When something goes wrong in a rental property — a burst pipe, a broken heater, or a flickering light — it’s not always clear whether it’s an emergency repair or general maintenance.
Knowing the difference helps renters act quickly, communicate clearly, and ensure issues are handled the right way under Victoria’s Residential Tenancies Act 1997.
Here’s a simple guide to help renters understand what to do when maintenance problems arise.
1. What Counts as an Emergency Repair
Under Victorian law, emergency repairs are urgent issues that affect the property’s safety, security, or essential services.
Common examples include:
- Burst or broken water service
- Blocked or leaking toilet (if there is only one in the property)
- Serious roof leaks
- Gas leaks or dangerous electrical faults
- Flooding or serious storm damage
- Broken heating, hot water, or cooking appliances
- Faults that make the property unsafe or insecure (e.g., broken external doors or locks)
If you’re unsure whether an issue qualifies as an emergency, consider this rule of thumb:
👉 If it poses a risk to safety, health, or property damage, it’s an emergency.
Renters should contact their property manager immediately — even outside office hours. Many agencies, including RENTED, provide emergency repair contacts for after-hours situations.
2. What’s Considered General Maintenance
General maintenance covers non-urgent issues that don’t threaten safety or livability but still need attention to prevent long-term damage.
Examples include:
- Dripping taps
- Minor appliance faults
- Sticking doors or windows
- Loose fittings or cracked tiles
- Non-urgent painting or cosmetic repairs
These issues should be reported through your property manager’s maintenance request system.
Providing clear details, photos, and access availability helps get them resolved efficiently.
3. Who Is Responsible for What
- Owners (via their property manager) are responsible for ensuring the property meets rental standards and that repairs are completed in a timely manner.
- Renters must report issues as soon as possible and avoid doing any repair work themselves (unless authorised).
- If renters organise urgent repairs directly, they may be entitled to reimbursement — but only up to the approved limit and only for genuine emergencies.
For any confusion, always contact your property manager first before taking action.
4. Why Prompt Reporting Matters
Even small maintenance issues can worsen over time.
A slow leak today can become significant water damage tomorrow.
By reporting maintenance early, renters protect both the property and their own comfort — and help keep the tenancy running smoothly for everyone.
5. How RENTED Handles Repairs
At RENTED Property Management, we believe good communication and fast action are the foundation of positive renting experiences.
Our maintenance team coordinates trusted trades across Melbourne to ensure both renters and landlords are supported when issues arise.
We maintain detailed inspection records, compliance checks, and a responsive repair process — so small problems don’t become costly ones.
Understanding the difference between emergency repairs and general maintenance helps renters handle issues confidently and ensures properties remain safe, compliant, and well cared for.
