Talking Tenancies

Rights on rent

The amount of rent, and how it should be paid, must be stated in the tenancy agreement. There are rules for rent increases and in some circumstances the rent may be decreased. There are also rules about the non-payment of rent. 

In this episode of Talking Tenancies, we delve into the tricky questions we receive on a regular basis when it comes to your rights on rent with the RTA’s Peggy McGuinness.

Special terms

Special terms can be added to a general tenancy agreement or rooming accommodation agreement to provide guidance during the tenancy on things such as keeping pets, water charging and pool maintenance. 

In this episode of Talking Tenancies, we explore special terms on a tenancy agreement with Adam Busato from the RTA.

High density unit living

Apartment and body corporate living has its own challenges and rewards. Living in close proximity to others calls for greater consideration and sensitivity, but being part of a tight-knit community can be greatly rewarding. 

In this week’s episode of the Talking Tenancies podcast, we discuss high density unit living with Sarah Halligan and Andison Lai and what you need to consider when renting a unit, apartment or townhouse in a complex.

When a property becomes unliveable

A property becomes unliveable when it: 

• is fully, or partially, destroyed or 
• can no longer be used lawfully as a residence  

It’s important to consider the liveability of a property on a case-by-case basis. When a property becomes unlivable, there are usually two options – to end the tenancy or to continue the tenancy. 

In this episode of Talking Tenancies, we discuss what can happen when a rental property becomes damaged or destroyed  with RTA Conciliator Ben Gerwald.

Water charges and leaks

Lessors are allowed to pass on the full water consumption charges (including bulk water charges) to tenants provided they meet all the minimum criteria. 

At the start of the tenancy agreement, the managing party and tenant should negotiate arrangements for water charging and frequency of charges. 

In this episode of Talking Tenancies, we explore water charges and leaks in a rental property and discuss the rights and responsibilities of tenants and managing parties with RTA Customer Experience Acting Team Leader Michaela Alletsee.

Self resolution in tenancy disputes

Regular and open communication between parties in a tenancy is key to preventing disputes. If there is a dispute, it is best to be proactive, respectful and communicate clearly while negotiating and finding a resolution. Make sure you understand your rights and responsibilities under Queensland tenancy laws, and share information and knowledge with each other to work together. 

In this week’s episode of the Talking Tenancies podcast, we discuss self resolution steps with Shae Francis from Customer Experience at the RTA.

Utilities - charges and responsibilities

Tenants usually pay for services such as electricity, gas, phone and internet when renting a property. They may also be charged for water in some cases (conditions apply). In this episode of Talking Tenancies, we discuss the charges and responsibilities that apply to utilities in a rental property with Acting Customer Experience Team Leader, Jill Davidson.

Smoke alarm safety

Smoke alarms save lives. Reports have found that the risk of death in a house fire is reduced by more than half if properly maintained smoke alarms are installed. In this week’s episode of the Talking Tenancies podcast, we discuss the importance of smoke alarm maintenance and safety for tenants and managing parties with Senior Support Officer, Sarah Halligan.

Selling a rental property

When a rental property is for sale while it is occupied by a tenant, there are several scenarios that can take place, so it’s important to be informed on rights and responsibilities as a tenant and a property owner/manager. 

In this week’s episode of the Talking Tenancies podcast, we discuss what is required from all parties when a rental property is for sale with Matt Sturgess from Customer Experience at the RTA.

Sub-letting or share housing

Sharing a tenancy or a rental property is a popular way to keep living expenses affordable. While this can be in the form of sub-letting or share housing, they can be vastly different to each other and may affect your rights and responsibilities under the legislation. 

In this week’s episode of the Talking Tenancies podcast, we discuss the differences between sub-letting and share housing  with Jill Davidson from Customer Experience at the RTA.