Does My Rental Property Qualify for a VEU Rebate? Landlord vs. Tenant Explained

By Greentastic Pty Ltd

As the push for energy-efficient homes grows in Victoria, more tenants and landlords are asking:
Can a rental property qualify for VEU rebates?
The answer is yes—but there are a few key details that both parties need to understand before upgrades can be installed.

At Greentastic Pty Ltd, we specialise in helping both homeowners and renters access Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) rebates for energy-efficient solutions like reverse cycle air conditioners, heat pumps, solar panels, and electric cooktops. In this blog, we’ll break down how the rebate process works for rental properties, who is eligible, and how landlords and tenants can benefit.

🔍 What is the VEU Program?

The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program is a state government initiative that helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by providing incentives and rebates for upgrading to energy-efficient appliances and systems.

Products supported under the VEU program include:

• Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners
• Hot Water Heat Pumps
• Efficient Electric Cooktops
• Solar Power & Batteries (via other rebate streams)
• Lighting & Insulation Upgrades

🏠 Do Rental Properties Qualify?

Yes. Rental properties are eligible for VEU rebates, but there are some important conditions:

✔️ The key requirement:

Property owner (landlord) approval is required for any upgrade that involves changes to fixed infrastructure (e.g., heating and cooling systems, water heaters, cooktops).

✅ Who can initiate the process?

🧾 What Are the Benefits for Each Party?

For Landlords:

• Increases property value and energy star rating
• Attracts better tenants and reduces vacancy periods
• May qualify for heavily discounted or even $0 upfront installations through accredited providers like Greentastic
• Improved compliance with minimum rental standards (as per Residential Tenancies Act)

For Tenants:

• Lower energy bills
• Improved comfort, especially in extreme temperatures
• Safer, healthier appliances (especially when replacing gas heaters or outdated units)

📋 How the Approval & Installation Process Works

1. Initial Assessment
   Greentastic conducts a property check (can be initiated by tenant, landlord, or agent).
2. Permission Secured
   If a tenant initiates the process, we help secure written consent from the landlord or agent before proceeding.
3. VEU Eligibility Confirmed
   We confirm whether the property meets the VEU criteria for the selected upgrade.
4. Installation Scheduled
   Upon approval, our licensed team installs the system. Most jobs are completed in 1–2 days.
5. Rebate Claimed
   Greentastic handles all VEU paperwork—no hassle for the property owner or tenant.

🔒 Is There Any Cost Involved?

In many cases, VEU rebates cover the majority or full cost of eligible products. However, the final out-of-pocket cost (if any) depends on:

• The type of upgrade
• Existing infrastructure
• Regional location (some rebates vary slightly across Victoria)

💡 Tip: At Greentastic, we aim to offer $0 upfront installation options wherever possible—especially for eligible heat pump and air conditioner upgrades.

⚖️ What Does the Law Say? (As of 2025)

According to Consumer Affairs Victoria, landlords are required to:

• Ensure rental properties meet minimum energy efficiency standards, including heating.
• Not unreasonably refuse energy efficiency improvements requested by tenants if they are at no cost to the landlord (e.g., if 100% rebated).

📖 Reference: Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (VIC), Sections 68-72

🛠️ Common VEU-Approved Upgrades in Rentals

• ✅ Split System Air Conditioners (Reverse Cycle)
• ✅ Hot Water Heat Pumps (200L or 270L)
• ✅ Efficient Cooktops (Induction or Electric)
• ✅ LED Lighting & Draft Sealing

🏁 Final Thoughts: Collaborate for a Greener Home

Whether you’re a tenant looking for more comfort, or a landlord upgrading your investment, the VEU rebate program is a win–win.
At Greentastic Pty Ltd, we make the process simple, affordable, and compliant.

📞 Ready to Upgrade Your Rental Property?

Greentastic can help you check eligibility, handle approvals, and install VEU-approved systems with minimal disruption.

📲 Call us on 0485 952 870
📧 Email: info@greentastic.com.au
🌐 Visit: www.greentastic.com.au

Greentastic Pty Ltd – Empowering Melbourne Rentals with Sustainable Solutions
Electrify your home. Reduce your bills. Upgrade with confidence.