Tasmania Tenant's Guide to Repairs and Maintenance

Renting a property in Tasmania comes with its own set of responsibilities and rights, especially when it comes to repairs, maintenance, and urgent issues. Understanding these is crucial to ensure a comfortable living environment.

Your Rights as a Tenant

As a tenant in Tasmania, you have the right to live in a property that meets certain safety and habitation standards. The Residential Tenancy Act 1997 outlines these rights.

Types of Repairs

• Urgent Repairs: These are repairs that need immediate attention, such as a broken heater in winter or a burst water pipe.
• Non-Urgent Repairs: These include general maintenance issues that do not pose an immediate risk but should be addressed in a reasonable timeframe.

Responsibilities of the Landlord

The landlord must ensure the property is safe and habitable. This includes conducting regular maintenance checks and attending to urgent repairs promptly. For more details, you can visit the Consumer, Building and Occupational Services website.

Requesting Repairs

Tenants should notify the landlord or agent in writing when repairs are needed. It's advisable to keep a copy of all correspondence. If your landlord fails to make necessary repairs, you may apply to the Residential Tenancy Commissioner for a resolution.

Filing a Complaint

When issues arise that aren't resolved amicably, tenants in Tasmania can apply to the Residential Tenancy Commissioner. The application process typically requires filling out specific forms, which can be found on the official website.

Common Forms Used

• Notice to Carry Out Repairs: Use this form to formally request repairs from your landlord. Details can be accessed through the Consumer, Building and Occupational Services.

"Timely communication and proper documentation are key to ensuring all parties are protected and responsibilities are clear."

Understanding the Legislation

The Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth) provides a framework that safeguards renters' rights at a national level, complementing state-specific laws.

1. What is considered an urgent repair? An urgent repair includes any issue that poses a safety risk or threatens the property's habitability, such as hot water system failure, electricity faults, or structural damage.
2. Who pays for repairs in Tasmania? Typically, landlords are responsible for funding repairs unless the damage was caused by the tenant's negligence.
3. How long does a landlord have to fix a repair? For urgent repairs, landlords should act immediately or within 48 hours. Non-urgent repairs should be addressed in a reasonable period, often defined as 14 days.

1. How to submit a repair request in Tasmania?
   1. Write to your landlord detailing the repair needed.
   2. Keep a copy of your request for your records.
   3. If no action is taken, apply to the Residential Tenancy Commissioner.
2. How to apply to the Residential Tenancy Commissioner?
   1. Visit the Consumer, Building and Occupational Services site.
   2. Download and complete the necessary application form.
   3. Submit your application online or via post.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you need additional support, contact the following resources in Tasmania:

• Consumer, Building and Occupational Services
• Legal Aid Tasmania
• Shelter Tasmania
• Tenants Union of Tasmania

---

1. The Residential Tenancy Act 1997 outlines the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords.
2. Urgent repairs should be dealt with immediately to ensure safety and comfort.
3. Proper documentation and communication can help resolve repair issues efficiently.

Footnotes:

1. Residential Tenancy Act 1997
2. Residential Tenancy Commissioner
3. Consumer, Building and Occupational Services
4. Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth)

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