What repairs is a landlord responsible for in Australia?

Landlord Repair Responsibilities in Australia

In Australia, landlords have legal obligations to maintain rental properties in good condition. These responsibilities vary slightly by state, but the main principles are similar across the country.

What Landlords Must Repair

• Structural elements: Walls, roof, floors, and foundations
• Essential services: Plumbing, electrical systems, gas, heating, and cooling
• Safety features: Locks, handrails, smoke alarms, and pool fencing
• Weatherproofing: Windows, doors, and seals to keep out rain and wind
• Appliances: Usually those provided with the property (stove, fridge, etc.)
• Common areas: In units or apartments, shared spaces like hallways and gardens

Tenant Responsibilities

Tenants are responsible for:

• Reporting damage promptly to the landlord
• Maintaining cleanliness and basic upkeep
• Damage caused by their own negligence or misuse
• Normal wear and tear is the landlord's responsibility

Repair Timeframes

Landlords must complete urgent repairs (like burst pipes or broken locks) within 24 hours. Non-urgent repairs typically must be done within 7-14 days, depending on your state.

What to Do

• Report repairs in writing (email or letter) with photos if possible
• Keep copies of all communications
• Give the landlord reasonable time to respond
• Contact your state's tenancy authority if repairs are not completed

State-Specific Information

Rules vary by state. In New South Wales, contact Fair Trading NSW for guidance. Other states have similar consumer protection agencies.

For detailed information about your rights and obligations, visit Fair Trading NSW or your state's equivalent authority.

This is general information only. Check official sources before acting.