Getting repairs done in ACT: renters' rights
Your landlord must keep the home, and any appliances supplied with it, in a reasonable state of repair.
Your rights in plain English
- Tell them in writing.
- They must fix it within 4 weeks, unless you agree otherwise.
- If it's not done, apply to ACAT for a repair order, rent reduction or compensation.
- Keep paying your rent while you wait.
Put it in writing, with your rights spelled out
Our free email tool writes the message to your agent for ACT, quoting your rights. Keep dated photos and a record you can use at the end of your lease.
The email tool is free. The $29 Tenancy Pass adds your condition report and dated record for the whole lease, incl. GST, with a 14-day money-back guarantee.
What your email should say
- Under the standard residential tenancy terms of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (ACT), you must keep the premises in a reasonable state of repair and carry out this repair within 4 weeks of this notice.
- If it is not done, I may apply to ACAT for a repair order, a rent reduction and compensation.
Where to get help
Access Canberra (13 22 81) · ACAT · Canberra Community Law Tenants' Advice.
Source: Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (ACT). General information only, not legal advice. Last checked October 2026. Check your state's tenancy authority for your situation.