Guide for Tenants in Caravan Parks & Long-Stay Rentals in Queensland

In Queensland, living in a caravan park or residential park comes with specific rights and responsibilities. Understanding these is crucial for any tenant to ensure they are treated fairly and know their options should any issues arise. Whether it's understanding how long-stay agreements work, handling potential rent increases, or knowing what happens if you face eviction, this guide provides key insights tailored to tenants in Queensland's residential parks.

Residential Parks and Your Rights

Tenancies in caravan parks and residential parks in Queensland are governed by the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008. This Act provides the legal framework for agreements between tenants and park owners, ensuring protections around habitation, termination, and the handling of disputes.

Long-Stay Agreements

A long-stay tenancy agreement is a written contract between a tenant and a park owner specifying the terms under which a tenant can reside in the park. These agreements cover aspects such as rent, service charges, and maintenance responsibilities.

• Assured Tenure: Long-stay agreements often provide a form of assured tenure, meaning you can stay for the full term of the agreement unless you breach specific terms.
• Retained Rights: Even if changes occur within the park, your agreement safeguards your tenancy rights, unless mutually altered.

Rent Increases

Rent in residential parks can only be increased in accordance with the terms specified in your agreement. Typically, a park owner must provide prior written notice of any increase, usually at least 60 days in advance.

Dealing with Disputes

Should any disputes arise, the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) serves as the primary body for resolving tenancy-related issues. Whether it's a disagreement over a rent increase or issues with maintenance, QCAT provides an accessible, effective avenue for seeking resolution.

Eviction and Termination

Eviction from a caravan or residential park must adhere to specifics laid out in your tenancy agreement and Queensland legislation. Generally, the park owner must have a valid reason to terminate your stay, which must be accompanied by appropriate notice.

Official Forms and Actions

Being familiar with the necessary legal forms can significantly ease interactions with park management. Here are some key forms:

• Form 12 - Notice to Leave: Issued by the property owner if they seek to end your tenancy for a specified reason. Can be referred on the Queensland Government's site.
• Form 16 - Dispute Resolution Request: Utilized if seeking intervention in a tenancy dispute. Available on the Queensland Government portal.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you need more advice or assistance regarding your tenancy, these resources can help:

• Queensland Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) – Offers comprehensive support and mediation in rental disputes.
• Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) - Handles tenancy dispute resolutions.
• Tenants Queensland - Provides advocacy and information services for renters.

---

1. What should I do if my rent is increased without notice? You have the right to dispute this through the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) and may consider lodging a case with QCAT if the issue is unresolved.
2. Can my park owner evict me without cause? No, evictions must be based on stipulated grounds as per your tenancy agreement and require appropriate notice.
3. How do I lodge a dispute? You can complete a Form 16 - Dispute Resolution Request to commence the process through the RTA.

1. How to respond to a Notice to Leave due to a breach in Queensland?
   1. Step 1: Review the Notice to Leave and the alleged breach details.
   2. Step 2: Address the issue or dispute the claim with evidence.
   3. Step 3: Contact the RTA for assistance if no resolution is achieved.
2. How to lodge a dispute in Queensland:
   1. Step 1: Gather all relevant documentation and evidence pertaining to your grievance.
   2. Step 2: Complete and submit Form 16 - Dispute Resolution Request.
   3. Step 3: Follow up with the RTA for guidance on next steps or QCAT involvement.

Key Takeaways

• Understand your long-stay agreement to safeguard your rights.
• Use provided legal forms to address and resolve disputes effectively.
• Rely on local agencies and tribunals like the RTA and QCAT for support.

---

1. Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008. Queensland Government. 2. Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT). Queensland Government. 3. Queensland Government's rental forms page.

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