Rental Law Compliance: Essentials for Landlords

Cairns Property Collective Client • August 26, 2025

Queensland's rental laws are always changing, so property investors really need to stay on the loop. There have been big reforms in the last couple of years, and more are coming.


It's not just about following the rules; it's about protecting your investment, avoiding issues, and building good, long-term relationships with your tenants.


This guide will give you a practical look at what's new, what's coming up, and how to keep your property compliant this year and beyond.


Where We Are Now

Queensland's rental legislation has undergone significant reform in recent years, with a major change being the introduction of minimum housing standards. These standards became mandatory for all tenancies from 1 September 2024, covering essential safety and liveability requirements. Compliance with these standards is not optional.


If your property is rented out in Queensland, you must now ensure:

  • Secure locks on windows and doors
  • Privacy coverings in relevant rooms
  • Proper ventilation and plumbing
  • Functioning kitchen and laundry spaces (where applicable)
  • Vermin- and mould-free conditions


Looking ahead, there’s also the 2027 smoke alarm upgrade deadline, which many landlords are now tackling early to avoid a last-minute scramble.


Key Compliance Areas for 2025


1. Minimum Housing Standards

The basics might seem simple, but we’ve seen non-compliance creep in through overlooked maintenance. A missing curtain rail or broken lock can be enough to breach the new rules.


Routine inspections are essential to keep properties up to standard, especially in regions like Cairns where tropical weather can take a toll on materials and finishes.


2. Bond Lodgement and Documentation

Significant changes have been made to bond handling. You now have a strict 10-day window to lodge a bond with the RTA. Failure to meet this deadline may result in penalties.


Supporting evidence is also a new focus. If you’re making a claim or disputing a bond after 30 September 2024, you must supply clear documentation within 14 days. Entry condition reports, photos, and inspection records are critical.


3. Pet Requests

The old days of blanket “no pets” policies are over. Under the current laws, landlords must:

  • Respond to pet requests within 14 days
  • Provide a valid reason if refusing (e.g. property unsuitability or body corporate restrictions)
  • Allow reasonable conditions, like professional cleaning or pet agreements

Miss the response window, and approval is automatic.


4. Entry Condition Reports

If you’re not already using detailed, photo-supported entry reports, you’re at risk. We’ve started including 360° virtual tours and voice notes as standard in our reports, and it’s made resolving disputes significantly smoother.


Mistakes That Could Cost You

We’ve seen even experienced landlords run into trouble from things like:

  • Delaying responses to repair or pet requests
  • Submitting vague or incomplete entry/exit reports
  • Letting small maintenance issues linger until they become compliance problems
  • Not keeping up with changes to the law, or relying on outdated templates and processes


These aren't merely administrative mistakes; they can escalate to tribunal disputes, forfeiture of bond claims, or substantial fines.


The Importance of Local Expertise

Managing rentals in Cairns presents unique challenges compared to Brisbane, notably due to humidity, wet season storms, and seasonal pests, all of which can impact compliance.


That’s why a local property manager, adept in both legislation and climate, offers a significant advantage. At Cairns Property Collective, we help our landlords deal with legislative changes, ensuring thorough documentation and compliance.


Need Help With Compliance?

Complying with Queensland's rental laws is more than just about dodging fines. It's key to smart property investing, protecting your profits, and building good relationships with your tenants.


With new rules fully in play and more deadlines coming up, it's a good time to check your current processes, paperwork, and how you handle compliance overall.


Not sure if your property meets all the latest legal requirements? Get in touch with us at Cairns Property Collective for a compliance check and some personalised advice!