Tasmanian Renters: Addressing Repairs and Urgent Issues

Renting a home in Tasmania comes with its own set of responsibilities for both tenants and landlords, especially regarding repairs and maintenance. Understanding your rights and obligations can help ensure a safe and habitable living environment.

Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities

Both tenants and landlords have specific duties when it comes to maintaining a rental property in Tasmania. According to the Residential Tenancy Act 1997, landlords are primarily responsible for ensuring the property is in good condition and safe for occupancy.

• Landlord duties: Ensure the property meets health and safety standards, respond to repair requests quickly, and maintain all aspects of the property that could affect the tenant's living conditions.
• Tenant duties: Keep the property clean, report any damages or issues promptly, and avoid causing damage beyond normal wear and tear.

Handling Repairs

In Tasmania, repair needs are classified into two categories: urgent and non-urgent repairs. Understanding the difference can help you decide the best course of action.

Urgent Repairs

Urgent repairs are those that make the property uninhabitable or unsafe, such as a gas leak, a burst water service, or serious electrical faults. These require immediate action. Tenants should contact their landlord as soon as possible, and landlords are obligated to handle these repairs swiftly.

Non-Urgent Repairs

Non-urgent repairs are issues that do not pose immediate danger or make the property uninhabitable, like a broken cupboard door or a dripping tap. Although these repairs are less critical, landlords must attend to them within a reasonable timeframe after being notified by the tenant.

Filing a Repair Request

When you identify a problem, use the official Notice to the Owner/Agent of the Need for Repairs form to request repairs from your landlord. This form helps to document your request in writing, providing proof of notification.

You can access the formal notice for repairs here.

Steps to Take if Repairs Aren't Made

If repairs are not addressed in a timely manner, tenants may apply to the Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal for a resolution.

Submit an application to the Tribunal if your landlord fails to make urgent repairs promptly, or if non-urgent repairs remain unresolved after notifying the landlord.

1. Contact the landlord or agent to follow up on the repair request.
2. If no response, document all communication attempts.
3. Submit an application to the Tribunal, including evidence such as the original repair notice and any follow-up communications.

1. Contact the landlord or agent to follow up on the repair request.
2. If no response, document all communication attempts.
3. Submit an application to the Tribunal, including evidence such as the original repair notice and any follow-up communications.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Consumer, Building and Occupational Services - Offers advice and information on rent-related issues.
• Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (TASCAT) - Handles disputes related to tenancy, including repairs and maintenance issues.
• Tenants' Union of Tasmania: Provides free legal advice and resources for tenants needing assistance.

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1. What are urgent repairs in Tasmania?Urgent repairs are issues that make the property unsafe or uninhabitable, such as plumbing issues or electrical faults.
2. How can I request a non-urgent repair?Use the Notice to the Owner/Agent form and provide a reasonable timeframe for the repairs to be made.
3. What if my repairs aren't addressed?If repairs aren't made in a reasonable time, you can apply to the TASCAT for resolution.

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