Australian landlord compliance checklist

The bond is within the state cap, four weeks' rent in New South Wales and Queensland, and is lodged with the state bond authority on time: in New South Wales within 10 working days of payment to a landlord, or 10 working days after the end of the month when paid to an agent. It is never held privately.

An ingoing condition report is completed, photographed and exchanged within the state deadline.

The property meets the state minimum standards, which increasingly cover heating, cooling, locks and ventilation.

Smoke alarms comply with the state rules, including interconnection and servicing requirements where they apply.

Pool and spa barriers hold a current compliance certificate where the state requires one.

Entry notices use the correct form, ground and notice period for the state, and inspection frequency stays within the limit.

Rent is increased no more than once every 12 months. Notice is 60 days in New South Wales, 90 days in Victoria and two months in Queensland, where the 12 months attach to the property rather than the tenancy. Weekly rent is quoted per local convention.

Water usage is only charged where the property meets the water-efficiency requirements.

Urgent repairs are actioned within the state's definition and timeframes, with records kept.

Trust accounts are maintained, reconciled and audited as the state licensing law requires.

Staff hold the required registrations or licences for property management work in the state.

Anti-money laundering duties are assessed: since 1 July 2026 a business that brokers the sale, purchase or transfer of real estate is regulated by AUSTRAC and had to enrol by 29 July 2026. An agency that sells as well as lets is caught, and should confirm the position for its letting work against AUSTRAC's real estate guidance.