No Hot Water in Your Rental?
Failure of hot water service is classified as an emergency repair in all Australian states. Your landlord must fix it immediately.
Need to notify your landlord urgently?
Generate Emergency Repair LetterCreates a paper trail. Cites emergency repair legislation.
Your Rights: Hot Water is an Emergency
Every Australian state and territory specifically lists "failure of hot water service" as an emergency or urgent repair that must be addressed immediately:
| State | Classification | Required Response | Legislation |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | Urgent Repair | As soon as possible | Section 64, Residential Tenancies Act 2010 |
| VIC | Urgent Repair | As soon as possible | Section 72, Residential Tenancies Act 1997 |
| QLD | Emergency Repair | Within 24 hours | Section 187, RTRA Act 2008 |
| WA | Urgent Repair | As soon as possible | Section 43, Residential Tenancies Act 1987 |
| SA | Urgent Repair | As soon as possible | Section 68, Residential Tenancies Act 1995 |
| TAS | Urgent Repair | As soon as possible | Section 37, Residential Tenancy Act 1997 |
| ACT | Urgent Repair | As soon as possible | Section 73, Residential Tenancies Act 1997 |
| NT | Urgent Repair | As soon as possible | Section 63, Residential Tenancies Act 1999 |
What To Do Right Now
- Contact your landlord/agent immediately. Call them first, then follow up in writing (email/text). Document the time of your contact attempts.
- Send a written notice. Even for emergencies, having a written record is essential. Use our letter generator to create a formal notice citing emergency repair legislation.
- Give them a chance to respond. For emergencies, this means hours, not days. If you can't reach them within a few hours, proceed to step 4.
- Arrange the repair yourself if needed. If you can't contact the landlord, most states allow you to engage a licensed tradesperson and claim back the cost.
- Keep all receipts. If you pay for emergency repairs, keep all invoices and receipts to claim back from your landlord.
Yes, if you cannot contact your landlord or agent for an emergency repair. Most states allow you to:
- Engage a qualified tradesperson
- Spend up to $1,800-$2,500 (varies by state)
- Claim back the cost from your landlord
You must make reasonable attempts to contact the landlord first and keep all receipts.
Generate your emergency repair notice
Create Letter NowProfessional letter with emergency repair legislation cited.
If Your Landlord Still Won't Act
- Arrange the repair yourself and claim the cost back (see above)
- Apply to your state tribunal (NCAT, VCAT, QCAT, etc.) for an urgent repair order
- Contact your state's consumer protection body to lodge a complaint
- Contact your local tenants' union for advice and advocacy
Common Hot Water Issues
- Electric hot water system not heating - May be element failure, thermostat, or electrical issue
- Gas hot water not igniting - Pilot light, gas supply, or thermocouple issue
- Solar hot water not working - Pump failure, panel damage, or booster issue
- Hot water running out quickly - May indicate system failure or undersized unit
- Leaking hot water tank - Also a water damage emergency
This page provides general information about emergency repairs. It is not legal advice. For specific advice about your situation, contact your local tenants' union or community legal centre.