Talking Tenancies
54 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 2 months ago -The Talking Tenancies podcast is brought to you by Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) and explores everything you need to know about renting in Queensland. We are a state government statutory authority that helps make renting work for everyone, providing tenancy information and support, bond management, dispute resolution, investigations and prosecutions, and education services.
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Episodes
Secondary Dwellings
March 01, 2024 03:15 - 6 minutes - 9.26 MBProperty owners can choose to rent out secondary dwellings, such as granny flats to non-household members. It’s important that property owners discuss all terms of an agreement with tenants/residents and ensure the property meets the required standards. In this episode, RTA expert, Susan Cridland joins us to discuss the intricacies of renting a secondary dwelling in Queensland.
Pest Control
December 04, 2023 23:59 - 10 minutes - 13.8 MBMaintaining pest control measures in a rental property are all part of maintaining a healthy living environment and meeting minimum housing standards in Queensland. RTA's expert, Lori Lynam joins us to explain the obligations of property owner/managers and tenants in various situations when it comes to Pest Control.
Minimum Housing Standards
July 21, 2023 04:21 - 16 minutes - 22.5 MBNew rules around minimum housing standards are due to come into effect on 1 September 2023 for new tenancies and 1 September 2024 for all tenancies. Minimum housing standards aim to ensure rental properties are safe, secure and functional. They will give tenants, residents, property managers and owners more clarity around the essential requirements and maintenance obligations for Queensland rental properties. In this episode we explore the details with RTA expert, Sam Galer. Visit www.rta.ql...
Rent increases
June 23, 2023 04:42 - 14 minutes - 19.5 MBFrom 1 July 2023, changes to limit rent increase frequency to once every 12 months will come into effect for all new and existing tenancies. In this episode, RTA's expert, Sam Galer takes us through the legislative changes and what they mean for the renting community in Queensland. Visit www.rta.qld.gov.au for more information.
How to deal with mould
February 19, 2023 22:58 - 6 minutes - 9.51 MBMould is something every Queenslander is familiar with, as our warm and wet weather is a key driver in the production of mould at different times of the year. Mould may grow indoors in wet or moist areas that lack adequate ventilation, including walls or wallpaper, ceilings, bathroom tiles, carpets, insulation material and wood. If left, mould can cause damage to a home and belongings, and can also pose a health risk to those living in the property. Learn more by tuning in with RTA Expe...
Repair orders and more
October 23, 2022 22:00 - 8 minutes - 12 MBQueensland tenancy laws are changing from 1 October 2022, the new laws provide tenants, property managers and owners with a greater number of reasons to end a tenancy, introduces a framework for negotiating renting with pets, repair orders as well as a few other amendments. In this episode, we’ll be specifically focusing on the tenancy law changes around the introduction of repair orders and other amendments. RTA expert, Taylor Dean walks us through the new Queensland tenancy law changes ...
First time renters
October 20, 2022 02:43 - 25 minutes - 26.3 MBThere’s a lot to remember when it comes to renting a property and it can be quite overwhelming if you’ve never done it before, trying to find your way on your own. Renting rules and legislation can vary quite a lot state to state, so first time renting in a different state also has its own challenges. We can help you to understand your rights and responsibilities in all stages of the tenancy and point out the resources available to help you make a home and settle in as quickly as possible. In...
Renting with pets
October 16, 2022 22:00 - 10 minutes - 14.7 MBQueensland tenancy laws are changing from 1 October 2022, the new laws provide tenants, property managers and owners with a greater number of reasons to end a tenancy, introduces a framework for negotiating renting with pets, repair orders as well as a few other amendments. In this episode, we’ll be focusing on the tenancy law changes around the new framework that’s in place to help tenants and property owners to negotiate renting with a pet. RTA's expert, Sheri Wilton takes us through e...
Ending a tenancy
October 09, 2022 22:00 - 7 minutes - 10.1 MBQueensland tenancy laws have changed from 1 October 2022 providing property managers, owners and tenants with a greater number of reasons to end a tenancy, the introduction of a framework for negotiating renting with pets, repair orders as well as a few other amendments. In this episode, we’ll focus specifically on the tenancy law changes around ending a tenancy. RTA's expert, Lynn Smith helps us to get a greater understanding of what we need to know in terms of the new changes to Queens...
Rental law changes overview
September 25, 2022 22:00 - 11 minutes - 15.3 MBQueensland tenancy laws are changing from 1 October 2022, the new laws provide tenants, property managers and owners with a greater number of reasons to end a tenancy, a framework for negotiating renting with pets and repair orders as well as a few other amendments. In this episode, we’ll be providing an overview of the new tenancy laws taking effect from 1 October 2022. There will be separate episodes that detail each of the key changes in the following month. RTA's expert, Megan Ja...
What is fair wear and tear?
June 05, 2022 22:00 - 10 minutes - 14.8 MBFor a term bandied around a lot, the term wear and tear claims a fair share of the debate over damage to rented properties. When you put fair in front of the wear and tear part the interpretation becomes even more complex. In this episode, we aim to help clarify exactly what it is and how it applies to a tenancy with the RTA's Marc Fidler.
Compliance and enforcement strategy
May 22, 2022 22:00 - 8 minutes - 12 MBThe RTA’s Compliance and Enforcement function supports fairness in the rental sector through ensuring that all parties to a tenancy comply with the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (the Act). In this episode of Talking Tenancies, we gain insights from the RTA's Stuart Taylor on the proactive approach to education in the sector.
Nuisance neighbours
May 08, 2022 22:00 - 13 minutes - 18.3 MBWhether renting or not, neighbours can sometimes impact the quiet enjoyment of our living environment – this can stem from noise, smoking, parking, rubbish or overgrown properties. In this episode, we aim to give you some tips on how to live in harmony with your neighbours and what you can do when it all gets a bit too much to handle. Our RTA expert in this episode is Jill Davidson.
Rooming accommodation
April 24, 2022 22:00 - 18 minutes - 25.1 MBThe Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (the Act) contains the rules covering rooming accommodation such as boarding houses, hostels, and off-campus student accommodation in Queensland. In this episode of Talking Tenancies, the RTA's Lynn Smith helps us to understand the differences when it comes to rooming accommodation.
The evolution of RTA Web Services
April 10, 2022 22:00 - 16 minutes - 22.6 MBRTA Web Services make updating your bond details and completing essential tenancy transactions faster, easier, and more convenient for all parties. The RTA's Tim Perrott joins us this episode to step us through each RTA Web Service and how it works.
Taking photos in a rental property
March 27, 2022 22:24 - 16 minutes - 22.7 MBAt different stages of a tenancy, a property manager/owner or prospective buyer/tenant may want to take photos inside and outside of the rental property for various reasons, such as to advertise a property for sale or re-let, or during inspections for records and as supporting evidence for formal documentation like entry and exit condition reports. In this episode of Talking Tenancies, the RTA's Christian Herrmann guides us through what we need to know when taking photos in a rental property
Beyond dispute resolution - next steps
March 13, 2022 22:00 - 14 minutes - 19.7 MBSometimes during the life of a tenancy, disagreements may occur between the parties involved. The RTA is here to help all parties in an impartial way, whilst ensuring all obligations under the legislation are met through our dispute resolution service. If an agreement cannot be reached, this is where there is the option of taking the matter to the Queensland Civil Administrative Tribunal – QCAT. In this episode of Talking Tenancies, we are joined by RTA's Michaela Alletsee.
Mythbusting the role of the RTA
February 27, 2022 22:00 - 13 minutes - 18.2 MBIn this episode we will bust some myths and misconceptions to help get a greater understanding of the RTA’s role and what we do to support the Queensland rental sector with the RTA's Rowan Bayliss.
How we can help you better when you call
February 13, 2022 22:00 - 13 minutes - 18.9 MBWhen you contact us at the RTA, there is some information you can gather to make sure we can provide the right information for your situation and the support you need. Being prepared before picking up the phone and understanding the RTA’s role and responsibilities can go a long way to help us guide you to a better outcome. In this episode of Talking Tenancies, we discuss ways you can take action to help us help you with your enquiry with the RTA's Susan Cridland.
Tips for students renting in Queensland
January 30, 2022 22:00 - 13 minutes - 18.3 MBWhether students are renting in purpose-built student accommodation, sharing a house with others or going it alone in a unit, it’s important they understand their tenancy rights and responsibilities. For some students, this may be their first time away from home and renting on their own, or their first time in Australia. Students are encouraged to read their agreement and ask questions to clarify expectations before they sign, and be aware that they should receive a receipt for any money...
What is a tenancy agreement?
January 16, 2022 22:00 - 15 minutes - 21.1 MBA tenancy agreement is a legally binding, written agreement between a tenant and a managing party. An agreement must be used even if it is between family or friends. RTA's Helen Doogan joins us to talk about the different agreements and their importance.
Caravans and moveable dwellings
January 02, 2022 22:00 - 12 minutes - 16.6 MBThe Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (the Act) applies to renting a place to live in Queensland – including tenancy agreements for caravans, caravan sites, houseboats, rented manufactured homes and moveable dwellings for residential purposes. In this episode with RTA's Blair Lawson, we talk about the key differences in caravan and moveable dwelling tenancies.
Festive season safety and security
December 19, 2021 22:00 - 11 minutes - 16.1 MBAs the end of the year rapidly approaches, it can be easy to get carried away during the festive season with celebrations and commitments. In this episode, we have some tips and reminders to help tenants plan for a happy, safe secure and enjoyable holiday season. In this episode with RTA's Ben Gerwald, we talk about how to enjoy this festive season with peace of mind as a tenant in Queensland.
Domestic and family violence protections
December 05, 2021 22:00 - 16 minutes - 23.2 MBEveryone deserves to feel safe at home, and domestic and family violence is never acceptable. Domestic and family violence (DFV) occurs when one person in an intimate personal, family or informal carer relationship uses violence or abuse to maintain power and control over the other person. Living with DFV can have a devastating impact on a person’s autonomy, independence, wellbeing and safety. In this episode with RTA's Sam Galer, we'll talk about the updated renting laws that may be ...
How to protect yourself from rental scams
November 21, 2021 22:00 - 16 minutes - 22.8 MBThe Residential Tenancies Authority urges Queensland tenants to remain vigilant and be alert when searching for their next rental property. Common scams can include online classified ads or social media posts from people pretending to be real property managers or owners that mislead tenants into paying deposits or bonds for rental properties that are sometimes fake or unavailable addresses. These unfortunate situations leave prospective tenants in the challenging position of trying to reco...
Bushfire season
November 08, 2021 00:09 - 10 minutes - 14.1 MBQueensland experiences some of Australia’s most extreme weather events each year. Bushfire season typically begins in July and ends in October and can extend through to February, but with varying climate conditions, bushfires can occur anytime and anywhere. In this episode of Talking Tenancies, Andison Lai from the RTA discusses 4 key actions you can take to stay safe this bushfire season.
Storms, cyclones and flooding
October 24, 2021 22:00 - 14 minutes - 20.4 MBQueenslanders are no strangers to cyclones and severe storms that can produce hail, flooding rains, lightning, winds greater than 200km/h and storm surge. They are often unpredictable and can potentially cause major damage to property. It’s important to be prepared and aware to ensure your safety through storm season. Our RTA expert for this episode is Marc Fidler from RTA's Customer Experience team.
Keep your cool with airconditioning and pools
October 10, 2021 22:00 - 10 minutes - 13.9 MBQueensland is known for its scorching summers and so keeping cool is important when the heat is on. In the latest episode of the Talking Tenancies podcast we discuss maintaining and repairing air conditioners and pools to ensure a comfortable summer for both tenants and managing parties. Our RTA expert for this episode is Stephen Watson from RTA's Customer Experience team.
Rights on rent
September 26, 2021 22:00 - 17 minutes - 23.4 MBThe 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
September 12, 2021 22:00 - 14 minutes - 19.9 MBSpecial 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
August 29, 2021 22:00 - 9 minutes - 13.5 MBApartment 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.
The role of RTA Investigations
August 15, 2021 22:00 - 14 minutes - 33.5 MBThe RTA’s Investigations function supports fairness in the rental sector through ensuring that all parties to a tenancy comply with the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act (the RTRA Act). We achieve this through taking a proactive approach to education, targeted compliance activities and investigations on behalf of customers into alleged breaches of the Act. The RTA is a regulator and is therefore committed to conducting investigations in a way that is fair and equitable to b...
When a property becomes unliveable
August 01, 2021 22:00 - 14 minutes - 33.8 MBA 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
July 18, 2021 22:00 - 14 minutes - 33.4 MBLessors 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 Experie...
Self resolution in tenancy disputes
July 04, 2021 22:00 - 18 minutes - 42.6 MBRegular 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 C...
Utilities - charges and responsibilities
June 20, 2021 22:00 - 15 minutes - 34.9 MBTenants 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
June 06, 2021 22:00 - 8 minutes - 20.4 MBSmoke 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
May 23, 2021 22:00 - 17 minutes - 39 MBWhen 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
May 09, 2021 22:00 - 14 minutes - 33.3 MBSharing 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.
Dispute resolution
April 25, 2021 22:00 - 15 minutes - 35 MBWhen tenancy disputes occur, the RTA encourages all parties to try to resolve disagreements by talking to each other. Often disputes arise when someone does not meet the terms of the tenancy agreement. In this week’s episode of the Talking Tenancies podcast, we discuss the dispute resolution process with Shae Francis from Customer Experience at the RTA.
Vacating a rental property
April 11, 2021 22:00 - 12 minutes - 29.8 MBWhen it comes time to move out and vacate a rental property, it’s a great idea to make a checklist and follow a step-by-step process to ensure it goes as smoothly as possible. In this week’s episode of the Talking Tenancies podcast, we discuss vacating a property with Sarah Halligan from Customer Experience at the RTA.
Breach notices
March 28, 2021 22:00 - 21 minutes - 29.5 MBA breach of the tenancy agreement is when the property manager/owner or tenant fails to comply with any part of the agreement. In this episode of the Talking Tenancies podcast, we discuss breach notices with Sam Galer from the RTA.
Breaking a lease
March 14, 2021 22:00 - 17 minutes - 23.6 MBIf a tenant or property manager/owner ends a fixed term agreement before the end date without sufficient reason they are breaking the agreement – also known as breaking the lease. A tenancy agreement is a legally binding agreement and when broken, may result in the need for compensation. In this week’s episode we discuss breaking a lease with Matt Sturgess from Customer Experience at the RTA.
Starting a tenancy
February 28, 2021 21:56 - 34 minutes - 47.2 MBYou’ve been on the hunt for your dream rental and finally found the right home for you. After the inspection, you love it and want to take steps to rent it – so what happens next? In this week’s episode of the Talking Tenancies podcast, we discuss starting a tenancy with Sam Galer from the RTA.
Your rights on repairs
February 14, 2021 22:14 - 17 minutes - 23.5 MBA managing part is responsible for ensuring the property is fit to live in and in a good state of repair. A tenant is responsible for notifying their managing party in a timely manner if repairs are needed. Our expert from the RTA is Kimberley Galumalemana from the Quality and Training team.
When a tenant leaves unexpectedly
January 31, 2021 22:00 - 14 minutes - 20.1 MBIn this episode, we look at what happens when a tenant leaves the property unexpectedly. It may be that a sole tenant or co-tenant has died, the property has been abandoned, or the tenant is unable to return to the property. Our expert from the RTA is Antonella Spatola from the Dispute Resolution team.
Routine Inspections
January 17, 2021 22:00 - 14 minutes - 15.6 MBRTA Support Officer Ben Gerwald assists in taking an in-depth look at routine inspections, which can lead to some tricky conversations between parties.
RTA Web Services
March 22, 2020 21:00 - 13 minutes - 15.8 MBThe introduction of Web Services has made a significant difference to the RTA and the Queensland renting community providing a range of transactions that both managing parties and tenants can complete with us online, 24 hours a day/7 days a week. In this episode our RTA expert is Nasa Walton - Chief Digital Officer.
Life cycle of a bond
March 15, 2020 21:00 - 11 minutes - 13.9 MBIn this episode we take a look at rental bonds and the process around lodgement, refunds, disputes, increases and how the RTA supports tenants and property owners and managers throughout the life cycle of a bond. Our RTA expert in this episode is Matt Sturgess, Manager, Customer Experience.
Gardens and Maintenance
March 08, 2020 21:00 - 14 minutes - 17.3 MBGardens & Maintenance during a tenancy can cause headaches for both tenants and property owners or managers if there is not clarity around responsibilities. In this episode we get into the nitty gritty of gardens and maintenance and answer some of the frequency asked questions we receive. Our RTA Expert in this episode is Sam Galer - Manager - Customer Experience.