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Repairs and maintenance in Australian Capital Territory

Renters in Australian Capital Territory are entitled to a home that's safe and in reasonable repair. Landlords are generally responsible for keeping the property maintained, while renters are expected to keep it reasonably clean and report problems promptly. Access Canberra sets out how repairs must be handled.

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Urgent vs routine repairs

Urgent repairs — like a burst pipe, a gas leak, no hot water, or anything that makes the home unsafe — must be dealt with quickly, and Australian Capital Territory rules set out what you can do if the landlord doesn't act in time. Routine repairs are everything else, and follow a standard request-and-reasonable-timeframe process. Always put repair requests in writing so there's a record of what you asked and when.

How to request a repair so it gets done

Report the problem in writing with the date, a clear description, and a photo. Keep a copy. If a repair isn't actioned within a reasonable time, Access Canberra can explain the next steps available to you in Australian Capital Territory. A documented trail — request, photo, follow-up — is what makes the difference if it ever escalates.

Official source for Australian Capital Territory

Access Canberra — official renting information · phone 13 22 81. They set and publish the exact rules that apply to your tenancy.

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Common questions — Australian Capital Territory

Who pays for repairs in a Australian Capital Territory rental?

The landlord is generally responsible for keeping the property in good repair, unless you caused the damage. The specific rules and timeframes for Australian Capital Territory are set by Access Canberra.

What is an urgent repair?

Repairs needed to keep the home safe or liveable — such as a burst water pipe, blocked toilet, gas leak, electrical fault, or no hot water — are usually classed as urgent and must be handled quickly.

What if the landlord ignores my repair request?

Keep your written record, then contact Access Canberra for the escalation path in Australian Capital Territory. Documented, photographed requests give you the strongest position.

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This page gives general information to help you understand your rights as a renter in Australian Capital Territory. It isn't personal advice. For the exact rules and your specific situation, contact Access Canberra on 13 22 81 or a local tenant advocacy service.