Repair issues

I've been living in my current abode for 8 months now.


I have a problem with the bathroom sink and upon inspection, think that the whole sink need to be replaced. As the screw part underneath the sink that connects the pipes has eroded.


My landlord has refused to repair it as she said it is my problem as I have been living there.


Our relationship isn't good as there have been previous things repaired, including water heater pipes due to rust, kitchen tap, loose woodern floor tiling which she reluctently fixed. To name but a few.


All of these problems stem from years of wear and tear and she expects me to bear the cost.


Can anyone out tell me if these problems are latent defects as mentioned in section 10 on the 'Consumer Council Notes on sining a tenancy agreement'?

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Your help will be much appreciated

Thanks for that aussieinla.

I would have fixed it my self if i could, but think the whole sink needs to be replaced. If the land lord doesn't fix it I expect she will deduct from my deposit.


I am thinking of going to the duty lawyer service to seek advice, has anyone used it before?

Dear Walkup 2, when you say 'the cost needs to be weighed against the reasonable rent you are paying'? Exactly what do you mean?

The landlord told me that I am paying reasonably low rent now as I signed the TA in April and he kindly informed me that its risen 30% now, I think she says it as a way of not paying the repairs.


Beerguy, the landlord has responded (long last) by registered post stating a clause in the contract that (cut the story short) he will take out of deposit if I repair it and deduct from the rent.

Lots of people told me not to pay the last two months of the rent. But as the electricity and water is under the landlords name, I have been advised not to as the landlord will cut the utilities off. Having young children puts me off.


So now am looking to take her to the small claims tribunial. But was wondering if I do it now or wait till the tenancy is up, which will be soon as they insisited it will not be renewed.