SHONKY backpacker accommodation providers have been warned they risk a tragedy similar to the Childers fire in 2000, which claimed 15 lives.

As part of a crackdown into an ongoing overcrowding problem, Southern Downs Regional Council Mayor Peter Blundell says the council has a "zero tolerance stance" and big fines can be issued for non-compliance.

The council yesterday revealed both it and the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service have this year inspected dozens of properties in the Warwick and Stanthorpe regions being used to house foreign and Australian seasonal workers.

Some conditions have shocked inspectors, with single car garages in some cases converted into sleeping quarters for eight or more people, with the only access a roller-door.

Other cases uncovered include garages sealed off from the outside with tiny doorways for access, along with overloaded septic tanks and raw sewage spilling near living areas.

A council spokeswoman yesterday said officers feared a tragic event similar to Childers "unless something is done very quickly to stop the overcrowding of backpackers into houses and sheds".

"The Childers fire killed 15 backpackers and is a savage reminder of the dangers," she said.

"It's also a warning that unless proper precautions are taken, crowded accommodation facilities can be extremely dangerous.

"Our local inspections found many instances of houses being grossly overcrowded, and not only safety hazards in terms of fire but also health hazards.

"Owners of these premises have a responsibility for the health and safety of occupants.

"However council has found a number of owners have been unaware their premises are being used illegally, and contrary to the conditions of their lease, in terms of the number of people residing."

The spokeswoman warned any owners or real estate agents leasing and managing "death traps" had a responsibility to ensure the maximum number of occupants was not exceeded.

Cr Blundell said the council would not compromise safety by allowing the crisis to continue.

"Backpackers are an important part of our economy and are crucial for picking and packing fruit and vegetables during the harvest season," he said.

"They should be treated with the same respect as anyone else, but instead many live in dangerous, unhealthy and substandard circumstances.

"A fine of up to $180,000 may be imposed for non-compliance with an infringement notice."

Cr Blundell urged the community to be vigilant and to "keep an eye out for houses or sheds where backpackers appear to be living in unsafe conditions".

"The Childers fire left a chilling legacy and devastated family, friends and the Childers community," he said.

"We do not want this to happen here."

The council spokeswoman said 23 properties had been inspected in January and February by the council alone, and 11 property owners had been sent "compliance letters".

Real estate agent Helen Harm said she was "extremely vigilant" when it came to looking after rental properties.

"I am fairly particular with tenants," she said.

"I routinely do three-monthly inspections.

"I am always aware of what's going on, who is living there and have emergency contacts for all occupants."

Mrs Harm said problems didn't occur with reputable agents.

"If all rules and regulations are followed then this shouldn't happen," she said.

"I keep up to date with all the rules and regulations.

"It's not just for the benefit of us or the owners or tenants; it's for the whole community."

Dob in shonky premises by calling the council on 4661 0300 (Warwick office) or 4681 5500 (Stanthorpe).