Before you begin your search, it’s important to think about what kind of rental property would best suit your needs and lifestyle. Our choosing a rental property checklist can help you start thinking about what might matter most depending on your circumstances.

Once you’ve narrowed down what kinds of properties would be suitable, it can also be helpful to research average rental prices in your area. Our median rents quick finder provides a good indication of what you can expect to pay for your preferred property type in a particular postcode.

There's a few things to keep in mind once you’re ready to start looking for a rental property.

Firstly, rent bidding is illegal in Queensland. This means properties must be advertised at a fixed price, and property managers/owners cannot proactively tell rental applicants to offer over the advertised rental price and encourage them to outbid each other. However, tenants/residents can choose to offer more than the advertised rent or even offer rent in advance, if they like.

Secondly, it’s important to remember that rental scams have been increasing over the past few years. Recovering losses can be a long and drawn-out process, so we recommend doing your research on the property and the listed provider, and inspecting the property in person if possible.

Finally, if you have any questions about the rental property, ask the property manager or owner. You may need to clarify what utilities will be included or services that need to be connected. It’s best to ask now and know upfront, in case this impacts your decision or budget down the track.

Before you enter into a tenancy agreement, the property manager/owner must provide you with a written tenancy agreement. This is a legally binding contract, so it’s important to read the document in full before signing and providing any rent or bond money. Our new tenant checklist can help you understand what to look at before committing to the tenancy.

Either on or before the day you move into your rental property, the property manager/owner must then provide you with a copy of:

• the signed tenancy agreement
• the entry condition report
• the pocket guide for tenants (units and houses) or the pocket guide for tenants caravan parks)
• a receipt for any money you paid, including the rental bond payment if this was submitted to the RTA on your behalf (noting tenants can also lodge their bond directly via RTA Web Services, if preferred)
• a copy of any body corporate bylaws, park rules or house rules relevant to your type of accommodation.

Together, these documents will help you understand your rights and responsibilities under the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008.

Our website has a wide range of information, forms and resources designed to help you self-service any queries you have throughout your tenancy.

Can’t find what you’re looking for? You can contact us in person and over the phone Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5.00pm.