Landlord Won’t Do Repairs or Keeps Your Bond? Renter’s Rights

Updated 26 June 2026 · FairClaim Guides

Renters have real, enforceable rights — to timely repairs, to a bond that is only kept with proper evidence, and to valid notice for rent increases and to vacate. If your rental provider or agent is not playing by the rules, you can take the matter to your state consumer affairs body and tenancy tribunal (in Victoria, Consumer Affairs Victoria and VCAT).

This guide covers the most common renting disputes under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (Vic) and equivalent state laws.

Repairs

Urgent repairs (like a burst pipe, a dangerous fault, or no hot water) must be actioned quickly, and you may have a right to arrange them yourself in some circumstances. Non-urgent repairs must be done within a set period after you notify the rental provider in writing — keep a dated copy of every request.

Bond, rent increases and notices

Your bond can only be kept for genuine, evidenced reasons (such as damage beyond fair wear and tear) supported by the condition report and receipts — not for ordinary wear.
Rent generally cannot be increased more than once in any 12-month period, and the increase needs proper written notice.
A notice to vacate must use a valid legal reason and the correct notice period; an invalid notice can be challenged and set aside.

How to act

Put your request or dispute in writing to the rental provider or agent, and keep a dated copy.
Gather evidence: the lease, condition report, photos, repair requests, and any notices you received.
If it is not resolved, apply to your state consumer affairs body or tenancy tribunal (e.g. VCAT).
State the outcome you want: the repair done, your bond returned, or the rent increase or notice set aside.

How FairClaim helps

FairClaim helps you set out exactly what happened, checks it against the tenancy rules for your state, and drafts a structured application or complaint. Free to start.

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Answer guided questions or just describe what happened. FairClaim checks your facts against the relevant law and drafts your complaint.

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Frequently asked questions

My landlord won’t do repairs — what can I do?

Notify them in writing and keep a dated copy. Urgent repairs must be actioned quickly and you may be able to arrange them yourself in some cases; non-urgent repairs must be done within the period set by your state’s tenancy law. If they are ignored, apply to your tenancy tribunal.

Can my landlord keep my bond?

Only for genuine, evidenced reasons such as damage beyond fair wear and tear, unpaid rent, or cleaning supported by the condition report and receipts. A bond claim without proper evidence can be disputed at the tribunal.

How often can my rent be increased?

In most states, no more than once every 12 months, and only with the correct written notice. An increase that is too frequent or improperly notified can be challenged.

I got a notice to vacate — is it valid?

A notice to vacate must state a valid legal ground and give the correct notice period. If it does not, you can challenge it; do not simply move out — seek advice and consider applying to the tribunal.

Related guides

This guide is legal information, not legal advice. It describes general rights under Australian consumer credit law and may not account for the specifics of your situation. For advice about your circumstances, contact a community legal centre, the National Debt Helpline (1800 007 007), or a qualified legal practitioner.