Landlord Violations: Co-Tenancies & Subletting in QLD

As a tenant in Queensland, understanding your rights and responsibilities under co-tenancy and subletting agreements is crucial. With specific laws protecting renters, it's important to know whether your landlord is breaching these regulations. By familiarizing yourself with the legal framework and the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008, you can ensure a harmonious living arrangement.

Understanding Co-Tenancy & Subletting Laws in Queensland

In Queensland, co-tenancies and subletting are governed by the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 20081. The Act lays out the rights and obligations of both tenants and landlords, providing a structured approach to shared housing arrangements:

  • Co-Tenancy Agreement: All tenants are responsible for the entire rental amount and must work together to fulfill the lease terms.
  • Subletting: This occurs when a tenant rents part or all of the property to another person. Landlords must provide written consent before a tenant can sublet.

Signs Your Landlord May Be Violating the Law

It's important to recognize signs that your landlord might be infringing on these laws:

  • Denying reasonable subletting requests without valid reasons
  • Failing to provide written consent or unreasonable delays
  • Attempting to enforce unauthorized additional charges
Tip: Always request consent for subletting in writing and keep a copy for your records.

Taking Action: What to Do If You Suspect a Violation

If you suspect your landlord is violating co-tenancy or subletting laws, take the following steps:

  1. Review Your Agreement: Carefully examine your tenancy agreement to understand your rights and obligations.
  2. Communicate in Writing: Contact your landlord in writing to address the issue and request a resolution.
  3. File a Dispute: If unresolved, you can file a dispute with the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT)2 for further assistance.

Relevant Forms for Tenants

Using the right forms can strengthen your position in a dispute:

  • Form 19 – Entry Notice: Used when the landlord wishes to enter the rented premises. Available on the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) website.
  • Form 16 – Dispute Resolution Request: Use this form to initiate a dispute resolution process through the RTA.

FAQ Section

  1. What is the difference between co-tenancy and subletting?Co-tenancy involves multiple tenants sharing a lease, while subletting allows a tenant to rent part or all of a property to another person with the landlord's permission.
  2. How can I request permission to sublet?You should submit a written request to your landlord, outlining your subletting proposal and the potential subtenant's details.
  3. What happens if my landlord refuses to allow subletting?If the refusal is unreasonable and affects your rights, you may seek resolution through the RTA or QCAT.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you're facing issues with co-tenancies or subletting, consider contacting:


If you believe your tenancy rights are being violated, understanding the Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth)3 can also provide additional protections.

Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Australia

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.