Landlords in all Australian states have a legal obligation to keep rental properties in a reasonable state of repair. If something breaks or becomes unsafe, you have the right to have it fixed. The key is knowing the difference between urgent and non-urgent repairs, and following the right process to protect yourself if the landlord does not respond.
Urgent vs non-urgent repairs — know the difference
Urgent repairs are those that make the property unsafe or unliveable — a burst pipe, broken heating in winter, a gas leak, a serious electrical fault, a broken door lock, or a hot water system failure. These must be attended to quickly, and most states require the landlord or agent to respond within 24 hours.
Non-urgent repairs are things that affect your comfort or amenity but are not immediately dangerous — a dripping tap, a broken window latch, a faulty oven. These still must be fixed within a reasonable timeframe, typically 14 days after written notice.
Put your repair request in writing
Always request repairs in writing, even if you have already called or spoken to the landlord verbally. An email creates a dated record that is very difficult to dispute later.
Your written request should include:
- The specific issue and where in the property it is
- When you first noticed the problem
- Whether it is affecting habitability or safety
- A request for a response by a specific date (5–7 business days for non-urgent repairs)
Keep a copy of every request and every response.
What to do if the landlord does not respond
If you receive no response after your written request, send a follow-up in writing and set a final deadline. State clearly that if the repair is not completed you will apply to the tenancy tribunal.
For urgent repairs that have not been addressed, most states allow tenants to arrange the repair themselves — through a tradesperson listed in the tenancy agreement or a qualified tradesperson of your choice — and recover the cost from the landlord, up to a legislated limit. This limit varies by state, so check your state tenancy authority website before proceeding.
Applying to your state tribunal for a repair order
If the landlord continues to ignore your requests, you can apply to your state tenancy tribunal for a repair order. The tribunal can order the landlord to carry out specific repairs by a set date, and may also award compensation if the failure to repair has caused you loss.
Bring copies of all your written requests, any photos of the issue, and records of any communication. Applications are generally straightforward and do not require a lawyer. See the RenterSay tenancy contacts directory for your state tribunal's contact details and application process.