5 Essential Rules Renters Should Know When a Landlord Decides to Sell

With vacancy rates at record lows, securing a rental property has become increasingly tough. So, receiving a notice to vacate can understandably be stressful. But by being informed about your rights, the process becomes much smoother. Here are five important rules every tenant should keep in mind when their landlord decides to sell:

1. The Landlord Can Sell at Any Time

Landlords are legally permitted to sell their property whenever they want, regardless of the state or territory. However, if you’re in a fixed-term lease, the sale doesn’t change your agreement. Your lease remains valid, giving you stability even if the property is sold.

2. Your Lease Stays in Place

Your lease continues to be valid even after the sale of the property. This means you don’t have to move out immediately just because ownership changes. If you’re on a periodic lease, landlords can ask you to vacate with 60 days’ written notice. Remember, a lease can only be terminated early if both parties mutually agree.

3. Inspections Require Advance Notice

For property viewings, landlords must give you at least 14 days’ notice before the first inspection, and all showings must happen at reasonable hours. If you and the landlord cannot agree on suitable times, they can conduct inspections up to twice a week, with at least 48 hours’ notice each time.

4. Your Consent for Photography and Signage

While landlords can take external photos without your consent, interior photographs require your permission, and you have the right to decide what is captured. This ensures your personal space remains respected.

5. Compensation for Renters in Victoria

In Victoria, tenants are entitled to compensation for each sales inspection. This can be either half a day’s rent or $30—whichever is higher. For more information on landlord and tenant rights, you can visit the Victorian Consumer Affairs website.

Additional Victoria-Specific Rules to Note

In Victoria, landlords must provide tenants with at least 24 hours’ notice before a property inspection with a prospective buyer. Furthermore, neither the old nor the new landlord can evict a tenant under a fixed agreement unless the tenant breaches the lease terms, or both parties agree to end it. For periodic leases, landlords can evict tenants with 60 days’ written notice.

If you’re feeling uncertain about the process, Create Real Estate is here to help. Our team can guide you through your rental agreement and offer the support you need during transitions. Visit us at Create Real Estate or call us today for more information on how we can assist you!

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