Getting repairs done in Northern Territory: renters' rights
Your landlord must keep the home in a reasonable state of repair, allowing for its age.
Your rights in plain English
- Ask in writing. They must act in a timely manner.
- If nothing happens, send a breach notice, or apply to NTCAT for a repair order.
- Keep paying your rent. The only rent deduction allowed is one the landlord agrees to for repair costs.
Put it in writing, with your rights spelled out
Our free email tool writes the message to your agent for Northern Territory, 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 Residential Tenancies Act 1999 (NT), you must keep the premises in a reasonable state of repair and act on this request in a timely manner.
- If it is not done, I may give a breach notice and apply to NTCAT for a repair order.
Where to get help
NT Consumer Affairs (1800 019 319) · NTCAT · Darwin Community Legal Service.
Source: Residential Tenancies Act 1999 (NT). General information only, not legal advice. Last checked October 2026. Check your state's tenancy authority for your situation.