Queensland’s minimum housing standards legislation came into effect to ensure rental properties across the state are safe, secure, and functional for tenants. If you're a landlord, property manager, or tenant in QLD, it’s essential to understand what these standards mean for you — and how they impact your rights and responsibilities under the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (RTRA Act).

Minimum housing standards define the basic safety and liveability requirements that all residential rental properties must meet. These regulations were introduced to protect tenants from unsafe or uninhabitable living conditions and to encourage landlords to maintain their properties to a higher standard.

Key requirements include:

✅ The premises must be weatherproof and structurally sound

✅ Fixtures and fittings must be in good repair and not pose injury risks

✅ All doors and windows must have functioning locks or latches

✅ Must include curtains or other window coverings to provide privacy in rooms where privacy is reasonably expected

✅ Properties must be free from hazards such as electrical faults, gas leaks, or pest infestations

✅ Essential facilities like kitchen and bathroom amenities must be operable and safe

These standards apply to both new tenancies starting from 1 September 2023 , and to all existing tenancies by 1 September 2024.

The purpose of the minimum housing standards is clear: to ensure that every rental property in Queensland is fit for human habitation . With increasing concerns about substandard housing and tenant safety, this regulation was introduced to raise the bar for rental property quality and provide better protection for tenants.

This also benefits landlords in the long run by promoting long-term property value , reducing tenant complaints , and improving overall tenant satisfaction .

Landlords and property managers now need to ensure that their properties meet the baseline safety and functionality criteria before renting them out. While some upgrades may be required — especially for older properties — compliance helps avoid disputes, legal issues, and costly repairs down the line.

If you own a rental property, here’s what you should do:

🔍 Review your property against the minimum standards checklist

🛠️ Upgrade fixtures, locks, and appliances where necessary

📋 Keep maintenance records up to date

📞 Consider working with a professional property management service like Gardian Property Management in Mackay to ensure ongoing compliance.

Tenants now have the right to expect that any property they rent meets basic safety, security, and functionality standards. If a property doesn’t meet these expectations, tenants can report issues through official channels and request repairs or improvements.

However, tenants also have responsibilities — including keeping the property clean and reporting problems promptly — to ensure a positive and cooperative tenancy environment.

The minimum housing standards legislation marks a significant step forward for Queensland’s rental market. Whether you’re a landlord, tenant, or property manager, understanding and complying with these standards is crucial for maintaining high-quality rental housing across the state.

At Gardian Property Management , we help landlords stay ahead of legislative changes, prepare properties for rent, and ensure full compliance with current laws.

📞 Contact us today at 07 4957 7424 or email enquiries@gardian.com.au to learn how we can support you in managing your investment property with confidence.