Routine, urgent and emergency repairs
Repairs can be routine, urgent or emergency depending on the issue and risk. Emergency repairs can include serious water leaks, blocked or broken essential services, dangerous electrical faults, serious storm or fire damage, unsafe security issues and other issues listed in RTA guidance.
Do not take risky action. If there is immediate danger, call emergency services or the relevant utility emergency line.
- Report repairs in writing.
- Describe the effect, not just the defect.
- Keep photos, access offers and response dates.
What to do now
For routine repairs, send a written request with clear details, photos and access availability. For safety issues, escalate faster and keep a record of attempts to contact the lessor, agent or nominated repairer.
If the issue remains unresolved, a notice to remedy breach, RTA dispute resolution, QCAT or a specialist safety pathway may be relevant. Get advice before arranging repairs yourself unless the emergency repair rules clearly apply.
- Use neutral subject lines: Repair request - leaking bathroom tap - 17 July 2026.
- Attach photos with dates and locations.
- Follow up in writing if there is no response.
Minimum housing standards
Queensland minimum housing standards apply to rental premises and rooming accommodation. They cover safety, security and function of the premises and inclusions.
Issues with locks, weatherproofing, plumbing, pests, structural safety, mould linked to defects, fixtures and essential services should be documented carefully and checked against RTA guidance.
Common repair issues
Mould, water leaks, electrical hazards, plumbing failures, security failures, broken included appliances and structural issues all need clear evidence. The right pathway depends on cause, risk, agreement terms and response history.
- Mould: photograph, report moisture sources, ventilate where safe, and seek health advice if needed.
- Electrical hazards: do not touch unsafe fittings; contact urgent help.
- Security failures: record broken locks, doors, windows and access risks.
- Tenant-caused damage: report promptly and keep communication practical.
Tradespeople and access
Tenants should usually allow reasonable access for repairs when proper notice is given or an emergency exists. If the proposed time is difficult, offer practical alternatives in writing.
If a tradesperson attends, record their name, company, arrival time and what they observed or repaired.
Emergency repair reimbursement evidence
RTA guidance includes limits and conditions for tenants arranging emergency repairs. You generally need to show the issue was an emergency repair, that you tried the correct contacts, that the work was necessary, and that costs were reasonable and evidenced.
- Keep receipts and quotes.
- Keep call logs to the nominated repairer and agent.
- Do not authorise unnecessary upgrades or unrelated work.
Sources and review status
Major statements on this page were reviewed against official sources on 17 July 2026. Use the source links below to confirm current law and process details before acting.
- Residential Tenancies Authority Queensland - Repairs, emergency repairs and minimum housing standards (external)Checked 17 July 2026
- Residential Tenancies Authority Queensland - Queensland rental law changes (external)Checked 17 July 2026
- Residential Tenancies Authority Queensland - RTA forms (external)Checked 17 July 2026
- QSTARS - Tenancy advice and advocacy (external)Checked 17 July 2026
- Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal - Residential tenancy disputes in QCAT (external)Checked 17 July 2026