FAQs on Repairs and Maintenance for Tasmanian Renters

Renting a property in Tasmania comes with its own set of responsibilities and rights, especially when it comes to maintenance and repairs. Understanding these can help ensure your home stays safe and comfortable.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

As a tenant in Tasmania, you have the right to a safe and habitable living environment. Similarly, you're responsible for notifying your landlord of any necessary repairs or maintenance.

What Constitutes Urgent Repairs?

Urgent repairs are issues that can affect your safety or security or those that can cause significant property damage. Examples include:

• A burst water service or serious water leak
• A blocked or broken toilet system
• A serious roof leak
• A dangerous electrical fault
• Flooding or serious flood damage
• Gas leak

Steps to Request Repairs

If repairs are needed, follow these steps:

1. Notify the landlord or agent in writing as soon as possible.
2. Use the Notice to Owner of Residential Premises form to formally request repairs.
3. If urgent repairs are needed, the landlord must respond promptly. For non-urgent repairs, they typically have 14 days.

"It's crucial to document all communication with your landlord about repairs, including dates, times, and responses."

Landlord's Obligations

Under the Residential Tenancy Act 1997, landlords are obligated to:

• Maintain the property in a reasonable state of repair
• Conduct repairs in a timely manner
• Respect the privacy and reasonable peace of tenants during repairs

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you're having trouble with repair requests, you can contact the Consumer, Building and Occupational Services for support and guidance. For legal advice or dispute resolution, you might consider approaching the Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (TASCAT).

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1. Who is responsible for repairing damages in a rental property?

   The landlord is generally responsible for keeping the property in good repair, but tenants must report issues and may be liable for damage due to misuse or neglect.

2. What should I do if my landlord refuses to carry out repairs?

   If a landlord refuses repairs, you can take the matter to the Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal for resolution.

3. How quickly must urgent repairs be addressed?

   Urgent repairs should be commenced as soon as practicable, usually within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the severity.

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1. How to report necessary repairs to your landlord?

   To report necessary repairs, first detail the problem in writing. You should ideally use the Notice to Owner form provided by the Tasmanian government for formal requests.

2. How to escalate repair issues?

   If repair issues are not resolved, contact Consumer Affairs or file an application with TASCAT for a hearing.

Key Takeaways

• Understand your rights and responsibilities regarding repairs in Tasmania.
• Use official forms and document communication when requesting repairs.
• Know the resources available for assistance with landlord disputes.
• Urgent repairs require immediate action; non-urgent should be completed within 14 days.

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