October 2022 Rental Law Changes: What You Need to Know

On October 1st, new residential tenancy rental laws (under the Housing Legislation Amendment Act 2021) were implemented which introduce several changes affecting property managers, owners, and tenants across Queensland including Varsity Lakes. These aim to improve safety, security, and certainty in the state’s rental market.

Ending a Tenancy

One of the most notable Queensland rental law changes was the process of ending a tenancy. Landlords can no longer cite ‘without grounds’ as a reason to end a tenancy. However, there are new grounds for property owners to end a tenancy including the end of a fixed-term agreement, repairs, renovations, change of use, sale, or preparation for sale. Renters also have new grounds including the property being in disrepair or not complying with the Minimum Housing Standard. Renters can seek assistance from QCAT if there is a suspicion a notice to leave has been issued to them in retaliation for enforcing their rights.

Repair Requests

Gone are the days of living in a literal broken home. Tenants can now apply to QCAT for repairs if routine or emergency repairs are neglected over a reasonable timeframe. Property owners are being held to strengthen repair and maintenance obligations including the premises being weatherproof, structurally sound, free from vermin and mould, and having adequate plumbing, kitchen, and laundry facilities.

Pet Approvals

Australian tenants could always submit a request to keep a pet, but now property owners can only refuse that request by providing one of several approved reasons, such as a violation of rental law or by-laws or if the premises are unsuitable for the pet. Property owners must respond to these requests within fourteen days or the pets are automatically approved. This approval can be subject to conditions, though the conditions cannot include a rent or bond increase.

Planning to rent in Queensland?

Avis & Funk Law can help. The recent alterations to rental law raise many questions and our team of considerate and professional Gold Coast lawyers are more than happy to answer them. Get in touch with us today for any additional guidance.