Queensland has already experienced its share of natural disasters this year with the Townsville floods in February and recent devastating bushfires.

With storm season and further severe weather events on the horizon, the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) is urging tenants and property managers/owners to be prepared for storm season and remain vigilant.

Get Ready Queensland Week between 13 and 19 October is a timely reminder for everyone involved in a tenancy to work together, minimise risks and reduce exposure to and losses in wild weather or disaster situations. Preparation and planning ahead is key for storm and cyclone season.

Both tenants and property managers/owners have responsibilities in repairs and maintenance. Taking time to clear the gutters, remove large overhanging branches around the rental property and clean up yards and fallen branches can ensure you minimise risk of damage and are well-prepared.

The RTA has a variety of information to help tenants and property managers/owners in this process of preparation and cleaning up, including a webinar on preparing for storm season and information on dealing with mould.

Check your insurance policy coverage to make sure your valuable assets are protected. Tenants are responsible for insuring their own contents and property owners should have home insurance and/or landlord insurance.

If your rental property is affected by a natural disaster, our natural disasters fact sheet will help you understand your rights and responsibilities. It answers common questions and provides information around the liveability of a rental property, how to end tenancies and rent reductions.

For more tips and useful information to help you get ready for bushfires, cyclones and storm season, visit the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services website.