Getting repairs done in Victoria: renters' rights
Your landlord must keep the home in good repair.
Your rights in plain English
- Ask in writing and keep a dated copy.
- They must fix it within 14 days of your written request.
- If they don't: ask Consumer Affairs Victoria for a free repairs inspection or go to Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria, then VCAT. VCAT can order the repair and you can apply to have your rent paid into the Rent Special Account until it's done.
- Keep paying your rent while you wait. Stopping rent puts you in breach.
Put it in writing, with your rights spelled out
Our free email tool writes the message to your agent for Victoria, 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 1997 (Vic), you must keep the property in good repair and carry out this repair within 14 days of this written notice.
- If it is not done within 14 days, I may apply to Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria and VCAT for a repair order, and to have my rent paid into the Rent Special Account.
Where to get help
Consumer Affairs Victoria (1300 55 81 81) · Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria · VCAT.
Source: Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (Vic). General information only, not legal advice. Last checked October 2026. Check your state's tenancy authority for your situation.