In Queensland, temperatures can drop below freezing in winter, and many of us will use fires, dryers, hot water, and heaters to weather the cold snap. We’ve prepared a simple home safety checklist to help you get ready for winter.

Check your hot water system

To ensure the efficiency of your hot water system, test the pressure and temperature relief valves routinely. This can extend the lifespan of the hot water system and prevent failures. You should refer to the manufacturer’s guide or operating manual on how to safely conduct a self-administered system check. If you are unsure, have a chat with your property manager/owner to avoid causing any damage to the appliance. You should also contact your property manager if maintenance or repairs are needed.

Maintain ventilation in damp areas

Adequate ventilation is important during winter months, particularly in damp and steamy areas like the bathroom and laundry. Tenants should ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and when using a clothes dryer. This could mean turning on exhaust fans or opening a window to prevent mould. Check the ceiling and dryer vents to ensure they are dust-free to maximise efficiency.

Inspect heating systems

Many of us start using heating systems, such as reverse cycle air conditioners, fireplaces or heaters, in the winter months. Make sure your heating system has been inspected and cleaned before use, including filters and chimneys. If you’re unsure, check with your property manager/owner.

Comply with smoke alarm legislation

Property managers/owners and tenants have obligations to ensure fire safety in rental premises. All rental properties across Queensland must be fitted with interconnected smoke alarms to ensure people and property are kept safe. Penalties apply for not complying with smoke alarm laws.

Now is the perfect time to test and clean smoke alarms as well as replace any flat or nearly flat batteries. Be sure to notify your property manager/owner immediately if a smoke alarm is not working, for a reason other than battery failure.

Find out more via the Queensland Fire Department website.

Maintain your lawn and garden

Although lawns and gardens may not grow as quickly in colder weather, maintenance is still just as important in winter. 

Generally, the tenant is responsible for yard work (e.g. mowing, edging and weeding). Refer to your tenancy agreement for any specific terms regarding these responsibilities.

Major work, such as tree lopping or pruning trees and shrubs, is usually carried out by the property manager/owner as part of their obligation to keep the property in good repair. 

Find out more about maintenance of lawns, gardens and trees.

Pool maintenance 

Pools are unlikely to be used during the colder months, but pool maintenance will need to continue as agreed in the terms of your tenancy agreement.

Generally, the tenant is responsible for everyday upkeep such as clearing leaves from the pool, keeping the pool clean, and potentially adding necessary chemicals (refer to the special terms of your tenancy agreement if applicable). 

Ideally, the property manager/owner should provide instructions for any pool upkeep the tenant must carry out.

Learn more about pool laws and maintenance.

Your obligations as a tenant

The property manager/owner is responsible for ensuring the property is fit to live in, in a good state of repair and meets minimum housing standards. Tenants are responsible for keeping the property clean and ensuring they meet their obligations to any special terms in their rental agreement. They must also notify the property manager/owner of any maintenance or repairs needed in a timely manner.

Types of emergency repairs to a rental property are defined under section 214 of the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008. These include works or items necessary for the property to comply with minimum housing standards. 

If an emergency repair is required and the property manager and property owner cannot be contacted, tenants can arrange for emergency repairs to the property at a cost of up to four weeks’ rent. Refer to our emergency repairs page for more details on this process.

Read more about the obligations of tenants and property managers/owners for maintenance and repairs in rental properties.