5 available private houses for rent in South Melbourne

How much does it cost to rent a house in South Melbourne?

The average house rent in South Melbourne is around A$4045 per month. Prices for a house to rent in South Melbourne typically range from A$2715 to A$5866, depending on factors such as location, size, and property features. Homes with gardens, parking, or multiple bedrooms are usually priced higher, while houses in outer areas tend to be more affordable. By comparing listings on Rentaroo, you can see how location and outdoor space affect the price of a house for rent in South Melbourne and choose an option that fits your needs.

What are the average electricity costs for a house for rent in South Melbourne?

The average electricity cost for a house for rent in South Melbourne usually ranges from A$120 to A$250 per month, with higher costs during peak heating or cooling seasons. In South Melbourne, electricity is almost always paid separately by the tenant.

Typical electricity costs by season:

- Off-season (spring/autumn): A$120–A$180.

- Summer (air conditioning): A$180–A$300.

- Winter (electric heating): A$200–A$350.

Electricity costs by heating and cooling type:

- Reverse-cycle air conditioning (heating & cooling): A$150–A$250 per month on average (mild seasons); around A$170–A$260 in summer and A$180–A$280 in winter.

- Electric heaters: A$200–A$350 per month during winter; lower outside the heating season.

- Split-system air conditioning (cooling): A$120–A$220 per month in summer, depending on usage.

- Gas heating (electricity for fans and controls only): A$80–A$150 per month, as heating itself runs on gas.

Main factors affecting electricity costs:

- House size and number of occupants.

- Type of heating and cooling system.

- Insulation and energy efficiency rating.

- Usage habits and appliance efficiency.

When you rent a house in South Melbourne, always check the heating and cooling setup, as this has the biggest impact on electricity bills.

What type of heating does a rental house in South Melbourne have?

A rental house in South Melbourne most commonly uses reverse-cycle air conditioning, gas heating, or electric heating, with the exact system depending on the home’s age, size, and location. Australian houses can have different heating setups, especially between older and newer properties.

Common heating types in houses for rent in South Melbourne:

1. Reverse-cycle air conditioning: very common in newer homes; provides both heating and cooling and is relatively energy-efficient.

2. Gas heating: used in many established houses; can include gas wall heaters or ducted gas heating systems.

3. Electric heaters: such as panel heaters or portable units, more common in older or smaller houses.

4. Underfloor heating: rare, usually found only in high-end or recently built homes.

Typical heating costs for a house to rent in South Melbourne:

- Reverse-cycle air conditioning (heat pump): A$150–A$250 per month on average; up to A$280 in winter.

- Heat pumps (dedicated systems): A$140–A$230 per month, usually more efficient in well-insulated homes.

- Gas heating (central or wall heaters): A$100–A$200 per month in winter, plus lower electricity costs for fans.

- Ducted heating systems: A$180–A$300 per month in winter, depending on house size.

- Hydronic heating: A$160–A$280 per month, common in higher-end homes.

- Electric heaters: A$200–A$350 per month in winter.

- Non-ducted air conditioners (split systems): A$150–A$220 per month when used for heating.

- Solid fuel heating (fireplace or wood-burning stove): costs vary widely; firewood is usually paid for separately by the tenant.

Heating type has a significant impact on comfort and running costs, so always check the listing details on Rentaroo when you rent a house in South Melbourne.

What do you need to rent a house in South Melbourne?

To rent a house in South Melbourne, you need to provide standard identification and financial documents that confirm your identity, income, and ability to pay rent.

Documents commonly required:

1. Photo ID: passport or Australian driver’s licence.

2. Proof of income or employment: recent payslips, an employment contract, or regular income shown in bank statements.

3. Financial evidence: bank statements showing you can cover rent, the rental bond (usually 4 weeks’ rent), and the first rent payment.

4. Rental history or references: previous landlords or agents, in Australia or overseas.

There is no fixed income rule, but landlords usually expect rent to be around 30–35% of your income, which means an average salary is often sufficient.

International applicants may also need to provide a valid visa or proof of right to rent. Having documents ready can speed up approval for a home to rent in South Melbourne on Rentaroo.

Is water usage charged separately when you rent a house in South Melbourne?

Yes, water usage is usually charged separately when you rent a house in South Melbourne, as long as the property meets Australian tenancy requirements for separate metering and water efficiency.

How water charges typically work:

- Mains water connection: most houses are connected to mains water, and tenants usually pay for water usage only, while landlords cover fixed supply charges.

- Water tanks: some houses use rainwater tanks for gardens, toilets, or laundry, which can reduce water bills but may have usage limits during dry periods.

- Separate metering: water usage is charged to tenants only if the house has a separate meter.

Average water costs:

- Typical water usage costs range from A$30 to A$70 per month, depending on household size and usage habits.

Usage limits or water-saving rules may apply in some areas, so always check the listing details and lease terms when you rent a home in South Melbourne.

How old do you have to be to rent a house in South Melbourne?

To rent a house in South Melbourne, you must usually be 18 years or older, as this is the legal age to sign a residential tenancy agreement in Australia. This rule applies to most situations where you rent a house in South Melbourne, whether through an agent or directly from a private landlord.

In rare cases, a younger person may be able to secure a house for rent in South Melbourne if a parent or legal guardian signs the lease or acts as a guarantor.

Always check the lease terms before applying for a house to rent in South Melbourne.