Handling Repairs, Maintenance & Urgent Issues Disputes in ACT

As a renter in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), knowing how to manage repairs, maintenance, and urgent issues disputes with your landlord is crucial. Whether it's a leaky tap or a broken heater in winter, addressing these concerns promptly protects both your wellbeing and your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.

Your Responsibilities and Rights as a Renter

Understanding your responsibilities and rights is essential when dealing with rental issues. As a tenant, you're expected to keep the property reasonably clean and report any needed repairs to your landlord. However, landlords must ensure the premises are in a reasonable state of repair. This obligation remains, even if you knew about an issue before leasing.

Urgent vs. Non-Urgent Repairs

It is important to differentiate between urgent and non-urgent repairs. Urgent repairs are those that impact the safety or security of the property, such as a malfunctioning security system or a significant leak. The Residential Tenancies Act 1997 requires these be addressed promptly.

• Urgent Repairs: Examples include no hot water, gas leaks, or electrical faults. Landlords must handle these repairs immediately.
• Non-Urgent Repairs: Such issues, like peeling paint or general wear and tear, can be scheduled at a later, convenient time for both parties.

Steps to Resolve Repair Disputes

If disputes arise regarding repair responsibilities or delays, follow these steps to seek resolution:

• Communicate: Inform your landlord in writing about the issue. Detail the problem's nature and why it needs urgent attention.
• Use Form 19: If the landlord fails to act on urgent repairs, submit a Dispute Resolution Form 19 to the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT). This form initiates tribunal intervention for unresolved repair issues.
• Document: Keep a record of repairs requests and communications with your landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you're struggling to resolve a dispute, consider seeking help from these resources:

• ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT): Handles tenancy disputes in Canberra.
• Tenants' Union ACT: Offers free advice and support for renters in the ACT.
• Residential Tenancies Act 1997: Set of laws governing rental agreements in the ACT.

---

1. What qualifies as an urgent repair? Urgent repairs are issues that pose a safety risk or affect your living conditions, such as a broken heater in winter.
2. How should I contact my landlord about repairs? Written communication is recommended to ensure there's a record of your requests.
3. What can I do if my landlord doesn't respond? Use the Dispute Resolution Form 19 to take your case to the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

1. How to file a Dispute Resolution Form 19 in the ACT
   1. Download or obtain the Form 19 from the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal website.
   2. Fill out your details and the details of the dispute, providing evidence if applicable.
   3. Submit the form in person or via mail, after confirming the correct submission process from the ACAT website.

Key Takeaways

• Document all communication with your landlord regarding repairs.
• Know when to escalate an issue to the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
• Utilize resources like Tenants' Union ACT for advice and support.

---

• Refer to the ACT Website for detailed information on tenant rights and responsibilities: Residential Tenancies Act 1997.

Categories

General Tenant Rights & Protections Tenancy Agreements & Renewals Rent, Bond & Holding Deposits Moving In & Condition Reports Ending a Tenancy & Moving Out Repairs, Maintenance & Urgent Issues Minimum Standards & Habitability Evictions & Breach Notices Co-Tenancies, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Equal Housing Access Disability Access & Reasonable Adjustments Utilities, Water & Internet Billing Public, Community & Social Housing Rent Increases & Rent Controls Privacy & Landlord Entry Rules Locks, Keys & Security Obligations Resolving Disputes & Tribunal Processes Harassment, Threats & Landlord Misconduct Boarding Houses, Rooming Houses & Lodgers Caravan Parks & Residential Parks Bond Refunds & Claims Notice Periods & Tenancy Termination Entry Condition Breaches & Compensation Tenant Advocacy & Legal Aid