Request for Repairs – How to Get Your Landlord to Fix Problems

When something breaks in your rental, your landlord is legally responsible for keeping the property in a reasonable state of repair. You don’t have to put up with unsafe, unhealthy, or deteriorating conditions — and you don’t have to fix them yourself.

This guide explains what counts as a repair, how to request one properly, and what to do if your landlord ignores you.

What Counts as a Repair?

A repair is anything needed to keep the property:

• safe
• healthy
• functional
• weather‑tight
• compliant with Healthy Homes Standards

Repairs include things like:

• leaks, dampness, mould
• broken windows or doors
• faulty wiring or unsafe power points
• plumbing issues
• broken appliances supplied with the tenancy
• heating that doesn’t work
• pests or vermin
• structural issues
• anything that makes the home unsafe or uninhabitable

If it affects your health, safety, or ability to live normally — it’s a repair.

Your Rights Under the Law

Your landlord must:

• keep the property in a reasonable state of repair
• fix problems within a reasonable timeframe
• comply with Healthy Homes Standards
• ensure the home is safe and secure
• respond to repair requests promptly

They cannot:

• ignore repair requests
• delay repairs unnecessarily
• blame you for normal wear and tear
• ask you to pay for repairs you didn’t cause

What You Should Do First

1. Document the issue Take photos or videos showing the problem clearly.
2. Report it in writing Always make your request in writing so you have a record.
3. Be specific Describe the issue, how long it’s been happening, and why it needs fixing.
4. Give a reasonable timeframe Urgent issues (like leaks, electrical faults, or broken locks) should be fixed quickly.

If the Landlord Doesn’t Respond

If they ignore you or refuse to fix the problem, you can:

• issue a 14‑day Notice to Remedy
• apply to the Tenancy Tribunal
• request compensation
• request work orders
• request penalties for failing to maintain the property

The Tribunal takes repair issues seriously, especially when they affect health or safety.

Urgent Repairs

If the issue is dangerous — like exposed wiring, flooding, or a broken exterior door — you can:

• contact emergency services if needed
• take steps to protect yourself
• notify the landlord immediately
• apply urgently to the Tribunal if they refuse to act

Do not pay for major repairs yourself unless the Tribunal orders it.

What to Say to Your Landlord

You can use these phrases:

• “This issue needs repair as soon as possible.”
• “Please confirm when a tradesperson will attend.”
• “This is affecting my ability to live safely in the property.”

Copy and Paste This Email

Subject: Request for Repairs – [Issue]

Kia ora,

I am writing to request repairs for the following issue: [brief description of the problem].

This needs to be fixed to keep the property in a reasonable state of repair, as required under the Residential Tenancies Act.

Please confirm when the repair will be arranged.

Ngā mihi, [Your Name]