Minimum housing standards for Queensland rentals come into effect

New minimum housing standards will apply to all residential tenancies across Queensland from Sunday, 1 September 2024, providing greater clarity on the expected condition of rental properties.

The standards, which go beyond the existing requirement for rentals to be fit for habitation and well-maintained, specify detailed safety, security, and functionality measures that must be met.

Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) CEO Antonia Mercorella welcomed the introduction of the standards, calling them a win-win for all parties involved in tenancy relationships.

“These minimum housing standards set a reasonable benchmark for rental property conditions, and are crucial for ensuring tenant safety, security, and privacy,” Ms Mercorella said.

She highlighted that the standards would help eliminate potential disputes between property owners and tenants regarding necessary repairs or improvements.

“For example, minimum housing standards specify that external windows and doors must have functional locks, and that window coverings such as blinds, curtains, glass tinting or frosting, are provided in all rooms where privacy is reasonably expected,” Ms Mercorella explained.

The REIQ has been advocating for these standards since 2016, pushing for greater clarity and specificity in housing standards.

Ms Mercorella noted that most rental properties should already be compliant with the new standards, as there has been a transition period leading up to their implementation.

“These standards should not come as a shock to property owners — there has been a transition period ahead of their commencement and the REIQ has used this time to educate property managers, who in turn have informed their clients,” she said.

The REIQ CEO warned that self-represented landlords might face issues due to lack of awareness or disregard for the law.

“Sadly, there are some property owners who are offering properties that are neither safe or suitable for rent. In these cases, there are now harsher penalties and legislative ramifications where potentially QCAT could make an order preventing that property from being able to be rented out until it is brought up to standard,” Ms Mercorella cautioned.

The new standards aim to ensure tenant safety, protect property owners and managers from potential liability risks, and improve the overall quality of rental properties in Queensland.

For more information on the minimum housing standards, tenants and landlords can seek advice from the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA), while the REIQ offers a Property Management Support Service for property managers.