FAQs on Disability Access for QLD Tenants

Renting a home in Queensland should be an inclusive experience, especially for tenants with disabilities. Understanding your rights and options under Queensland law can help ensure that your rental property meets your accessibility needs.

Understanding Your Rights as a Tenant with Disabilities in Queensland

Tenants with disabilities have specific rights when it comes to accessibility and reasonable adjustments in rental properties. The Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (Qld) outlines these rights and the responsibilities of landlords to accommodate them.

What Constitutes a Reasonable Adjustment?

A reasonable adjustment is any modification or provision that enables a person with a disability to use and enjoy their rental premises. These adjustments should be practical, taking into account the needs of the tenant and the capacity of the landlord to make these adjustments without incurring unreasonable hardship.

Requesting Modifications

Tenants can request modifications to their rental property to improve accessibility. This process involves discussing the necessary adjustments with the landlord and coming to an agreement. In Queensland, the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) supports tenants and landlords with resolving disputes if agreements can't be reached.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Form 20 - Request for Approval to Alter Premises: Use this form to formally request permission from your landlord to make adjustments to your home. Include specific details about the adjustments and any supporting medical documentation.

This form can be submitted online or in hard copy. For instance, if a tenant requires a ramp for wheelchair access, they would describe this need in detail on the form along with any supporting medical evidence, then submit it to their landlord for approval.

Legislation Supporting Tenant Rights

Under the Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth) and Queensland's Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008, tenants are protected against discrimination and have the right to request reasonable modifications.

1. How can I ensure my rental property is accessible? Ensure that any adjustments needed are clearly communicated and agreed upon with your landlord. You might need to submit a request using Form 20 for approval.
2. What if my landlord refuses to allow adjustments? If a landlord refuses a reasonable request, you can apply to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) for mediation or a hearing to resolve the issue.
3. Are landlords obligated to cover the cost of adjustments? Typically, the costs of installing and removing modifications fall to the tenant unless otherwise agreed upon. Always discuss financial responsibilities upfront.

1. How to request a property modification in Queensland?
   1. Discuss your needs with the landlord to find a mutual agreement on the modifications required.
   2. Complete and submit Form 20 to request approval for modifications, detailing the changes needed and any supporting documentation.
   3. If disagreements arise, contact QCAT for mediation services.

Key Takeaways

• Tenants can request reasonable modifications under Queensland law.
• Open communication with landlords is essential for property modifications.
• Tools like QCAT are available to resolve disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you're facing challenges with accessibility in your rental, these resources can help:

• Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT)
• Tenants Queensland - Advocacy and support
• Community Legal Centres Queensland - Legal advice and assistance

---

1. "Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (Qld)."
2. "Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth)."
3. "Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT)."

Categories

General Tenant Rights & Protections Tenancy Agreements & Renewals Rent, Bond & Holding Deposits Moving In & Condition Reports Ending a Tenancy & Moving Out Repairs, Maintenance & Urgent Issues Minimum Standards & Habitability Evictions & Breach Notices Co-Tenancies, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Equal Housing Access Disability Access & Reasonable Adjustments Utilities, Water & Internet Billing Public, Community & Social Housing Rent Increases & Rent Controls Privacy & Landlord Entry Rules Locks, Keys & Security Obligations Resolving Disputes & Tribunal Processes Harassment, Threats & Landlord Misconduct Boarding Houses, Rooming Houses & Lodgers Caravan Parks & Residential Parks Bond Refunds & Claims Notice Periods & Tenancy Termination Entry Condition Breaches & Compensation Tenant Advocacy & Legal Aid