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Thinking of Ending a Tenancy in Brisbane? Here's What You Need to Know
Whether you are a tenant or a Brisbane property owner, ending a tenancy is not as simple as returning the keys. There are legal notice periods, forms, and timelines that must be followed, and getting them wrong can cost you time, money, and may even lead to disputes.
This guide outlines key points on notice periods, open homes, vacating responsibilities, and bond refunds, all tailored to Brisbane’s rental laws, so you can move forward with confidence.
Ending a tenancy in Brisbane comes with clear rules and timeframes that both tenants and landlords must follow.
Whether you're a renter or a property owner, it's important to use the correct form and notice period, otherwise, the other party may be entitled to compensation.
📮 Tip: If you're serving notice by post, be sure to allow extra time for delivery when calculating the end date. 🔁 After a tenant or owner gives notice (Form 12 or 13), limits apply to how often the property can be accessed. For more details, talk to Arvarni.
A tenancy agreement is a legally binding contract, and when it comes to the end of a fixed-term lease, there are a few options available. You can:
End the tenancy altogether
Start a new fixed-term lease
Let it roll into a periodic tenancy
Either the tenant or the property manager/owner can take steps to end the tenancy, but it must be done correctly and in line with Queensland’s rental laws.
Open houses and viewings
Open homes or inspections can only take place after the correct Entry Notice has been issued to the tenant, in line with the required timeframes set by the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA).
Photos used for marketing must not include the tenant’s personal belongings unless they agree in writing.
Arvarni Tip: We always coordinate viewings with respect and minimum disruption — because that’s just good management.
Overview of the vacating process
Notice to end tenancy has been given or received.
Checklist Move out and clean property.
Check your rent has been paid to the vacating date, and all outstanding invoices are paid.
Complete exit condition report
Hand over All keys/ remotes associated with the property to the managing agent.
Vacate inspection
RTA bond refund process
Bond refunds
When all parties agree on the Exit Condition Report, the bond is typically refunded within 3 to 10 business days.
If there's a dispute about cleaning, damage, or unpaid rent, the matter may be reviewed by the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) or escalated to QCAT (Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal).
