Whether you are a landlord or a tenant, it is vital that you are aware of rental law changes that came into effect on 30 September 2024. This change in rental laws significantly impacts how rental properties are managed in Queensland, so whether you are an experienced landlord or new to the property game, it is crucial you are aware of these changes. If you are currently renting a property, it is also important that you properly educate yourself on these changes, so you are aware of your rights as a tenant.
To help you stay properly informed, we have gone through some of the key change in rental laws and summarised them below. If any of the below information is confusing, or you wish to learn more about these recent rental law changes, we recommend contacting our team to discuss these changes and how they impact you.
If you’re searching for the rental property management Brisbane relies on for all their property needs, call us on 07 3707 3143, send an email to hello@spectrumea.com.au, or get in touch through our online contact form.
The Recent Change in Rental Laws You Need to Know
Fixed Maximum Bond
While in the past a fixed maximum bond only applied to general tenancy agreements with weekly rent of $700 or less, and rooming accommodation agreements with weekly rent of $500 or less, it now applies to all general tenancy and rooming accommodation agreements. This means the maximum bond amount is now capped at no more than 4 times the weekly rent amount.
If you had previously paid more than 4 weeks rent for bond and are signing a new lease agreement at the same premise, you can apply to have the excess amount refunded by the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA).
Evidence for Bond Claims
When making a bond claim or disputing a bond, a property manager or owner must now provide the tenant with supporting evidence within 14 days of the claim or dispute being lodged. The manager/owner must do this even if they are only claiming part of the bond, and if they fail to make reasonable efforts to contact you, they may be fined.
If your bond was paid to the RTA before 30 September 2024, this new rule does not apply until 12 months after 30 September 2024.
Limit on Reletting Costs
These rental law changes have also impacted reletting costs, as tenants are now only required to pay rent based on the remaining time left on their tenancy agreement if they decide to break their lease. This is to create a fairer deal for tenants by preventing them from being charged with excessive fees for ending a lease early.
The new costs are as follows:
- Less than 25% of the lease expired – 4 weeks rent
- 25% to less than 50% expired – 3 weeks rent
- 50% to less than 75% expired – 2 weeks rent
- 75% or more expired – 1 weeks rent
Rent Payments
Landlords must now offer tenants with at least two methods for paying their rent, with one of these methods not incurring more than the usual bank transaction costs. This is designed to help tenants choose a payment method that does not incur excessive fees. Any changes to these payment methods must be clearly communicated to the tenants in advance.
Utility Bills
Tenants must be provided with any utility bills (such as water and electricity) within 4 weeks of the bill being issued to the landlord. If this deadline isn’t met, then the tenants are not obligated to pay. When it comes to water bills, these charges must be based on the actual meter readings, which need to be recorded in the entry and exit condition reports.
Providing False or Misleading Information
The recent change in rental laws now makes it a fineable offence for anyone involved in a tenancy to provide false or misleading information to the RTA. This is to promote greater honesty and accuracy in the rental market.
Information Sharing
The RTA now has greater authority to share information about renters, property owners, and property managers with other government agencies. This is designed to improve compliance and transparency throughout the sector, ensuring everyone follows the rules.
Need More Help Understanding These Rental Law Changes?
At Spectrum Estate Agents, we are the Brisbane real estate agents you can trust to guide you through the often confusing rental market. We also assist clients with buying and selling property. If you’re ready to organise a friendly consultation with our experienced team, reach out through our online contact form, send an email to hello@spectrumea.com.au, or give us a call on 07 3707 3143.
