Drains and gutters

Update

Rental law changes introducing minimum housing standards came into effect for new tenancies (including renewed tenancy agreements) from 1 September 2023, and will come into effect for all remaining tenancies on 1 September 2024.

If a drainpipe blockage is a result of fair wear and tear (e.g. tree roots) the property manager/owner is responsible for ensuring the drainpipes are cleared and maintained to a working standard.

If the tenant has caused the blockage (e.g. a child puts a toy down the drain) they may be responsible for the removal of any items that caused the problem. The tenant may also have to pay for the cost of removal and any damage.

However, if the tenant has not done anything to block the gutters, the property manager/owner may be responsible for cleaning them.