Law-change explainer
The 48-hour entry-notice change, without the shortcuts
Many Queensland entry grounds moved from 24 to 48 hours on 1 May 2025, but routine inspections, emergencies and agreed entry still need to be checked separately.
What the reform did
From 1 May 2025, the minimum notice for many entries to a Queensland rental increased from 24 to 48 hours. That includes common grounds such as routine repairs and maintenance, checking completed repairs, valuations and certain individual viewings. The change gives renters more time to read the notice and make practical arrangements.
It did not create one universal 48-hour rule. A routine inspection generally requires seven days' notice unless another time is agreed, and it is ordinarily limited by the three-month inspection-frequency rule. Emergencies and entry by agreement have their own treatment. Always begin with the exact reason marked on the current Form 9.
What remains important on Form 9
Check the property address, reason, date, time or two-hour commencement window, issuer and delivery timing. Unless the renter agrees, ordinary entry is generally not scheduled on Sundays or public holidays, before 8 am or after 6 pm. A longer notice period does not make an otherwise unlawful reason valid.
If the proposed time creates a genuine problem, respond promptly and offer alternatives. A renter usually does not have to be home for a valid entry, so simply saying nobody will be present may not resolve it. Keep the notice and written exchange together.
Extra limits after an ending notice
After either side serves a Notice to leave (Form 12) or Notice of intention to leave (Form 13), the RTA says the managing party generally cannot enter more than twice within a seven-day period. Listed exceptions apply, including entry by mutual agreement and certain smoke-alarm obligations. For viewings, an open house still requires the renter's agreement; otherwise, properly noticed individual viewings may be arranged.
Keep a calendar of notices and actual entries. If a pattern appears excessive or the stated purpose is not respected, raise the dates and reasons in writing and seek RTA or QSTARS guidance. Avoid turning a practical entry dispute into a physical confrontation.
Official source checked
RTA — Entry to the property