Understanding Repairs & Maintenance in ACT Rentals

As a renter in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding repairs and maintenance is crucial for ensuring a safe and habitable living environment. Whether you're dealing with minor maintenance or urgent issues, knowing the proper steps and legal framework can protect you and your property.

What Are the Responsibilities for Repairs?

Both landlords and tenants have specific responsibilities when it comes to property repairs under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997. Landlords are generally responsible for ensuring the property is maintained in a safe condition, which includes conducting necessary repairs. Tenants, on the other hand, must keep the property reasonably clean and report any issues promptly.

Submitting a Repair Request

If you encounter a repair issue, you should notify your landlord or property manager in writing. The Tenant Notice to Remedy Breach form can be useful if the landlord fails to carry out necessary repairs promptly. You can access the form from the ACT Government website.

Understanding Urgent Repairs

Urgent repairs are those necessary to fix critical issues that may pose safety risks or significant damage to the property. Examples include burst water pipes or dangerous electrical faults.

How to Handle Urgent Repairs

If urgent repairs are needed, tenants should contact the landlord immediately. According to the Residential Tenancies Act 1997, if the landlord cannot be reached, tenants may arrange for urgent repairs themselves, up to the value of two weeks' rent, and seek reimbursement.

Tip: Always keep a record of any communication with your landlord regarding repairs and maintenance to protect your legal interests.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal - Handles residential tenancy disputes.
• Tenants' Union ACT - Offers advice and advocacy for renters.
• ACT Legislation Register - Provides access to current ACT legislation.

---

1. What qualifies as an urgent repair in the ACT? An urgent repair is one that affects safety or the property condition, such as a gas leak or electrical fault.
2. How long does a landlord have to make repairs in the ACT? The timeframe depends on the type of repair but generally should be within seven days.
3. Can I withhold rent if repairs are not done? Withholding rent is not recommended. Instead, contact the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal for assistance.

1. How to report a repair issue
   1. Notify your landlord or property manager in writing about the issue.
   2. Fill out the Tenant Notice to Remedy Breach form if necessary.
   3. Keep records of all communications and responses.
2. How to handle urgent repairs
   1. Contact your landlord immediately.
   2. Arrange for emergency services if necessary and keep receipts.
   3. Submit a reimbursement request to your landlord, ensuring it does not exceed two weeks' rent.

Key Takeaways

• Both tenants and landlords have specific responsibilities for property maintenance under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.
• Ensure you report issues promptly using appropriate forms to facilitate repairs.
• Contact relevant authorities or resources if disputes arise or if urgent repairs are necessary.

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act 1997 - ACT legislation governing residential tenancies.
2. Tenant Notice to Remedy Breach - Official form for notifying landlords of required repairs.
3. ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal - Handles tenancy disputes in the ACT.

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