VIC Removal of bee swarm from rental property

[fotog]

A bee swarm has turned up on a rental property and been there for a few days on an outside wall of the residence. The estate agent has sent us a quote to have it removed.

Are the property owners or the people renting the property responsible for the paying the costs to remove the swarm? Looking at close to a weeks rental in costs to remove it.

 

[Atticus]

Here’s the general rule as it applies under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (Vic) and the Renting Guidelines (Consumer Affairs Victoria):

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🐝 Responsibility for bee swarms (Victoria)​

1. If the bees were already present or arrived naturally (not caused by tenants):

• The property owner/landlord is responsible for arranging and paying for removal.
• Bee swarms are generally considered a maintenance issue, not damage or negligence by tenants.
• The owner is responsible for ensuring the property is safe and habitable — a swarm poses a safety risk.

2. If the tenants did something that attracted or caused the bees (e.g., left out honey, nesting materials, or damaged walls allowing entry):

• Then the tenant could be held responsible for costs.
• But this is rare — bee swarms are almost always spontaneous and not due to tenant behavior.