Disputes with tenants

Disputes between landlords and tenants are not uncommon, but if handled with professionalism and diplomacy, most can be solved expediently.

Most disputes arise over rent increases, repairs and rental bond matters. Initially of course, the property manager acts as negotiator in discussions between the landlord and tenant. If all avenues are exhausted, and the parties have not been able to agree, it may be necessary for one party to apply to the Victorian Civil & Administrative Tribunal for a hearing. The Tribunal is an independent third party which will hear the dispute and make a final decision on the matter.

We, as your agent can represent you at the hearing, preparing the case from start to finish. Preparation may include obtaining quotes and taking photos of the property (in case of bond disputes).  The findings at VCAT are final, and may not always be to you satisfaction, so it is almost always beneficial to try and solve the problem in it's early stages.  There is an application fee to pay VCAT if we are the applicant.  There is also a flat fee of $60 for our attendance for each hearing at VCAT.

Disputes due to a rental increase means that the tenant can contact Consume Affairs to investigate if the increase is warranted.