SA Tenant Guide: Repairs & Urgent Issues

As a renter in South Australia, understanding your rights and responsibilities in relation to property repairs, maintenance, and urgent issues is crucial. The Residential Tenancies Act 1995 sets out clear guidelines for landlords and tenants to ensure a safe and habitable living environment.

Types of Repairs and Maintenance

In South Australia, repairs are classified into two main categories: general repairs and urgent repairs. Each has different processes and urgency levels.

General Repairs

General repairs are non-urgent in nature and typically include issues like minor plumbing leaks, broken fixtures, or cosmetic damages. Tenants should notify their landlord or property manager in writing as soon as possible. The landlord is obliged to address these repairs within a reasonable time frame.

Urgent Repairs

Urgent repairs involve safety concerns or essential services. Examples include gas leaks, burst water pipes, broken heating systems in winter, and serious electrical faults. Tenants should inform the landlord or property manager immediately and request prompt attention to the repair. According to the Residential Tenancies Act 1995, landlords are required to respond quickly to urgent repair requests.

If the landlord fails to address urgent repairs within a given period, tenants may engage a licensed tradesperson to carry out the repairs. Tenants are entitled to reimbursement up to a specified amount for these expenses, which can be further explored in the Residential Tenancies Act 1995.

For urgent repair reimbursement, keep all receipts and evidence of attempts to contact your landlord.

Action Steps for Tenants

If you need to take action regarding repairs, follow these steps:

1. Document the Issue: Take photos and note down details of the repair needed.
2. Contact the Landlord: Reach out via email or letter with a description of the repair and request for action.
3. Allow Time: Give a reasonable period for the landlord to address non-urgent repairs.
4. Follow Up: If no response, send a follow-up message as a gentle reminder.
5. Use Available Forms: Consider filing a repair notice or applying for assistance through tenant advocacy services if necessary.

Resolving Disputes

Conflicts over repairs can be unsettling. If disputes arise, contact Consumer and Business Services (CBS), the official body for resolving tenancy disputes in South Australia.

Ensure you have documented every communication with your landlord regarding the repair issue to present a comprehensive case if needed.

1. What are urgent repairs? Urgent repairs address issues affecting safety or essential services, like gas leaks or broken water systems.
2. How do I request a repair? Notify your landlord in writing with a clear description of the issue. Use email or written letters for records.
3. What if my landlord doesn’t respond to repair requests? Send a follow-up request and consider applying to the South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT) for assistance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you need support, consider reaching out to:

• Consumer and Business Services (CBS): Guidance on tenant rights and dispute resolution.
• South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT): Application for resolving tenancy disputes.
• Tenants Information and Advisory Service (TIAS): Free advice for tenants in South Australia.

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1. [1] South Australian Residential Tenancies Act 1995
2. [2] Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth)

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