Tenant FAQ's

1. How much bond can be charged in Queensland?

For most residential tenancies in Queensland, the bond is capped at 4 weeks’ rent. If rent is more than $700 per week, there is no maximum bond limit.

2. Where is my bond held?

All rental bonds in Queensland must be lodged with the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA). You should receive confirmation once it has been lodged.

3. When will my bond be returned?

Once the tenancy ends and a Refund of Rental Bond (Form 4) is submitted, the RTA generally processes refunds within a few business days, provided there is no dispute.

4. How often can rent be increased?

Rent can generally only be increased:

• Once every 12 months

• Not during a fixed-term agreement unless the agreement states how the increase will occur

5. How much notice is required for a rent increase?

Landlords must give tenants at least 2 months’ written notice before a rent increase takes effect.

6. Can a landlord enter the property without notice?

No. In Queensland, landlords or agents must give appropriate written notice, usually 24 hours, and entry must be for a lawful reason such as inspections, repairs, or valuation.

7. How often can routine inspections occur?

Routine inspections are limited to once every 3 months in Queensland.

8. Who is responsible for repairs and maintenance?

• Landlord’s responsibility: Ensure the property is in good repair, meets minimum housing standards, and that all supplied appliances work properly.

• Tenant’s responsibility: Keep the property clean and report maintenance issues promptly.

9. What are urgent repairs in Queensland?

Urgent repairs include:

• No water, gas, electricity, or sewerage

• A dangerous electrical fault or gas leak

• Flooding or serious roof leaks

• Faults that make the property unsafe or insecure

• Failure of essential services (e.g. hot water)

10. Can I arrange urgent repairs myself?

Yes. If the landlord or agent cannot be contacted, tenants may arrange urgent repairs up to the maximum amount stated in the agreement (or 2 weeks’ rent if no amount is stated).

11. Can I make changes to the property?

Tenants must seek written permission for modifications. However, landlords cannot unreasonably refuse certain changes, particularly those related to safety, security, or accessibility.

12. Are pets allowed in rental properties in Queensland?

Yes. Tenants can request to keep a pet using RTA Form 21. A landlord must respond within 14 days and may only refuse for approved reasons.

13. How much notice must I give to end my lease?

• Fixed-term agreement: At least 14 days’ notice before the end date

• Periodic agreement: At least 14 days’ notice

14. Can I break my lease early?

Yes, but tenants may need to pay:

• Rent until a new tenant is found

• Advertising and re-letting costs
  The landlord must take reasonable steps to re-let the property quickly.

15. Can the landlord end my tenancy without grounds?

In Queensland, “without grounds” terminations have been phased out for periodic agreements (with limited exceptions). Most terminations now require a lawful reason.

16. What happens if I fall behind in rent?

If rent is 7 days overdue, the landlord may issue a Notice to Remedy Breach (Form 11). If unresolved, further termination steps may follow.

17. Can the property be sold during my tenancy?

Yes. The tenancy continues under the new owner. Entry for sales inspections requires proper notice and must be reasonable.

18. Do I need renters insurance?

Renters insurance is not compulsory, but it is strongly recommended to cover personal belongings and liability.

19. What condition should the property be in at the start of my tenancy?

The property must be:

• Clean and in good repair

• Meet minimum housing standards

• Provided with a completed Entry Condition Report (Form 1a)

20. What condition must I leave the property in?

Tenants must leave the property:

• Reasonably clean

• In the same condition as at the start (allowing for fair wear and tear)

• With all keys returned

21. What if I have a dispute with my landlord or agent?

Tenants can:

• Contact the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA)

• Use the RTA’s free dispute resolution service

• Apply to QCAT if the dispute is not resolved