What can I do if the landlord doesn’t fix things in NSW?
What you can do if the landlord doesn’t fix things in NSW: repair requests, urgent repairs, the Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW) and NCAT repair orders.
Regulator
NCAT
Key legislation
Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW)
Dispute path
Letter first, deadline tracked. If they go quiet, escalation to NCAT is prepped and ready.
If a landlord has not fixed urgent repairs, the main issue is whether the tenancy law and the repair obligation were being met. The Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW) sets out the responsibilities of landlords and tenants in this area and gives the tribunal a framework for disputes.
Keep records of the repair request, the date it was raised, the photos of the problem, and any response from the landlord. It is helpful to explain the seriousness of the issue and whether it affected safety, habitability, or the ability to use the property as a home.
If the matter cannot be settled directly, NCAT can hear the complaint. The more specific the evidence, the stronger the argument becomes, especially when the issue is about safety, maintenance, or repeated non-response.
Frequently asked questions
What counts as urgent repairs?
Urgent issues are usually those that affect safety, health, or the ability to use the property safely.
What law applies?
The Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW) governs the tenancy relationship and repair obligations.
Can I ask NCAT for help?
Yes. NCAT is the forum for residential tenancy disputes in NSW.
What evidence should I keep?
Photos, repair requests, messages, and records of what happened and when.
What if the landlord says the repair is minor?
You can still explain why the issue affected the property or your tenancy, and ask for a formal review.
Can I withhold rent?
That is a complex area and needs careful legal advice, so the stronger route is to document the issue and seek the formal dispute process.
What can I do if my landlord doesn’t fix things?
Put the repair request in writing with a date, describe the problem and how it affects the property, and keep photos. The Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW) puts the repair obligation on the landlord. If nothing happens, apply to NCAT for a repair order rather than waiting or withholding rent.
Can I do urgent repairs myself and be reimbursed in NSW?
The Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW) has a process for urgent repairs where the landlord fails to act, including reimbursement up to a capped amount if you follow the steps. Keep the invoice and every message, and check the current cap and conditions before you spend the money.
How do I force repairs through NCAT?
Apply for a repair order and bring your written requests, photos, and the landlord’s responses or silence. NCAT can order the work to be done, and where the problem reduced your use of the property you can also ask about compensation or a rent reduction.
What if Landlord just ignores my letter?
Silence is not a dead end, it is a deadline breach. Landlord is expected to respond to a formal complaint within 30 days. Build your letter with us and we track that deadline for you: a countdown check-in two weeks in, and if they miss the deadline, your escalation to your state tenancy tribunal (NCAT in NSW, VCAT in Victoria, QCAT in Queensland, or equivalent) arrives pre-filled and ready to lodge. Escalating is free.
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screwtheman.com is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. The content on this page is for general information on consumer rights, legislation, and dispute pathways. For complex legal matters, consult a qualified lawyer or the relevant regulator.