Guide to Repairs and Maintenance for ACT Tenants

Renting a home in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) means understanding your rights and responsibilities when it comes to repairs, maintenance, and urgent issues. As a tenant, it's crucial to know when and how to request repairs, what constitutes an urgent repair, and how to resolve disputes with landlords.

Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities

In the ACT, the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 outlines the obligations of both landlords and tenants regarding property upkeep. Tenants must report damage to the landlord as soon as possible to ensure that repairs are carried out promptly.

Types of Repairs

There are two primary types of repairs tenants should be aware of:

• General Repairs: These include non-urgent issues that do not pose immediate threats to health or safety, such as a broken window lock or malfunctioning stove.
• Urgent Repairs: Defined by the Residential Tenancies Act 1997, urgent repairs are those necessary to avoid significant property damage or address health and safety threats. Examples include burst water pipes or electrical faults.

Requesting Repairs

Tenants should report repair needs in writing to their landlord or property manager. Providing a clear, detailed description of the issue, along with any photographic evidence, can help expedite the process.

Tip: Keep a copy of all communication with your landlord regarding repair requests for future reference.

Action Steps for Urgent Repairs

1. Contact your landlord immediately to report the issue. If they do not respond within 24–48 hours, proceed with the next steps.
2. Request an urgent repair using Form 3 from the ACT Tenants Union if the landlord fails to address the issue swiftly. The form ensures your request is officially recorded.
3. Apply to the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) if the landlord does not take action. ACAT can order the landlord to carry out repairs.

For urgent repairs not addressed promptly, completing the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal Application Form is recommended.

Resolving Disputes

If disputes arise regarding repairs, the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 offers tenants a framework for resolution. Tenants can seek mediation or a tribunal hearing through ACAT.

1. What constitutes an urgent repair?

   Urgent repairs include any faults that pose safety risks or could cause significant damage, like gas leaks or electrical faults.

2. How should you request repairs?

   Always request repairs in writing, providing details and photos where possible, and keep a copy for your records.

3. What if the landlord refuses to make repairs?

   Apply to ACAT for intervention. The tribunal can order the landlord to carry out necessary repairs.

1. How to request urgent repairs in the ACT
   1. Contact the landlord quickly: Urgently report the repair need via call, text, or email.
   2. Submit Form 3: If ignored, fill out and send Form 3 from the ACT Tenants Union to your landlord.
   3. Apply to ACAT: Use the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal Application if necessary repairs aren't made.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the difference between general and urgent repairs.
• Always report repair issues promptly and keep evidence of communications.
• Utilize ACAT for disputes and unresolved repair needs.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you need additional information or assistance, the following resources can provide support:

• Tenants' Union ACT: Offers free legal advice and resources for tenants
• ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT): Handles disputes and can order repairs
• Access Canberra: Provides a range of government information and services for Canberra residents

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1. Residential Tenancies Act 1997

2. ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) Application Form

3. Urgent Repairs, Residential Tenancies Act 1997

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