Login
iscover
A Melbourne rooming house operator is facing charges after allegedly conducting services without a licence, failing to lodge bonds and condition reports.
The director of Melbourne rental accommodation services company, Impactz, is facing charges after allegedly operating a rooming house without a licence.
According to Consumer Affairs Victoria, Impactz director Susan Trinh, allegedly breached the Rooming House Operators Act 2016 and the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.
In addition to operating a rooming house without a licence, Trinh allegedly failed to lodge bonds with the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority.
The watchdog said that Trinh also allegedly failed to complete and sign bond lodgement forms to provide to the renters.
Furthermore, Trinh allegedly failed to provide renters with two copies of the condition report before they moved in, which is required under Victorian law.
Consumer Affairs defines a rooming house as a building with one or more rooms that can be rented by four or more people.
While rooming houses are considered an affordable alternative to other types of accommodation, their residents are often among the most vulnerable.
Consumer Affairs said that Trinh and her company primarily dealt with international students and workers, who were particularly vulnerable.
The renters included those living in a foreign country away from family and support networks, and who may have found it more difficult to voice a complaint.
“Operating a rooming house without a licence is a serious criminal offence with significant penalties,” Consumer Affairs said.
It said that there are currently 1,710 registered rooming houses and 1,319 licensed rooming house operators in the state, warning renters to be aware of their rights.
“If you’re concerned a rooming house does not meet the minimum standards, you can report it. If your concern is about health standards, contact your local council,” it concluded.
You are not authorised to post comments.
Comments will undergo moderation before they get published.