Four in five Victorian landlords now rely on real estate agents to identify repair and maintenance needs, as a surge in "accidental investors" fuels growing confusion over the state's rental rules.
New research from the Consumer Policy Research Centre (CPRC), Renting in Reality, reveals that many rental providers - especially those who've become landlords by circumstance rather than intention - feel underprepared and overwhelmed by the legal responsibilities of owning an investment property.
Accidental investors reported the lowest confidence levels, with more than 30 per cent saying they were unsure about their obligations under current rental laws. A further 41 per cent said they had experienced problems navigating the tenant application process in the past year.
Director of Eton Property Group, Jennelle Marden, said many landlords were struggling to keep up as compliance requirements shift faster than ever.
"Many Victorian landlords are confused or underprepared because the legal landscape has changed so rapidly," Marden said.
Property managers say this knowledge gap is leading to delays in repairs, inconsistent compliance, and mounting stress among newer landlords grappling with rising costs.
Safety checks, documentation, minimum standards and new tenancy reforms have added layers of complexity - and owners are increasingly leaning on agents to interpret and manage these obligations.
"With continual updates to tenancy laws, safety compliance, and documentation requirements, it's become increasingly difficult for owners to keep up without professional support," Marden said.
Financial pressure is also weighing heavily on accidental landlords.
According to the CPRC report, they were more likely than other investor groups to experience moderate to high stress about their property.
Rising costs were among the biggest burdens:
27 per cent said they struggled with increasing expenses
24 per cent said managing repairs and maintenance was difficult
13 per cent were stressed by the direct cost of repairs
Despite the challenges, trust in agents remains high. The report shows 88 per cent of accidental investors have a positive relationship with their property manager, illustrating the pivotal role agents now play in overseeing compliance, maintenance and tenant communication.
Marden said property managers were increasingly becoming the central support system holding the rental experience together for inexperienced owners.
"Property managers play a crucial role in easing stress for landlords by acting as the central point of expertise, guidance, and problem-solving," she said.
"We navigate complex legislation, handle tenant communication and emotions, coordinate maintenance and help owners understand cost expectations. We also arrange payments of all outgoings from the rent for owners."
As Victoria sees an influx of new rental providers - many having purchased during a period of rising interest rates, insurance premiums and compliance costs - experts say the need for qualified property managers is only strengthening.
Marden said staying informed and relying on professional guidance is now essential.
"For landlords, staying educated, maintaining compliance, and communicating effectively with tenants via a property manager are key to a successful rental experience," she said. "Understanding your responsibilities and seeking expert support not only protects your investment but also builds positive, long-term relationships."
"An experienced property manager can provide confidence and support, turning what can be an overwhelming responsibility into a smooth and manageable investment," said Marden.
