Guide to Repairs and Maintenance for Renters in NSW

As a renter in New South Wales, understanding your rights and responsibilities concerning repairs, maintenance, and urgent issues is crucial. The Residential Tenancies Act 2010 details these, ensuring renters live in safe, habitable conditions. This article provides a step-by-step guide to help you navigate repair issues efficiently and legally.

Identifying Urgent Repairs

Urgent repairs are those necessary to avoid harm to the tenant or damage to the property, such as a burst water pipe or gas leak. Remember, getting these addressed promptly is crucial.

Examples of Urgent Repairs

• Burst water systems
• Gas leaks
• Blocked toilets (if there is only one toilet in the premise)
• Serious roof leaks

Requesting a Repair

When a repair is needed, follow these steps to request it from your landlord:

1. Notify the landlord: Contact your landlord or property manager in writing, specifying the issue and requesting a repair.
2. Use the official form: It's beneficial to submit a Repair Request Form. You can download it from the NSW Fair Trading website [Repair Request Form](https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-property/renting). This form is designed to clearly articulate your repair needs.
3. Keep records: Document all communications regarding the repair request to ensure there's a record.

What to Do If Repairs Aren’t Made

If necessary repairs are not addressed, you have options for escalation:

• Mediation: Contact NSW Fair Trading for dispute resolution services.
• Tribunal Application: If mediation fails, apply to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) for orders directing the landlord to undertake the repairs.

Always refer back to relevant legislation such as the Residential Tenancies Act 2010 for guidance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you need further information or assistance, consider reaching out to:

• NSW Fair Trading for tenancy advice and complaint services.
• NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal for dispute resolutions.
• Local community legal centres for advice and support.

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1. Can a landlord refuse to do repairs in NSW? No, landlords are obligated under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010 to keep the property in a reasonable state of repair, considering its age and prospective life.
2. What are my options if repairs aren't done? If repairs are not made, you can apply to NCAT for a resolution.
3. Are tenants responsible for any repairs? Tenants must keep the property reasonably clean and notify the landlord promptly of any damage, but they are not generally responsible for structural repairs unless they caused the damage.

1. How to Report a Repair Needing Urgent Attention
   1. Step 1: Identify the urgency - Determine if the repair is urgent (e.g., health/safety risk).
   2. Step 2: Notify immediately - Contact your landlord/property manager via phone or text for immediate action.
2. How to Apply for Tribunal Orders for Repair Issues
   1. Step 1: Collect evidence - Document repair issues and attempt to resolve them through the landlord.
   2. Step 2: Submit an application - File a form with NCAT to request orders for repairs.

Consistency and clarity are key to effectively navigating repair requests and ensuring renters in New South Wales live in safe, well-maintained homes. Always ensure requests are documented and understand your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010.

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1. NSW Fair Trading
2. NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal
3. Residential Tenancies Act 2010

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