Most tenants know the basics — you have the right to a habitable home, proper notice before entry, and a fair bond process. But Queensland’s tenancy laws go further than many renters realise. Here are some important rights you might not know you have.
You have the right to make minor modifications. Queensland law allows tenants to make certain minor changes to a rental property — such as installing picture hooks, adding accessibility aids, or using removable adhesive hooks — without needing the landlord’s permission. For more significant modifications, you can request permission in writing, and a landlord cannot unreasonably refuse.
You have the right to a smoke alarm that works. Landlords are legally required to ensure that smoke alarms are properly installed and functional at the start of a tenancy. If you discover a smoke alarm that isn’t working, you have the right to request it be fixed promptly.
You have the right to dispute a rent increase. If you receive a rent increase notice that you believe is excessive or was given without proper notice, you have the right to challenge it. The RTA’s dispute resolution process is available to tenants who feel a rent increase is unreasonable.
You have the right to privacy during a sales campaign. If your property goes on the market while you’re living there, the landlord and agent must give proper notice before entry and conduct inspections at reasonable times. You can also refuse unreasonable requests.
Knowing your rights is the first step to a positive tenancy experience. At Sapphire Estate Agents Queensland, we believe in fair, transparent property management. If you have questions about your rights as a tenant, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
