Critical Victorian Property Management Law Gets Much-Needed Revamp

Legislation governing the way notices are issued under the Residential Tenancies Act is in line for an update in the coming months.

The Victorian legislation requiring a notice of entry be given to tenants by electronic communication is due to be clarified, confirming notices can be sent electronically.

REIV CEO Enzo Raimondo said that the important clarification, currently before Parliament, would be beneficial to all stakeholders.

“Mail can be delayed, which puts tenants at risk,” Mr Raimondo said. “This clarification gives certainty to all parties, and will enable greater communication between stakeholders.

“Timely and effective communication between tenants, property managers and landlords will go a long way towards improving these important relationships.”

Given changes to Australia Post’s mail service earlier this year - which has added considerably to postal delivery times - the REIV believes electronic delivery of notices will improve communication between key stakeholders.

“The clarification is a positive one for all parties, including tenants. An email allows for a ‘read receipt’ to ensure that the notification is received.

“With a posted letter, it is far more difficult to know whether it has reached its intended destination,” he said.

“The update is long overdue and the Victorian Government’s move to clarify the legislation is definitely welcomed by industry.”