Help for Repairs and Maintenance in WA

As a renter in Western Australia, understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding repairs, maintenance, and urgent issues is crucial. Whether it's a leaking roof or a faulty heater, knowing where to get help can save you both time and stress. In this guide, we'll explore the key resources available to renters in WA, ensuring you get the support you need when faced with housing issues.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

Under the Residential Tenancies Act 1987, landlords are responsible for maintaining rental properties in a reasonable state of repair. Renters must report any repairs needed and allow the landlord or their representative access to carry out the repairs.

Types of Repairs

Urgent Repairs

Issues that affect health or safety or result in significant damage are considered urgent. Examples include:

• Gas leaks
• Broken heaters in winter
• Serious water leaks

If urgent repairs are required, contact your landlord or property manager immediately.

Non-Urgent Repairs

These involve less pressing issues like dripping taps or sticking doors. While they're not emergencies, they should be reported promptly.

Steps for Requesting Repairs

1. Notify your landlord: Report the issue in writing, specifying the problem and any potential risks if left unattended.
2. Use official forms: Utilize the Notice to Lessor of Tenant’s Need for Repairs form if necessary.
3. Follow up: If repairs aren’t completed within a reasonable time, you may contact the Consumer Protection Division for further assistance.

Always keep a copy of any written communication with your landlord regarding repairs. This will be helpful if disputes arise.

Getting Assistance for Repairs

If repairs aren’t being addressed, several organizations can help:

• Consumer Protection WA can provide guidance and, in some cases, intervene on your behalf.
• Tenancy WA offers free legal advice and advocacy for renters.
• The WA Dispute Resolution Service can mediate disputes between tenants and landlords.

FAQ Section

1. What should I do if my landlord refuses to make urgent repairs? Consider contacting Consumer Protection WA for advice and potentially lodging a complaint if the issue persists.
2. How long do I have to wait for non-urgent repairs? Non-urgent repairs should be addressed within a reasonable timeframe, which is generally considered 7-14 days.
3. Can I withhold rent if repairs aren’t made? No, withholding rent can lead to eviction. Instead, seek advice from tenancy support organizations.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Consumer Protection WA: commerce.wa.gov.au
• Tenancy WA: tenancywa.org.au
• Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety: dmirs.wa.gov.au

---

[1] Residential Tenancies Act 1987. Western Australia. Retrieved from legislation.wa.gov.au [2] Consumer Protection WA. Government of Western Australia. Retrieved from commerce.wa.gov.au

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