PM legislation to enter modern era

Real Estate Institute of Victoria chief executive, Enzo Raimondo, said the proposed changes, which are currently before parliament, will be beneficial to both property managers and tenants.

“The current legislation is no longer relevant. A tenant may now wait up to a week to receive a notice in the post, which is redundant and impractical,” Mr Raimondo said.

“The proposed changes, which would allow notices of entry to be issued via email, will enable greater communication between stakeholders.”

Mr Raimondo said timely and effective communication between tenants, landlords and property managers is vital in improving working relationships.

Electronic delivery is more important now, especially after Australia Post overhauled its mail service, with regular post costing more and becoming slower, the REIV said.

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

“With a posted letter, it is far more difficult to know whether it has reached its intended destination. The changes are long overdue and the Victorian government’s move to amend the legislation is definitely welcomed by industry.”