Are you looking for information on tenant and landlord rights in Cairns? Here at WGC Lawyers, we have years of experience advising clients on the intricacies of rental law. Tenant and landlord rights in Queensland are outlined by the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008. Residential tenancies law is overseen and administered by the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA). If you are a landlord or tenant looking for legal advice regarding a tenancy issue, contact a property lawyer in Cairns today.
Rights And Obligations For Landlord and Tenants
Starting a Tenancy
The landlord must provide the tenant with a written agreement prior to occupancy. No fees can be charged by the landlord for the preparation of the agreement.
The landlord is required to carry out an inspection and provide a condition report to the tenant before they move in. This report stands as evidence of the condition of the home when the tenancy ends.
Contact our team of property lawyers in Cairns today if you need help looking over a rental agreement.
Bond
The landlord is entitled to a bond that must be lodged with the RTA within 10 days of having received it. The bond is returned to the tenant at the end of the tenancy.
Landlord Rights
The tenant has an obligation to pay the landlord the rent on time. If there is a failure to pay the rent within seven days of the due date, the landlord can issue a ‘notice to remedy breach’. If the tenant still doesn’t pay, a ‘notice to leave’ can be issued, which requires the tenant to vacate within seven days of the notice.
If a tenant ignores the notice to leave, the landlord can approach the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) to evict the tenant.
Safety
The landlord is responsible for basic safety measures in a rental home. It is their responsibility to provide pool fences, smoke alarms, and other safety measures that comply with Queensland law. Maintenance, installation and battery replacement for smoke alarms must be carried out within 30 days before a tenancy begins.
Rights Of Tenants
- Tenants are protected by the right to security of tenure. This means that a landlord cannot terminate a rental agreement without reasonable cause.
- Landlords are only allowed to increase rent if they provide a written notice 2 months prior. Rent can only be increased once in a 12-month period.
- Tenants are responsible for keeping the property clean, undamaged and must inform the landlord of repairs that are needed.
Contact a local property lawyer in Cairns for more information on tenant rights and obligations.
Experienced Team Of Property Lawyers In Cairns
Need help understanding your rights and obligations as a renter or homeowner? Contact WGC Lawyers to consult with friendly, compassionate and experienced property lawyers in Cairns.