Rent or buy furniture for your Melbourne rental?
Check what comes with the property, then compare the full cost of renting or buying furniture over the time you expect to use it.
Key points
- 1Check the supplied inventory
- 2Compare the same period
- 3Measure the delivery route
- 4Separate faults from a change of mind
1Start with the inventory
Ask for an itemised handover list before ordering anything.
List the bed frame and mattress separately, along with the desk, chair, fridge and washing machine. Ask which items remain.
Record quantities, existing damage and safe function checks in your condition report. Return it within 5 business days after moving in.
Prioritise a usable bed and study space. Measure the room before adding a sofa or storage.
2Compare the same items and period
Include delivery and what happens when you move out.
Keep possible resale proceeds separate. Have enough funds without relying on finding a buyer.
List any refundable furniture payment separately. Ask who holds it and how deductions and refunds work; it is separate from the rental bond.
| Option | Full cost | When you leave |
|---|---|---|
| Rent furniture | Rent for the full period, delivery, assembly, collection and other agreed charges | Minimum term, early ending, extension and collection |
| Buy furniture | Price, delivery, assembly and later moving or disposal | Take it with you, resell it or arrange disposal |
3Get a written rental quote
Check the term, exact items and ending arrangements.
Ask for model, dimensions, quantity, condition and substitution terms. A bed frame may be offered without a mattress.
Check the billing start, minimum term, delivery point, assembly and collection. Read the costs of ending early or moving address.
Identify the contracting business, payment recipient and who handles faults, damage and cleaning. Arrange a formal end to billing.
4Check access before buying
Compare packed dimensions with doors, lifts and turns.
Ask building management about unloading, lift bookings and delivery hours before agreeing a delivery slot.
Keep the promised delivery window. If delayed, seek an updated arrangement; cancellation rights depend on the circumstances and consumer law.
Check quantities and damage on arrival and notify the seller in writing. For shared purchases, record ownership and how to settle when someone leaves.
5Faulty goods and a change of mind
Keep the order and evidence, and read return terms before buying.
Furniture supplied by an Australian business generally comes with statutory consumer rights. A change of mind usually has no automatic refund right.
Most statutory consumer rights do not cover a one-off private sale. Inspect the furniture and fittings and agree transport before paying.
Follow anti-tip instructions for tall furniture. Check wall type, heritage status and permission rules before installing anchors.
Frequently asked questions
What furniture do I need if the home is furnished?
Ask for an itemised handover list before ordering anything. List the bed frame and mattress separately, along with the desk, chair, fridge and washing machine. Ask which items remain. Record quantities, existing damage and safe function checks in your condition report. Return it within 5 business days after moving in. Prioritise a usable bed and study space. Measure the room before adding a sofa or storage.
How do I compare renting and buying furniture?
Include delivery and what happens when you move out. Keep possible resale proceeds separate. Have enough funds without relying on finding a buyer. List any refundable furniture payment separately. Ask who holds it and how deductions and refunds work; it is separate from the rental bond.
What delivery arrangements should I check before buying furniture?
Compare packed dimensions with doors, lifts and turns. Ask building management about unloading, lift bookings and delivery hours before agreeing a delivery slot. Keep the promised delivery window. If delayed, seek an updated arrangement; cancellation rights depend on the circumstances and consumer law. Check quantities and damage on arrival and notify the seller in writing. For shared purchases, record ownership and how to settle when someone leaves.
Do the same returns rules cover a wrong size and faulty furniture?
Keep the order and evidence, and read return terms before buying. Furniture supplied by an Australian business generally comes with statutory consumer rights. A change of mind usually has no automatic refund right. Most statutory consumer rights do not cover a one-off private sale. Inspect the furniture and fittings and agree transport before paying. Follow anti-tip instructions for tall furniture. Check wall type, heritage status and permission rules before installing anchors.
Sources (checked 2 Nov 2026)
- Consumer Affairs Victoria: Condition reports
- ACCC: Repair, replace, refund, cancel
- Consumer Affairs Victoria: Renters making changes to the property
This is general information, not legal advice. The rental information covers ordinary residential rentals in Victoria. Check which rules cover other accommodation agreements.