Renters will welcome a new requirement for air-conditioning in rental properties, says Tenants Victoria, the state's peak body for renters.
The Victorian Government announced today, as part of a suite of measures on gas and energy use, that from 1 March 2027 main living areas must have an efficient electric cooling system for new leases starting from that time.
Tenants Victoria Acting CEO Cameron Bloye welcomed the measure, saying that it will benefit renters.
'For too long renters have sweltered in the summer heat with no relief. The new minimum standard for air conditioners will be welcomed by renters, especially on hot days and oppressive nights.'
'Renters whose homes become unliveable for weeks at a time during heatwaves are not getting good value for money on their rent – and also risk impacts on their health. Air-conditioners will mean that life can go on as normal for renters, even when the mercury soars.
'We've spoken to renters who take shelter from the heat in their homes by going to libraries, or even sleeping at friends' houses in order to protect their health.
'If the heat keeps you from getting a good rest at night, you don't function well the next day. The new requirement for air-conditioning will improve renters' quality of life.'
The new air-conditioning standard was announced alongside other changes to increase energy efficiency in rental homes. These include:
- Hot water systems must be replaced with efficient heat pumps at end of life
- Gas heaters at end of life must be replaced with reverse-cycle air conditioners
- A minimum 4-star Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) rated shower head must be installed at the start of a new lease
- Ceiling insulation must be installed at the start of a new lease where there is no ceiling insulation already in place
- Weather seals on all external doors, windows and wall vents must be installed at the start of a new lease
Mr Bloye said he hoped these measures would help renters afford to run air-conditioning when they needed it.
'For renters struggling with the cost of living, it's important that they can afford to run the heating and cooling. New standards for energy efficiency in homes will give them some comfort to turn on the heater or air conditioner.'
