I AM A TENANT

The legal responsibilities of a tenant in Queensland include payment of a bond and rent by the due date, taking good care of the property and keeping it clean, allowing access for inspections and maintenance and living in accordance with the terms outlined in the leasing agreement.

The maximum bond amount for rents $700 per week or less is four weeks rent. If the weekly rent is higher than $700, the amount of bond is negotiable between the property manager/landlord and the tenant. You can read more about bond management here.

On a fixed term lease the tenant is responsible for the payment of rent until the lease expires. If you need to break the lease you will be responsible for the payment of the rent until a new tenant moves in and for the fees associated with relisting the property and finding a new tenant.

At the commencement of your tenancy the bond is lodged with the Queensland Residential Tenancies Authority. When your tenancy agreement has ended you should complete the RTA Refund of Rental Bond form, known as a Form 4. You can read more about bond refunds here.

It is a landlord or property manager’s responsibility to ensure the property is in a good state of repair and meets minimum housing standards. If a tenant notices that repairs are needed they must notify the property manager or landlord promptly.

When something is damaged the tenant must pay for repairs if they or their guest caused the damage. If the damage is caused by other factors, such as a storm or wear and tear due to age, the landlord is responsible for the cost of repairs.

The inclusion of a pet is dependent on your rental agreement. Some properties do not allow any pets, others may allow a small pet, and others simply say pets are allowed. Always check your tenancy agreement before bringing a pet to your rental accommodation in Queensland.

Your lease agreement remains valid, and your rights and responsibilities under the lease continue with the new property owner.

No, you are not required to vacate the property immediately. You must be given proper notice as per Queensland's tenancy laws.

The new owner must honor the existing lease agreement until it expires. After that, they may choose to renegotiate or terminate the lease following the legal procedures.

Yes, you have the right to peaceful enjoyment of the property during the sales process. Your privacy and quiet enjoyment should be respected.

You should continue paying rent to the old owner until you receive written notice from the new owner indicating a change in payment details.

The bond should be transferred to the new owner, who will be responsible for returning it to you at the end of your tenancy, provided there are no outstanding issues.

You are responsible for returning the property in the same condition it was when you moved in, except for fair wear and tear. Any cleaning or repairs should be discussed with the new owner or their property manager.

Yes, it's a good practice to conduct a thorough inspection with the new owner or property manager, documenting the property's condition through photos or a written report to avoid disputes later on.