Australian landlord compliance checklist
Residential tenancy law in Australia is state and territory based, so every item below has a local version with its own forms, deadlines and dollar limits. Use this list per property, against the rules of its state.
Before the tenancy
The bond is lodged with the state bond authority within the required timeframe, 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.
During the tenancy
Entry notices use the correct form, ground and notice period for the state, and inspection frequency stays within the limit.
Rent increases follow the state frequency limit and notice period, and 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.
Agencies and money
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.
AML/CTF obligations are assessed now that Tranche 2 captures real estate professionals.
This is general information, not legal advice. Rules differ by state and territory and change; confirm the current requirements with the local tenancy authority or a qualified adviser.
General information, not legal or financial advice.