NOTE: It’s fair to say points raised below are reasonable for all properties regardless of which state or territory they’re in. QUEENSLAND property managers can find more information on new standards on REIQ’s website, https://www.reiq.com/articles/minimum-housing-standards-are-you-prepared/
With Queensland set for new minimum housing standards to be introduced for new tenancies later this year (from 1 September 2023), and all tenancies next year (from 1 September 2024), it’s a good time to consider the state of your current property.
Providing a safe and secure property that is liveable forms the basis of what needs to be met when presenting your property to the market. While the type of property will sometimes dictate the level of liveability (i.e. space, inclusions, surrounding amenities), it should not, however, dictate the property’s security and safety, or that of its tenants.
The incoming minimum housing standards, while specific to Queensland residences under schedule 5A of the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Regulation 2009, provide a great baseline to consider the standard of your property, regardless of which state or territory your property is in.
What to consider? The property should be:
- Weatherproof, structurally sound and in good repair overall.
- Fixtures and fittings, including electrical appliances must be in good repair and not likely to cause injury to a person through ordinary use.
- Have functioning locks or fittings to secure the premises against unauthorised entry.
- Free from vermin, damp and mould.
- Fitted with privacy coverings (for windows), where tenants are likely to expect privacy in the property.
It can be reasonably expected that the premise has:
- Adequate plumbing and drainage and be connected to water supply or infrastructure which allows for hot and cold water, and suitable drinking water.
- Functioning bathroom and toilet facilities, which provide the user with privacy.
- Appropriate fixtures required for a functional laundry and functioning cook-top for a kitchen.
While these set standards may be considered common sense, age and weather can cause deterioration of your property. Not only is regular maintenance vital for keeping up the standard of your property, addressing issues as they rise will ensure the property remains in good condition, with less chance of hefty repairs down the track.