What are the Minimum Standards for Rentals in Queensland?
In Queensland, strengthened repair and maintenance obligations commenced from 1 October 2022 to support the staggered introduction of minimum housing standards from 1 September 2023.
Minimum Housing Standards apply to new leases entered from 1 September 2023 and all tenancies from 1 September 2024.
To meet minimum standards, properties in Queensland must:
1. Be weatherproof and structurally sound
2. Have fixtures and fittings in good repair
3. Have locks on windows and doors
4. Be free of vermin, damp and mould
5. Boast privacy coverings
6. Have adequate plumbing and drainage
7. Home a functioning kitchen and laundry facilities.
In addition, smoke alarms must be installed in each bedroom on each storey and in hallways with interconnected bedrooms. If there is no bedroom on a storey, then there must be at least one installed in the most likely path of travel to the exit. Lastly, if the house has a pool, landlords must ensure that pool safety barriers are compliant.
Please note, the above is not an exhaustive list of minimum standards in Queensland.
You can download your guide for more information: Minimum housing standards – general tenancies fact sheet
For a more detailed list, visit the Queensland Government’s Department of Communities