Overview
For many folks, renting is one of life's unpleasant necessities, and it comes with plenty of grief. If you've ever been forced to beg your landlord to fix faulty lighting — you know, so you can see at night-time and just generally live in a safe environment — or desperately wanted to do something as simple as getting a pet or hanging a picture on your wall, then you'll understand. But in good news, the Queensland Government is looking at shaking up the state's tenancy laws.
As reported by The Courier-Mail, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced a tenancy legislation review, called Open Doors to Renting Reform. It will consult with renters, landlords and real estate agents about common issues, and marks the first major review to existing laws since the 70s.
Items under consideration include making it easier for tenants to add homely touches, such as putting nails in the wall to hang pictures and posters — and trying to increase the number of properties that allow furry four-legged friends. Crucially, ensuring that urgent repairs are made when requested by renters is also on the agenda.
The reviews will look at concerns raised by property owners as well, including the level of rental bonds and the frequency of inspections.
While a timeline for enacting any legislative amendments hasn't been revealed, the move comes just weeks after the Victorian Government passed its own rental changes. Many of the same matters are set to be enshrined into law down south, including no less than 100 reforms aiming to increase Victorian renters' rights and protect tenants in vulnerable positions.
Via The Courier-Mail. Image kgbo via Wikicommons.