During a tenancy, maintenance issues can sometimes arise. Australian tenancy laws recognise that certain problems must be addressed urgently because they affect safety or essential services.

Here are examples of repairs generally considered urgent.

Plumbing Problems

Urgent plumbing issues include:

• Burst water pipes
• Serious water leaks
• Blocked or broken toilets

These problems can cause damage to the property or disrupt normal living conditions.

Electrical Faults

Electrical issues that require urgent attention include:

• Power outages affecting the property
• Exposed wiring
• Faulty electrical systems

These problems should be reported immediately.

Gas Leaks

Gas leaks are always treated as urgent repairs due to safety risks. If you suspect a gas leak, contact your property manager immediately and follow safety instructions.

Essential Services Not Working

Loss of essential services such as:

• Heating
• Water supply
• Electricity
• Cooking appliances may also qualify as urgent repairs depending on the circumstances.

Reporting Maintenance

Tenants should report urgent repairs as soon as possible so the issue can be addressed quickly.

Providing clear details and photos when submitting a maintenance request can help speed up the process.

Final Thoughts

Prompt reporting of maintenance issues helps protect both the tenant and the property. If you’re unsure whether a repair is urgent, contacting your property manager for guidance is always recommended.