As of 1st September 2023, Queensland has implemented minimum housing standards for both new and existing tenancies. These standards are designed to ensure that residential properties meet certain requirements for safety, functionality, and overall quality. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the importance of these standards, how they impact landlords and homeowners, and provide practical steps to prepare your property for compliance.
What Are the Minimum Housing Standards for QLD?
Minimum housing standards refer to a set of legally enforced regulations and requirements that define the minimum level of quality and safety for residential properties. These standards establish the baseline for habitable conditions, encompassing various aspects of housing, including structural integrity, safety measures, thermal comfort, accessibility, and health and hygiene provisions.
The prescribed minimum housing standards are outlined in schedule 5A of the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Regulation 2009 (RTRA Regulation). They cover two main parts: safety and security, and reasonable functionality.
Part 1 – Safety and Security
- Weatherproof and structurally sound: The premises must be weatherproof, structurally sound, and in good repair to prevent water ingress during rainfall.
- Fixtures and fittings: All fixtures and fittings, including electrical appliances, must be in good repair and pose no risk of injury during ordinary use.
- Locks on windows and doors: All external windows and doors accessible without a ladder must have functioning locks or latches to ensure security.
- Vermin, damp, and mold: The premises must be free from vermin, damp, and mold, excluding cases caused by tenant negligence.
- Privacy: Windows in rooms where privacy is expected, such as bedrooms, must have privacy coverings like blinds, curtains, tinting, or glass frosting.
Part 2 – Reasonable Functionality
- Plumbing and drainage: The premises must have adequate plumbing and drainage for the number of occupants, connected to a suitable water supply service.
- Bathrooms and toilets: Bathroom and toilet facilities must provide privacy, function properly, and be connected to appropriate waste disposal systems.
- Kitchen: If included, the kitchen must have a functioning cooktop.
- Laundry: If included, the laundry must have the necessary fixtures to function as a functional laundry space (excluding white goods).
The Minimum Housing Standards mark the final phase of rental reforms under the Housing Legislation Amendment Act 2021 (HLA Act), which have been in effect since October 2021.
For detailed information about minimum housing standards, including commonly asked questions, visit the RTA’s webpage dedicated to the latest updates in rental law changes.
Interested to learn more about the rental law changes? Check out our latest blog post.
Importance of Compliance with Housing Standards
Compliance with minimum housing standards is not only a legal obligation but also a means to ensure the well-being of tenants and maintain the value and reputation of your property. Meeting these standards promotes safety, improves the overall quality of living, and contributes to the sustainability and long-term viability of the rental market in Queensland. Read more about the rental law reform here.
How to Prepare for Minimum Housing Standards in QLD
Preparing for minimum housing standards requires proactive steps to ensure compliance. Here’s how you can get prepared:
Familiarise yourself with the requirements
Obtain a copy of the Minimum Housing Standards in QLD from the official government sources or relevant departments responsible for housing regulations. Read through the standards carefully to understand the specific requirements and guidelines.
Engage Professionals and Seek Guidance
Consult experts such as building inspectors, electricians, and plumbers to gain insights into compliance requirements and recommendations. Leverage their expertise to make informed decisions and ensure your property meets the standards.
Conduct an Assessment
Conduct a comprehensive property inspection to identify areas that require improvement or upgrades before the tenancy starts. Prioritise necessary changes based on the assessment to meet the minimum housing standards.
Obtain necessary permits and approvals
Before making any structural or major modifications to your property, ensure you have obtained the required permits and approvals from the relevant local authorities
Implement the necessary changes
Execute your action plan by implementing the recommended modifications and improvements to your property.
The New Minimum Housing Standards – Conclusion:
It is important for landlords in Queensland to understand and prepare for the minimum housing standards to comply with the prescribed regulations. By meeting these standards, you not only fulfill your legal obligations but also provide tenants with safe, functional, and high-quality housing. Keep in mind that specific requirements and procedures may vary depending on the type of housing and local regulations. We are here to help our landlords navigate the requirements, obtain assessments and engage required trades to get everything up to date. Feel free to reach out to our team if you need assistance.
