Which of the following repairs is typically considered the tenant's responsibility under Australian residential tenancy laws?

Q: What is the correct answer to: Which of the following repairs is typically considered the tenant's responsibility under Australian residential tenancy laws?

The correct answer is Replacing light globes and cleaning. Option C is correct because replacing light globes and cleaning are classified as minor maintenance under Australian residential tenancy laws. These are routine, low-cost activities that tenants can reasonably be expected to perform as part of their general care and maintenance obligations. State tenancy legislation consistently places responsibility for basic cleaning, replacing consumable items like light globes, and general upkeep on tenants. These tasks don't require specialized skills or significant expense and are considered part of the tenant's duty to maintain the property in a reasonable condition during their tenancy.

Q: What background knowledge is needed for this Property Management question?

Australian residential tenancy laws establish a clear division between landlord and tenant maintenance responsibilities. Landlords are responsible for major repairs, structural issues, and anything affecting habitability including plumbing, electrical systems, heating/cooling, and weatherproofing. Tenants are responsible for minor maintenance, cleaning, and general care of the property. This includes replacing light globes, basic cleaning, maintaining gardens (unless specified otherwise), and reporting maintenance issues promptly. The principle is based on cost, complexity, and whether the item affects basic habitability. State legislation varies slightly but follows these general principles consistently across Australia.

Q: What is a good way to remember the answer to this Property Management question?

Remember LIGHT for tenant responsibilities: Light globes, Interior cleaning, General upkeep, Household consumables, Tenant-caused damage. If it's LIGHT work that doesn't require a tradie, it's usually the tenant's job. Everything else (heavy repairs, structural issues, major systems) falls to the landlord. When you see a maintenance question, ask yourself: 'Is this LIGHT work?' If it involves calling a professional, costs significant money, or affects the building's structure/habitability, it's the landlord's responsibility. If it's something you'd do in your own home without calling a tradie, it's likely the tenant's job.

Q: What exam tip applies to this Property Management question?

Look for keywords: 'minor', 'cleaning', 'light globes', 'basic upkeep' = tenant responsibility. 'Major', 'structural', 'systems', 'professional repair' = landlord responsibility. When in doubt, ask if it affects habitability or requires professional skills.

Q: How does this Property Management concept apply in Australian real estate practice?

A property manager receives a call from a tenant reporting that several light globes have blown out in the living room and the bathroom needs a deep clean before a routine inspection. The property manager correctly advises that replacing the light globes and cleaning are the tenant's responsibility, but offers to provide the correct globe specifications. However, when the tenant mentions a small water stain on the ceiling, the property manager immediately schedules a professional inspection as this could indicate a roof leak, which would be the landlord's responsibility to repair.

Question

Property ManagementMaintenanceEASY

Which of the following repairs is typically considered the tenant's responsibility under Australian residential tenancy laws?

Answer Options

A

Replacing a broken hot water system

B

Fixing structural damage to walls

C

Replacing light globes and cleaning

D

Repairing a leaking roof