General tenancy fact sheets
Changes to Queensland rental laws came into effect from 6 June 2024. Further changes commenced on 30 September 2024. Learn more.
Minimum housing standards came into effect for new tenancies (including renewed tenancy agreements) from 1 September 2023 and for all remaining tenancies from 1 September 2024.
These fact sheets have been prepared specifically for tenants and property managers/owners in general tenancies in Queensland: houses, townhouses, units and houseboats. These types of accommodation are covered by the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (the Act).
The RTA has also produced a range of fact sheets for tenants/residents and property managers/owners or providers living in or managing rooming accommodation, caravans and moveable dwellings. These are available on the Rooming accommodation fact sheets and Caravan parks (moveable dwelling) fact sheets pages.
Continuing a fixed term tenancy fact sheet
When a fixed term tenancy ends and the tenant will continue to remain in the rental premises, the property manager/owner and tenant need to decide on the future tenancy arrangements.
Domestic and family violence – information for tenants
Assistance is available for tenants experiencing domestic and family violence in a rental property
Bond refunds for persons experiencing domestic and family violence
When a tenant ends their interest in their tenancy on the grounds of experiencing domestic and family violence and vacates the property, the vacating tenant or the managing party can lodge a bond refund using this form.
Ending a tenancy agreement for managing parties fact sheet
Tenancy agreements can only be ended in accordance with the Act. There are processes that must be followed to end an agreement lawfully, including using the approved form to provide reason for ending the agreement and allowing the right amount of time for the notice period.
Ending a tenancy agreement for tenants/residents fact sheet
Tenancy agreements can only be ended in accordance with the Act. There are processes that must be followed to correctly end an agreement, including using the approved form to provide reasons for ending the agreement and allowing the right amount of time for the notice period.
Entry and privacy fact sheet
The owner/manager must take reasonable steps to ensure tenants have quiet enjoyment of their rented home. This means the owner/manager must not interfere with the tenant’s reasonable peace, comfort and privacy in using the premises.
General tenancy agreements fact sheet
A General tenancy agreement (Form 18a) is the agreement between a tenant and a lessor/agent which sets out the terms that apply to the tenant’s stay in general tenancies such as houses, units and townhouses.
Goods and documents left behind fact sheet - general tenancies
Goods and documents left behind after a tenant/resident has moved out must be returned or disposed of according to a specific set of rules.
Lease break, abandonment and goods left behind
A property manger/owner who believes that a property is abandoned must formally end the agreement before they can take possession of the property and deal with any goods left behind by the tenant. This fact sheet contains information and a summary of how Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (the Act) applies but should not be relied upon as legal advice for specific cases.
Important renting information for natural disaster victims fact sheet
A tenancy agreement does not automatically end as a result of a natural disaster (e.g. flooding, cyclone, bushfire), even if the property is damaged or non-liveable.
New renter checklist – moving in
Renting for the first time can be exciting and there are things you can do at every stage to help make the process go smoothly. Use the checklist below to know where you stand and know what to do before you start looking, when you apply for a rental property and during your agreement.
New renter checklist - moving out
If you’re moving out of your first rental, it’s important you know the processes and steps around ending a tenancy. This RTA checklist can help guide you through the moving out process.
New tenant checklist
This checklist provides you with the important information you should check before and after signing your new tenancy agreement.
Rental bonds fact sheet
A rental bond (also known as a deposit) is money paid by the tenant at the start of a tenancy agreement. It is used as financial protection for the lessor in case the tenant breaches the terms of the agreement.
Rental premises use condition and repairs fact sheet
Both tenants/residents and lessors/agents have responsibilities for residential premises, including the site and facilities in the case of general and moveable dwellings.
Rent payments and holding deposits fact sheet
Payments for rent, deposits and other fees for rental properties in Queensland are covered by the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (the Act).
Renting with pets fact sheet
Tenants are required to seek the lessor’s consent to keep a pet at the rental property. Lessors can provide approval subject to reasonable conditions as agreed with the tenant, or refuse the request only based on specific reasons under the legislation.
Repair orders fact sheet
A repair order ensures that managing parties take action to address repairs to a rental property and its inclusions in a timely manner.
From 1 October 2022, tenants have the option to apply for a repair order from the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) for routine and emergency repairs.
Sub-letting fact sheet
If a tenant would like to sub-let a room in a rental property, they must get written permission from the property manager/owner. Approved occupants should also be listed in the special terms of the tenancy agreement.
Tenancy databases
Tenancy databases are legitimate tools that give lessors a means of protecting their property investments.
Water charging fact sheet
Lessors are allowed to pass on the full water consumption charges (including bulk water charges) to tenants provided all the minimum criteria have been met.