Can renters install secondary glazing in Victoria?
Quick answer: Yes, with the rental provider's consent, which they can't unreasonably refuse. Consumer Affairs Victoria lists changes that keep a home at a comfortable temperature or cut energy bills, and changes that don't permanently alter the property, as ones a rental provider must not unreasonably refuse. You may need to remove the panels and steel strip and make good when you leave.
What the rules actually say
Victoria's renting laws split changes into two groups (Consumer Affairs Victoria, "Renters making changes to the property"):
- No permission needed: a short list that includes non-permanent window film for insulation, reduced heat transfer or privacy, curtains, LED bulbs and a few others.
- Permission needed, but it can't be unreasonably refused: draughtproofing (weather seals, gap filling around windows and doors), flyscreens, and changes that don't permanently alter the property or that help keep the home at a comfortable temperature or reduce energy bills.
Magnetic secondary glazing isn't named on either list. It sits closest to the second group: it saves energy and nothing is drilled, but the steel strip is stuck to the window frame. So the safe path is to ask in writing first.
How to ask
- Email your rental provider or agent before you order. Say it's removable magnetic secondary glazing for insulation, that nothing is drilled, and that you'll remove it and make good at the end of the lease.
- Attach a link to this page or a photo of a fitted panel.
- Keep the reply. If you think consent has been unreasonably refused, you can apply to VCAT.
When you move out
Under the rules for consented changes, you generally have to restore the property to how it was, allowing for fair wear and tear, unless the rental provider agrees otherwise. Lift the panels off, peel the steel strip slowly (warm it with a hair dryer if the adhesive is stubborn) and clean any residue. Test a short piece of strip on painted frames first, because some paint lifts with strong adhesive.
This is general information from Consumer Affairs Victoria, not legal advice. Rules differ in other states. In Tasmania, check with Consumer, Building and Occupational Services.
Questions
Do I need my landlord's permission for secondary glazing in Victoria?
Yes, ask first. Changes that help keep the home at a comfortable temperature or reduce energy bills, and that don't permanently alter the property, can't be unreasonably refused.
Can renters put window film on windows in Victoria?
Yes. Non-permanent window film for insulation, reduced heat transfer or privacy is on Consumer Affairs Victoria's list of changes renters can make without permission.
What if my rental provider says no?
If you think the refusal is unreasonable, you can apply to VCAT. Keep your request and their reply in writing.
Do I have to remove secondary glazing when I move out?
Usually yes. Remove the panels and steel strip and make good, unless your rental provider agrees in writing that they can stay.
Will the steel strip damage the window frame?
On clean aluminium or sound paint it peels off cleanly in most cases. Test a short piece first on painted timber frames.