Protection for Repairs and Maintenance in Victoria

As a renter in Victoria, it is crucial to understand your rights and responsibilities when it comes to repairs, maintenance, and urgent issues. The Residential Tenancies Act 1997 governs these aspects, ensuring a safe and habitable living environment.

Your Rights to Repairs and Maintenance

Under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997, landlords are obligated to maintain the property in good repair and respond promptly to repair requests. Here's what you need to know:

• General Repairs: Tenants should notify landlords in writing about necessary repairs. Landlords then have 14 days to respond.
• Urgent Repairs: Issues like burst water pipes or gas leaks are considered urgent. Tenants can authorise these repairs up to $2,500 and seek reimbursement from the landlord.

What Constitutes Urgent Repairs?

Urgent repairs include, but are not limited to:

• Blocked or broken toilet systems
• Serious roof leaks
• Gas leaks
• Dangerous electrical faults

For a full list of urgent repairs, refer to Section 72 of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.

How to Report a Repair Issue

If you encounter a maintenance issue, follow these steps to address it:

1. Inform Your Landlord in Writing

Write a letter or email to your landlord detailing the issue. Include photos if applicable.

2. Use the Official Forms

• Notice to Landlord to Undertake Repairs Form (PDF): Use this form to formally request repairs.

Understanding VCAT's Role

If your landlord refuses or delays repairs, you can apply to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) for resolution. VCAT can order landlords to carry out repairs and reimburse tenants for costs incurred.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you need assistance with rental issues in Victoria, consider reaching out to the following resources:

• Consumer Affairs Victoria: Offers information and support on renting issues.
• Tenants Victoria: Provides free legal advice and advocacy for renters.

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1. What should I do if my landlord ignores my repair request? If your repair request is ignored, you can contact Consumer Affairs Victoria for advice and potentially take your case to VCAT for a resolution.
2. Can I withhold rent if repairs are not made? No, in Victoria, withholding rent is not allowed. Instead, pursue other legal channels such as VCAT to resolve the issue.
3. What qualifies as an urgent repair? Urgent repairs include issues that affect safety or are serious inconveniences, such as gas leaks or flooding.

1. How to request repairs in Victoria
   1. Create a written notice with detailed information about the repair needed.
   2. Send the notice to your landlord or property manager.
   3. Wait for a response within 14 days for general repairs.
   4. Apply to VCAT if issues remain unresolved.
2. How to handle urgent repairs
   1. Identify the urgency and possible health or safety risks.
   2. Attempt to contact your landlord or property manager immediately.
   3. Get authorisation for repairs, if these exceed $2,500 or if you can't reach the landlord.
   4. Keep all repair receipts for reimbursement.

Key takeaways from this article include your rights to repairs under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997, the necessity of written notice for repairs, and options for urgent and general repairs in Victoria.

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