Cyclone repairs under a tenancy agreement

Are you a tenant in a cyclone damaged property?

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, as a tenant you must advise the landlord / agent in writing of any damage to the premises or ancillary property.

The landlord is responsible for ensuring repairs are carried out or arrangements have been made for repairs to be carried out within seven business days.

Emergency repairs such as a dangerous electrical fault, impact damage, serious roof leak, failure or breakdown of gas, water or electricity supply, or damage that makes the property unsafe or insecure should be addressed or arrangements made for repairs to be carried out within five business days.

If your landlord / agent has not taken steps to address property damage within these time frames, please contact our office for further information in relation to your options.

If the property is uninhabitable, a tenant or landlord may terminate the tenancy in writing with two days’ notice.

We understand a number of homes are still without power and water due to Cyclone Marcus. As this is outside the landlord’s control, we ask that you remain patient during this time while Power Water / Jacana undertake repairs.

Tenants and landlords are encouraged to call NT Consumer Affairs on 1800 019 319 regarding any concerns they may have in relation to their rental property and repairs.