Whether you are a new tenant renting out a house or apartment in Victoria (VIC) or anywhere in Australia, you might have some questions or concerns with respect to asbestos. At Asbestos Victoria, we know safety and clear information are what you want when you and your loved ones call a rental home. Let us discuss asbestos disclosure during rentals, your rights as a tenant, responsibilities that landlords should fulfil, and what everyone should learn to remain safe and stress-free.
What is Asbestos and Why Should Renters be Concerned?
Asbestos is a material that was installed in most homes that were constructed even before the 1990s, specifically in walls, ceilings, roofs and floors. When undisturbed, asbestos does not normally present an issue to health. However, when it is damaged or drilled or crumbling, it may emit small fibres which become hazardous after inhalation. It is thus very crucial to be aware of what you are going to be living in prior to moving in or even carrying out any operations.
What is “Asbestos Disclosure” in Rentals (VIC)?
Asbestos disclosure rental VIC means letting tenants know if the property contains known asbestos. In Victoria, the regulations state that landlords must disclose some information about the land to you, before you sign a lease, such as whether their property appears in the loose-fill asbestos insulation register or whether there has been an official inspection result which indicates that a property contains hazardous asbestos.
- When the landlord is aware of the presence of asbestos (either as a result of an inspection or report), he/she is required to disclose this to you prior to the leasing process.
- They also must tell you and repair it in case of asbestos discovery during your residence in that area, which poses a threat to health or safety.
- There’s a loophole: if they’ve never had the property checked, and don’t know about asbestos, they don’t have to organise a full inspection or search for it.
Your Rights as a Tenant Regarding Asbestos
We believe every tenant in Australia deserves a safe home. Here’s what tenant asbestos rights in Australia look like:
- You have the right to ask your landlord or property manager about any known asbestos in the rental before you sign the agreement—and at any time after you move in.
- If there is a formal asbestos report, you can ask for a copy before signing your lease.
- If a property is on an asbestos register, this must be stated in your agreement and entry condition report.
- If you notice damage (walls, ceilings, etc.) that might mean asbestos is exposed, you can ask for urgent repairs. This is considered an “urgent repair” for health and safety reasons.
What Information Must a Landlord Provide?
Rental property asbestos information is about openness and honesty. Here’s what a landlord should (and must) explain:
- Disclose all known asbestos risks or the existence of reports showing asbestos is present.
- Share certificates if asbestos was removed by a licensed expert.
- Tell tenants who to contact and what process to follow if you think you’ve found asbestos in your home.
- If the property is listed on an official asbestos register (like loose-fill insulation), this must be disclosed.
- Landlords must keep properties in good repair—no crumbling walls or damaged areas that could expose asbestos.
Nonetheless, the law does not compel landlords to arrange or finance the examination of asbestos unless they are knowledgeable or even suspect its existence and have it as a health risk. When in doubt, it is always advised that you enquire about asbestos, more so when you suspect that the building is old or is beaten up.
What Are Landlords’ Legal Obligations?
Landlord asbestos obligations and duties in Victoria and Australia include:
- The property must be safe and in good repair for tenants. If asbestos creates a hazard, it must be fixed quickly.
- If the landlord or agent is aware of an asbestos risk, they cannot give you false or misleading info or hide this from you.
- Disclosure is required when dealing with rental properties listed in the government loose-fill asbestos register.
- In case asbestos is encountered during demolition, renovation or repairs, the landlords are required to comply with the safe removal laws and be able to present that the material has been either disposed of or handled safely.
In case a landlord does not warn the tenants about known hazards posed by the asbestos or refuses to diligently fix the damages, the tenants have the right to move on with additional action. This may involve calling the police, making an enquiry to Consumer Affairs to get a repair, or, where there is illness and injury, may involve taking legal action.
Pain Points and Practical Steps for Tenants
Many people feel unsure about what to do if they suspect asbestos. Here’s what we recommend for peace of mind:
- Don’t Panic: Most asbestos in good condition isn’t immediately dangerous.
- Ask Questions: Before signing a lease, ask directly if asbestos is known about and if the property has been checked.
- Look for Clues: Rentals built before the 1990s may have asbestos; look for signs of old or damaged areas.
- Request Repairs: If you see damage, report it to your agent or landlord straight away for urgent repair.
- Get Help: If your landlord won’t help or gives you unclear answers, contact Consumer Affairs Victoria or your local council’s environmental health officer.
Can You Make Modifications or Repairs?
Minor changes (such as hanging pictures) are now permitted without having to ask permission beforehand; however, be cautious. Never hammer or drill into walls, ceilings or floors in case your rental property is old or you do not have a history of it, unless you are certain that no asbestos hazard is involved.
Who Do You Call If There’s an Issue?
What to do in the case of asbestos:
- The first one to tell is your landlord or manager.
- In case you are not satisfied with your problem being addressed, go to Consumer Affairs Victoria.
- If there is an immediate risk, contact your local council’s environmental health officer for help or urgent inspection.
Conclusion: Our Promise at Asbestos Victoria
It’s your right to a safe and healthy home. At Asbestos Victoria, we believe in giving every renter, landlord, and agent simple, honest, and clear information about asbestos. If you face any issues with asbestos disclosure rental VIC, tenant asbestos rights Australia, rental property asbestos information, or landlord asbestos obligations, we’re here to help you get the answers and safety you deserve.
Let’s make every rental in Victoria safe and peaceful for you and your family. If you’re unsure, always ask us—Asbestos Victoria—because your safety comes first.