Information for tenants
Looking for a place, or already renting through us? Here's how applications, bonds, inspections and repairs work, and where to find the official rules.
Applying for a rental
Browse our current rentals, book a viewing and apply using the approved application process. What you can expect:
- No rent bidding. Properties are advertised at a fixed rent. We won't ask for, or accept, offers above it. More about the rent bidding ban.
- Only the information the law allows. Queensland limits the personal information that can be collected from applicants. We will ask for identity, rental history, income and references, and we store what you give us securely.
- A fee-free way to pay rent. You will always have at least one way to pay rent that costs you nothing extra.
Before a tenancy starts, you receive the tenancy agreement and an entry condition report. Check the report carefully, add your own comments and photos, and return it on time. It is the benchmark for your bond at the end of the lease.
Your bond
- The bond can't be more than four weeks' rent. Since 30 September 2024, that cap applies to all general tenancies, whatever the rent.
- We lodge it with the Residential Tenancies Authority within 10 days, and you receive confirmation from the RTA.
- Pet bonds are not allowed, and no other bond can be charged on top of the rental bond.
- At the end of the tenancy, the bond is refunded through the RTA. Any claim is based on a comparison of the entry and exit condition reports, allowing for fair wear and tear.
Entry and inspections
- For most reasons, we must give you at least 48 hours' written notice before entering (since 1 May 2025).
- Routine inspections need at least 7 days' notice and can happen no more than once every three months.
- Entry is between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Saturday, unless you agree otherwise. Not on Sundays or public holidays without your agreement.
You don't have to be home for an inspection. After each routine inspection, we let you know if anything needs attention.
Repairs and maintenance
Report repairs to our office in writing as soon as you notice them, with photos if you can. Routine repairs are arranged with the owner's approval, and a tradesperson will contact you to organise access.
Emergency repairs, such as a burst water pipe, a serious roof leak, a gas leak, a dangerous electrical fault or storm damage, should be reported straight away. Call us on 07 4723 3222 during office hours. Outside office hours, use the nominated emergency repairers listed in your tenancy agreement.
Every Queensland rental must meet the minimum housing standards. If you think your home doesn't, raise it with us in writing.
Cyclone season: keep outdoor furniture and loose items ready to secure. Before a storm or cyclone warning, check with us about anything specific to your property.
Rent and rent increases
- Rent can only be increased once every 12 months, and the limit applies to the property. So if the rent was raised for the previous tenant less than 12 months ago, it can't be raised again yet.
- You must get at least two months' written notice of any increase.
- During a fixed-term lease, rent can only go up if your agreement allows for it.
If you are having trouble paying rent, contact us early. It is much easier to work something out before arrears build up.
If something goes wrong
Talk to us first. Most issues can be sorted out quickly. If not, the RTA offers a free dispute resolution service, and unresolved disputes can go to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT).
The Residential Tenancies Authority is the official source of information for Queensland tenants and landlords.