Best Practice

Implementing best practice in a rooming house isn’t just about ticking compliance boxes—it’s about creating a thriving, sustainable operation that benefits residents, operators, and the broader community. Here’s a breakdown of the key advantages:

Benefits of Best Practice in Rooming House Management

1. Enhanced Resident Wellbeing

  • Safer, cleaner, and more respectful living conditions
  • Reduced conflict and improved mental health outcomes
  • Greater trust and satisfaction among residents

2. Regulatory Protection

  • Fewer breaches, fines, and legal disputes
  • Stronger relationships with council and Consumer Affairs Victoria
  • Easier navigation of audits and inspections

3. Operational Efficiency

  • Clear systems for onboarding, maintenance, and dispute resolution
  • Lower staff turnover and better team morale
  • Predictable workflows and reduced emergency repairs

4. Financial Sustainability

  • Higher occupancy rates through reputation and referrals
  • Reduced vacancy and damage-related costs
  • Access to better insurance rates and financing options (RAAV members benefit here)

5. Community & Reputation

  • Improved neighbourhood relations and reduced complaints
  • Recognition as a responsible housing provider
  • Ability to influence policy and advocate for sector improvements

6. Scalability & Investment Appeal

  • Easier to replicate successful models across multiple properties
  • Increased investor confidence and long-term viability
  • Alignment with ethical investment trends and social impact goals

RAAV actively promotes these benefits through training, peer support, and advocacy.

While much of RAAV’s Best Practice program is covered on our website, there is further information available in our publication, Running a better rooming house: A best practice handbook for operators, which includes further information including sections on:

  • The business of running a rooming house
  • Selecting and maintaining managers and residents
  • Student accommodation rooming houses
  • Handling disputes
  • Helping residents access support services

A PDF copy of the handbook can be accessed at RAAV Publications, or members can request a hard copy by emailing info@raav.org.au. Members also have free access to our online e-learning training modules based on the handbook in our Courses section.