Do Landlords Need to Supply Curtains and Blinds for Rental Properties?

In Australia, there's no one-size-fits-all rule governing minimum rental standards; each state and territory has its own set of regulations.

Even if your state doesn’t have window coverings listed in its list of minimum rental standards, with laws changing all the time, it doesn’t hurt to have them. If you have older blinds it may be time to upgrade to ones that are compliant with current regulations.

Regardless of local laws, having some type of window covering should definitely be on your radar as a rental property owner. Not only do these treatments offer much-needed privacy for your tenants, but they also boost your property's charm and marketability. With many states tightening the standards, including curtains and blinds may eventually become a requirement for rental properties across Australia.

If you’re catering to families seeking long-term rental options, why not think about adding shutters to the front-facing windows? They not only enhance curb appeal but also help your property make a memorable impact in a competitive market. Curtains are also a great way to add value and elevate the appeal of your home. Available in both sheer and blackout fabrics to suit every rook, these beauties can really elevate the interior decor and create a modern, spacious feel.

For those watching their budget, roller blinds make a fantastic, cost-effective option that tick all the boxes.

Choosing between Blockout and Sheer Curtains for rental properties

When pondering whether to go for blockout blinds or sheer curtains, think about where you want to install them. Blockout options are ideal for bedrooms when privacy and a good night’s sleep are a priority. On the other hand, sheer curtains and sunscreen blinds can provide lovely daytime privacy, especially in apartments near shared spaces like driveways.

There’s no legal requirement for landlords to provide window coverings. However, tenants’ requests for installating curtains or blinds shouldn't be unreasonably declined.

This came into effect with changes to the residential tenancy laws that started on 23 March 2020.
Find out more on the New South Wales Government website.

Landlords in Victoria must offer window coverings. As of March 29, 2022, all intended bedrooms or living spaces need coverings that can be closed, block light and ensure privacy.
Choosing blackout curtains or blackout blinds is a great way to meet these new minimum standards set in 2021. Find out more about the new minimum standards for rental properties on the Victorian Government website.

There’s no explicit law about window coverings, however the Queensland Government website says that the landlord should not refuse a tenant’s request to add fittings and fixtures without a good reason, and curtains and blinds would fall under that rule.

Window coverings are required in Tassie. If a lease started after August 2015, the minimum rental standards state that all bedrooms and living rooms must have curtains or blinds.

Find out more on the Tasmanian Government website.

While there’s no law specifically requiring window coverings, any provided must comply with safety standards, especially concerning exposed cords.

In Western Australia, internal window coverings, like curtains and blinds, need to adhere to safety requirements which state that exposed cords or chains need to be secured to a safety device if it is lower than 160cm from the floor.

Any curtains and blinds purchased after 2004 should have come with everything you need to secure the cord, but if your blinds are older than that, or if they weren’t installed with the chain secured to the wall, it might be time to invest in some new blinds.

All our blinds come with everything you need to safely secure your blind chains to the wall or window frame.

Understanding these requirements and the benefits of adding window coverings can dramatically enhance your tenants' experience while also protecting your investment. Happy renting!