changes or alterations that would affect the property layout or appearance (like removing existing plants or extensive digging) require consent.

Wrapping up

While renting, it's essential to remember that your ability to make changes depends on your lease agreement and state laws. Always communicate clearly with your landlord about any proposed changes, keep records of all communications and agreements, and ensure modifications are reversible wherever possible.

Where else can I go for more information?#

Disclaimer: This article is intended as a general guide and should not be considered legal advice.

For more detailed information about your rights and obligations as a tenant in Victoria, visit:

• Consumer Affairs Victoria
• Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT)
• Tenants Victoria

Understanding these guidelines can help you make your rental feel more like a home without risking your security deposit or facing other legal repercussions.