Rent Reduction? Sewerage Leak Caused by Broken Pipe

Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 13:42
Last edited 02/06/2020 - 12:17

Hi all sorry it’s a long one, looking for advice and opinions.

Last Thursday 11am the pipe outside our en-suite burst and sewerage waste and water was spilling out of it. Real estate was informed who then informed the landlord who came himself to look at it first, plumber came that afternoon around 6pm didn’t have the parts to fix it so came and fixed it the following Friday morning. (Plumber is landlords guy not the real estates).

This Monday 12 in the afternoon we notified the real estate agency that the drain behind our main bathroom was overflowing with waste and water but this time worse and because it’s 2m behind our back door and right next to our undercover area so the smell is more noticeable. She informed the landlord but nothing was done that day.

Tuesday 10.30 in the morning I again contacted the real estate agency asking about fixing the issue she told us she had told the landlord on Monday. The same plumber ended up coming Tuesday around midday and concluded the problem must be in one of the main pipes and he needed another plumber with a camera to come in.

Tuesday 4pm plumber with camera comes along with the landlord, plumber told me that it isn’t our fault the roots of the trees have broken a pipe underground. Landlord told us he’ll get someone started on it Thursday and it will take a week as they need to dig up the ground etc, in the mean time he asked us to use less toilet paper.

Today (Thursday) 10am I notified the real estate of the current situation and we are awaiting the plumber.

Honestly I don’t know know exactly what I’m hoping for but I’d just like opinions or advice. How long is a reasonable timeframe to get it fixed? Are we entitled to a reduction in rent? We have 2 dogs who usually spend their days in the backyard but with the current issue they need to be leashed indoors apart from when we let them out front yard (which can’t be too long as they love barking at people passing by).

UPDATE 1/06

Thursday no one came no contact from anyone until I messaged REA

Friday messaged REA was told the plumber would start, again no one came

Saturday sent a friendly message explaining our frustration with lack of communication said we’d contact tenants vic if it wasn’t started on Monday

Sunday LL, his usual plumber and earthmover came, we were told in person they’d start 8am Monday

Monday 10am no one came contacted REA who had to chase LL, was told it was delayed until Tuesday due to bad weather

Tuesday 8am earthmover here plumber arrives shortly after job is finished in about 2-3 hours. Why it took a week for a 2 hour job is beyond me. Overall glad it’s done won’t be asking for a rent reduction but will be on the look out for another property.

Home & Garden

Comments

  • GG57 on 28/05/2020 - 13:52
    +35

    A reduction in rent puts the impact onto the landlord; your story indicates the landlord has been trying to rectify, but it isn't clear if they have caused delays or if plumbers have.

    I would say it is an unfortunate event and just go with it, but keep pestering them to get it fixed asap.

    • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 14:10
      +1

      Honestly I do believe he has so far acted in a timely matter but then again because it is actual sewerage waste spilling into the backyard I think it should be attended to ASAP. I’m not a plumber so I have no idea how big/expensive the job is and especially with the current COVID situation I understand he may be struggling financially (we’ve just paid rent so that should help him hopefully). So far all I’ve asked was that they clean up the waste once it’s done. But yes it the plumbers don’t come today I will message the agency again tomorrow.

      Thank you for your input I’m glad I asked as I wanted other people’s opinions before I went ahead and asked the agency.

      • blawler05 on 29/05/2020 - 09:29
        +1

        When this happened at my house, I was quoted between 9 and 30k for the job (Depending on what they needed to do)

        In the end due to the location of the broken pipe, there were able to insert a fiberglass sleeve (I think fibreglass) into the pipe, cure it and fix the issue. This was the 9k option. I think all up from noticing the issue to getting it fixed it took me a week or so (Mine wasnt as bad as yours I would say). And this was for my private residence.

        The 30k option involved digging up the road in-front of my place (The connection point was under the road), which would have involved closing the road.

        Either option is quite a big piece of work.

        The landlord here seems to be doing everything they can to get this fixed ASAP. they have sent the plumber out within hours of your call. I am guessing the delay is on the plumber side, not the landlord side.

        You can always try for a rent reduction, but if i was the landlord I would fight it. ANd that could end up costing you time and heartache for very little reward.

        • kaleidoscope on 29/05/2020 - 18:23
          +6

          30k 😱

        • monkeyfood on 30/05/2020 - 10:38
          +4

          yeah but his paying rent monthly for a agreed place with agreed facilities, if he is not receiving the full package he is paying for and can't enjoy or use the areas affected why should he pay the full value? this is a business not a charity to the landlord or the renter.

          • blawler05 on 01/06/2020 - 08:52
            +1

            @monkeyfood: And the landlord actioned the concerns in a timely manner. This isnt a magical world where a burst drainage pipe is fixed in a matter of minutes.

            The landlord sent a plumber over. First incident plumber was onsite with in 8 hrs for the inspection. 2nd time within 24 hours. That is more than reasonable.

      • Intoxicoligist on 30/05/2020 - 09:27
        +6

        Hijacking the top comment here -

        1. Landlord should have insurrance to cover this sort of thing. If it was his house would he have moved to temp accom while it was being fixed? Is it a safe residence while there is open sewage overflowing 2m from your back door? I'd be talking to the RTA and explaining that while the landlord/real estate is doing the right thing, you're concerned for your health.

        2. Discuss it with the landlord/real estate. Explain that you understand its a shit (ba dum tiss) situation, but you're the one living in an open sewer. I'd do this after talking to the RTA to find out what your rights are.

        3. Read your rental contract. See if there is any sort of clauses for this kind of thing. Usually there is a repairs section. I doubt there will be anything here that helps, but if there is they are in breach of contract and you're entitled to recompense.

        4. Be nice! No point getting mad about it with them, especially as they seem helpful. Just be persistant, state the serious nature of the impact that its had on you, and that you've been in contact with the RTA to confirm what your rights are. Stand firm but dont be a dick about it. If you make them feel like they are being unreasonable whilst you are being reasonable you'll likely get a good result.

        Good luck!

        • od810 on 30/05/2020 - 12:10
          +1

          No insurance cover this situation like leakage from bath base. I have encountered both situation, bath base leakage and tree root caused blockage. Both costed me ~2700 to fix. Asking rental deduction is like asking the banks to reduce interest when you own a house.

          • Intoxicoligist on 31/05/2020 - 06:45
            +6

            @od810: I think the difference is when you rent you're paying for a service (a place to live) where when you buy you end up owning the complete package. Given the service is impacted asking for a reduction in cost seems reasonable to me.

          • monkeyfood on 31/05/2020 - 16:11
            +1

            @od810: no because in your rental contract it is outlined what you are renting and in what condition, if the service is not delivered then the contract needs renegotiation e.g rent reduction

  • TheMindsetTraveller on 28/05/2020 - 13:54
    +23

    My own opinion, worth not even two cents, sounds like the landlord has acted as reasonably as s/he could and is trying to resolve the issues. They aren't beating around the bush here and taking a day or two to action things, they are doing it pretty much on the day of your contact which sounds fair and reasonable.

    • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 14:38
      +1

      Thank you for your input

    • smpantsonfire on 30/05/2020 - 12:08

      Not too mention, if OP owned his own house, what would they do? There's no one to claim anything from there.

  • Tovers93 on 28/05/2020 - 13:57

    I can understand your frustration, but the timeline of events sounds like they acted as quickly as you could reasonably expect given the problem. It sounds like something that isn't a simple fix. If they get it done within a week, I'd say they've responded fairly and no further action needed. If it drags on beyond that, you may have a case

    • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 14:42

      Thanks for your input because I really have no clue how much it would cost to get it fixed in the first place or if a week is enough time to have it done I thought I’d ask before asking them but I won’t be for the time being. As long as it gets started on hopefully by tomorrow if not Monday then for the time being we’ll put up with it. Thanks

  • NatoTomato on 28/05/2020 - 14:00
    +12

    This Monday 12 in the afternoon we notified the real estate agency that the drain behind our main bathroom was overflowing with waste and water but this time worse and because it’s 2m behind our back door and right next to our undercover area so the smell is more noticeable. She informed the landlord but nothing was done that day.

    Tuesday 10.30 in the morning I again contacted the real estate agency asking about fixing the issue she told us she had told the landlord on Monday. The same plumber ended up coming Tuesday around midday and concluded the problem must be in one of the main pipes and he needed another plumber with a camera to come in.

    Note the bold in the first quote. Nothing was done that day by the plumber. But I 100% guaruntee that the landlord got a hold of the plumber that day, and the plumber came around the day after.

    It doesn't sound like anythings been done wrong on the side of the real estate, the landlord or the plumber. Unfortunately, even though these issues cause discomfort, the repair on them can take time.

    I don't think you're entitled to anything.

    • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 15:55
      +1

      Thanks for your input

  • JimmyF on 28/05/2020 - 14:17

    Rent Reduction? Sewerage Leak Caused by Broken Pipe

    The landlord is working to resolve your issue, the first leak was repaired in 24 hours, the 2nd leak the landlord has the plumber on to it already. These things take time to repair.

    Sure, you can ask for a reduction and as a landlord, if I had to give you one when I'm working to resolve your issue, the next time you call up for a 'repair' I'll drag my heals. The plumber is costing them money to come out and 'attend'.

    So sure ask for a $50-80 reduction per week for not having access to the back yard, but will it be worth it next time you want something repaired and the landlord goes, nah stuff it, they can wait a few days this time.

    • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 14:32

      Thanks for your input although I don’t agree with it. For the most part we’ve lived her almost 3 years always paid rent on time and most minor repairs we fix ourselves rather then contacting the agency. This is the first big repair we’ve needed done.

      • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 14:52

        I didn’t neg you btw

      • JimmyF on 28/05/2020 - 15:12
        -5

        Thanks for your input although I don’t agree with it

        You asked for input, you got input. If you only wanted people to agree with you, then well yeah thats called living in a bubble aka Trump.

        It would appear most people replying think asking for a reduction isn't warranted in this case as the landlord is acting on the issues in a timely manner. While linked they are two different issues.

        and most minor repairs we fix ourselves rather then contacting the agency.

        That was your choice though.

        I didn’t neg you btw

        Meh, there are lots of cry babies around this place. Honestly don't care if they don't agree. These are the same people that demand a store prices matches some random website, so they can save $2 on a item or drive 50kms to get fuel 2c off.

        Anyhow, best of luck with the repair and getting a rent reduction, as that seems to be what you want.

        • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 15:43
          +1

          Thanks for your comment, I’ve taken into account everyone’s input so far even yours. Im more than happy to hear other people’s opinions regardless if they agree with me or not. Thank you.

        • Vote for Pedro on 30/05/2020 - 13:19
          +1

          If a good or service is faulty the you are entitled to some remedy. This is a business transaction. Tenant is a customer paying for a product/service.

          The vindictive approach you suggest may occur as a result of asking for a reasonable remedy is everything wrong with the rental system in Australia.

          • JimmyF on 30/05/2020 - 15:49

            @Vote for Pedro:

            The vindictive approach you suggest may occur as a result of asking for a reasonable remedy is everything wrong with the rental system in Australia.

            I think you meant to say the entitlement with renters is what is wrong with the rental system.

            The landlord has responded straight away to BOTH issues when raised. The plumber is working on it. The OP has had two different plumbers out 3 times already.

            The fact that you and the OP feel they need a 'reduced' rent straight away is what is wrong with the entitled renters.

            As a landlord who is paying thousands of dollars to have it repaired as fast as they can, if the tenant turns around and starts bitching about a rent reduction while I'm working as hard as I can to fix it as they can't 'use the back yard' for 3 days, then yeah I'll be taking a go slow approach next time they ask for a fix and picking the crap out of the inspections.

            Renting is a two way street, its give and take between the two parties. If you want to play hard ball, then don't play the victim card when the landlord does too.

            • Vote for Pedro on 30/05/2020 - 18:42
              +3

              @JimmyF: I’m sorry, having an investment property is a business. The tenant is a customer. The “landlord” is the business owner. It’s a transaction. At the moment there is a faulty product. Why should a customer care about your business expenses or cost of business?

              • JimmyF on 30/05/2020 - 19:18
                +1

                @Vote for Pedro:

                The tenant is a customer. The “landlord” is the business owner. It’s a transaction

                Agreed, but just like any business relationship, as a 'business' owner if your 'customer' treats you like shit, do you jump for that customer next time they want to do a transaction with you? You seem to have some entitled view that you're entitled to something at every turn.

                The OP to the sounds of it will be without the back yard for 1-2 week. Sure they could treat the 'business' owner like shit and ask for a rent reduction for that 1 week. But you know what? there might be impacts from doing that the next time you want to deal with the business owner.

                Lets say, you head to your local coffee shop and scream at them the coffee is too hot or cold and you want a new one or discount. Then see what level of 'service' you get when you go back in again?

                Why should a customer care about your business expenses or cost of business?

                It appears your entitlement is blinding you and you seem to think this is a one sided arranged. As I said business cough cough renting is a two way street, its give and take between the two parties. If you want to play hard ball to say $80/wk for 1-2 weeks, then don't play the victim card when the landlord plays hard ball back.

                • Vote for Pedro on 30/05/2020 - 19:26
                  +1

                  @JimmyF: In this country there is a master/serf attitude towards renting. That needs to change and be treated for what it is, a business transaction.

                  If something is faulty, it should be fixed. If it’s reasonably significant, a rebate should be provided. Conversely, a tenant must pay rent and treat the product with reasonable care.

                  I can’t for the life of me understand why you find this unreasonable.

                  Also, OP is not screaming. He literally has shit in his backyard.

                  • gromit on 01/06/2020 - 17:38

                    @Vote for Pedro: At the moment the master is very much the renter with how much the laws have turned in favour of the renter. I think JimmyF has it dead on, it is very much give and take, any ONGOING business transaction you want both parties to be happy otherwise it will all come to tears.

                    • Vote for Pedro on 01/06/2020 - 18:44

                      @gromit: I don’t agree with laws that put anything in anyone’s favour. I consider it a business transaction. But it’s also not good to be a dick to each other.

                • sarahlump on 01/06/2020 - 12:22
                  +1

                  @JimmyF: 'a 'business' owner if your 'customer' treats you like shit, do you jump for that customer next time they want to do a transaction with you? You seem to have some entitled view that you're entitled to something at every turn.'

                  This transaction is dictated under a contract so it's whatever the contract says. telling your business that they delivered their product faulty and late and not according to contract as a customer means you don't pay for it.

      • Franc-T on 01/06/2020 - 14:46

        If you are on good terms and its a long term rent, wouldn't ask for a reduction as long as they appear to be doing everything promptly. You may be entitled to some remedy but is it really worth it?

        Ie if they have treated you well, treat them well.

  • Nugs on 28/05/2020 - 14:30
    +2

    "he asked us to use less toilet paper"
    Have you been wasting toilet paper during the shortage?

    • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 14:50
      +1

      Lol at first we thought it was our fault as we had guests over the weekend before we were relieved when the plumber told us it wasn’t.

      • Intoxicoligist on 30/05/2020 - 09:29
        +2

        Hahahahahaha

        I mean I get it from his side, but asking someone to use less loo paper? WHAT DO YOU WANT ME TO WONDER ROUND WITH A SHITTY ASS ALL DAY?

        • Luckyuser on 30/05/2020 - 10:15

          Yeah well I did think him asking us to use less was a little dodgy considering it’s his problem not ours but we have been trying to lol

  • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 14:52

    Just out of curiosity does anyone know how much a job like this would cost to fix?

    • MickMonk on 28/05/2020 - 15:04
      +2

      depends on the severity of it. things like this can go from a grand up to north of 20 grand dependent on how much needs dug up and replacing.

      • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 15:11

        Ouch! On Tuesday I did overhear him ask the plumber for a cheaper price but I didn’t hear the initial price he was given.

        • JimmyF on 28/05/2020 - 15:14

          yes the repair will be in the thousands of dollars if the main is blocked and has dug up for repairs.

          Even if its just blocked, it will be a 4 figure repair job to send a camera down, find the fault, clear the blockage etc.

          • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 17:15

            @JimmyF: Plumber said it’s broken from the tree roots

            • legendary-noob on 01/06/2020 - 08:31

              @Luckyuser: had something similar happened too
              tenant notified immediately
              we arranged a plumber immediately but i think took about a week to fix
              they didnt complain, perhaps it wasnt as bad as yours
              but then it wasnt 10k type expensive
              probably a few grand for me, was probably lucky

    • aragornelessar on 28/05/2020 - 16:05

      At least they worked out it was roots before digging it up. My parents had a blockage, plumber could only tell it was a blockage somewhere. They dug a 1-2 metre hole in the front yard to work out what the blockage was and then said, "So hey, it's a tree root that's broken the pipes as you can see. We can fix it for $5k or we can leave it like this". Uhh, I don't think we have much choice right now…

    • bradje on 29/05/2020 - 12:08
      -4

      <<<Just out of curiosity does anyone know how much a job like this would cost to fix?>>>

      We had some tree roots removed by a plumber recently using an eel. He dug a hole, (soil, no rock), the hole was 3' deep by 18" wide and 4' long. Used the eel for 45mins. Put an above ground plastic access point in at the clay pipe access point. Took 3 hours all up. Charged $1100! I reckon that's $400 per hour for digging a hole. Needless to say he won't be asked back if further plumbing issues arise. He said it was the normal going rate. Reminds me of the mechanic who charged $100 to hit the nut on an old starter motor - $5 to hit the nut, $95 to know where to hit it. I was happy to pay $300 for the work he did with the eel. I couldn't have done it, even after watching him. But the same rate for digging a hole? Oh, and he refused to itemise the account. Yep, buyer beware!

    • od810 on 30/05/2020 - 14:15

      costed me 2700 for the plumber to dig up 1.5m of trench and put pvc pipe in the blocking section.

  • Typical16-bitEnjoyer on 28/05/2020 - 15:20
    -5

    Unfortunately a lot of the posters above are incorrect. You do have a right to a rent reduction. I highly recommend you tell your property manager this and then go from there.

    Lots of information here including the specific sections of the RTA 1997 the Landlord has breached, and the rough basis to calculate a reduction. https://www.tenantsvic.org.au/advice/compensation/

    Contact Consumer Affairs for advice if the RE agent fobs you off. Please note you cannot go direct to VCAT without contacting them.

    • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 15:32

      Thanks for your input. For the time being I won’t be asking for a rent reduction. As we were told by the landlord they would start the job today (so far no one has come) I will wait until later tonight to message the agency asking for a definitive time as to when it will at least get started on.

      • TheMindsetTraveller on 28/05/2020 - 15:52
        +1

        If you read the link that zeggie provided; IF the agent/landlord did not fix OR delay fixing things then you might have a claim.

        But as a few, including myself, have pointed out - the plumber was out at the property on the day of issues being raised, and where the issue could not be resolved on that day, scheduled in for the next available day.

        It is easy for armchair experts, myself guilty of that, to give advice that has zero consequences on us.

        I am a landlord and have always acted in good faith, so I expect my tenants do the same and have some understanding. If there is an issue, I'll get someone out as quick as I can. I remember once the fridge in our fully furnished apartment stopped working. I got a new fridge within 24 hours and offered $150 to replace their food - the tenant was cool and said no thanks.

        If someone annoyed me enough, lucky it hasn't yet, I'd increase their rent after the lease is up or ask them to leave for no-grounds reasons with required notice.

        • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 16:06

          Thanks for your comment I didn’t have a proper read as for the time being I won’t be asking for a reduction in rent as I commented above. We really try to bother them as little as possible in regards to repairs my husband even thought he could fix the initial burst himself but I told him I’d notify the agency.

          At this stage I’d like clearer communication whether it’s from the landlord or the agency if they say it’s going to get started on a certain day or a plumber will come by etc would like for it to actually happen when they say it will. There’s still a chance a plumber may come today if not I’ll notify the agency tonight asking for a more accurate timeframe, atleast then I’m not waiting around for nothing.

          Once again I really do appreciate everyone’s point of view.
          Ps you sound like a cool landlord. 👍🏼

        • Typical16-bitEnjoyer on 28/05/2020 - 16:27
          +1

          If you read the link that zeggie provided

          You completely skipped section 67.

          The loss of the bathroom and backyard is not an insignificant percentage of the property.

          The agent/landlord delaying is another cause of action. Not the action itself.

          The negs are hilarious when the site links literally lifts the duties and requirements from the Residential Tenancy Act - the main authority.

          • TheMindsetTraveller on 28/05/2020 - 16:50

            @Typical16-bitEnjoyer: Maybe you are correct, but from a practical point of view (and as I said its easy to say these things when there are no consequences for us) there is nothing stoping a landlord saying "See you later, no-reason needed, this is you XX days notice to vacate."

            Not all of us landlords and agents are bad apples, in fact more probably landlords want to go good so they keep good tenants renting, income flows in, less headaches for everyone.

            The OP would probably have a better chance of getting a rent reduction by way of suggesting s/he is looking at other rental properties and may consider moving in light of the current economic situation.

            • sarahlump on 01/06/2020 - 12:25

              @TheMindsetTraveller: "See you later, no-reason needed, this is you XX days notice to vacate."

              It's called a tenancy agreement I believe. Legislation protects tenants from a landlord going ' "See you later, no-reason needed, this is you XX days notice to vacate."

          • tebbybabes on 28/05/2020 - 17:50

            @Typical16-bitEnjoyer: I read through the tenancies act, including the section that you mentioned was skipped.

            From an uninvolved third party view, I believe that the landlord has been and is taking reasonable steps to rectify the OP's issue. You're also correct that you have the right to claim compensation… I don't think the act states that compensation is obligatory. If making a claim, then the tenant has prove their loss. The deciding authority will also have to decide whether the landlord has taken reasonable steps.

            • Typical16-bitEnjoyer on 29/05/2020 - 08:24

              @tebbybabes:

              I don't think the act states that compensation is obligatory

              Obligatory isn't the correct word. I never certainly never used that word. Compensation may be sought by the Tenant and may be ordered by Tribunal under Section 210.

        • [Deactivated] on 28/05/2020 - 17:54

          It is easy for armchair experts, myself guilty of that, to give advice

          Why the assumption that everyone who is commenting here are armchair experts?

          • TheMindsetTraveller on 28/05/2020 - 21:19

            @[Deactivated]: It is a public forum to help find deals, so thus it is safer to assume everybody is an armchair expert because views, opinions, advice, suggestions are pretty much just that, should be "taken with a grain of salt".

            Until someone can verify that a person does indeed 'work' or is 'qualified' in such a field that they are providing advice on, then any advice or opinion should have caveats on them - hence the well accepted title of an armchair expert should remain.

            • sarahlump on 01/06/2020 - 12:26

              @TheMindsetTraveller: Erm, putting expert in armchair expert is honestly quite a misnomer. Experts are quite a specific thing. Misinformation is the result of incorrectly using this term.

  • ozzy1 on 28/05/2020 - 15:23

    How old is the property?

    • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 15:36
      +1

      Not 100% sure but I was given the sewerage plan from the landlord and it says finalised/issued in 1983.

  • WreckTangle on 28/05/2020 - 15:37

    You havent experienced a financial loss and the landlord has taken action to resolve the issue, and it already sounds expensive for them. If you do ask for a rent reduction be prepared to move out at the end of your lease, cos they probably won’t renew you.

    • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 15:51

      Currently not on a lease but in all honesty we were thinking of moving out prior to this. Because of COVID closing gyms we set up a really decent gym in the garage but the garage doesn’t have a door lol (never had a door when we moved in). We asked a month ago the possibility of the landlord putting one on but we’re denied so we have seriously thought about moving. Thanks for your input.

      • kahn on 28/05/2020 - 16:54
        +1

        A really decent gym without a door? Hmmm, where abouts is this free gym you mention?

      • [Deactivated] on 28/05/2020 - 17:12

        Currently not on a lease

        Do you mean you're on a periodic lease? or no lease at all?

        • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 17:20

          Lease ended a year ago we got given a new one last year but never handed it in it would have expired last month anyway.

          • [Deactivated] on 28/05/2020 - 17:34

            @Luckyuser: That's a periodic lease often called a month-to-month lease. The 120 days' notice would still apply. It is also against the law to give a tenant a notice to vacate because they were exercising their legal rights, or saying they would do so.

            Personally, I would ask for a rent reduction until the problem is solved. I think you're well within your right to do so . Basically what Zeggie said above. No idea why he's getting negged.

            • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 18:04

              @[Deactivated]: Thanks jar jar binks. I’m glad some people see it from my point of view although as I mentioned in previous comments we won’t be asking for a rent reduction for the time being.

              For now I’m just wanting it fixed ASAP preferably by next weekend as my sisters turning 25 and wanted to have some friends over but that’s not ideal when there’s sewerage waste a metre from the outside under cover area lol.

              I have messaged the agency informing them no one came today and for a definitive day I can expect them to start working on it so then at least I’m not waiting at home for nothing. As previous people stated it looks like it’s going to be an expensive job and although I sympathise with the landlord (financially he may not have the money right now, who knows) it is something that really needs to be attended to.

              • Intoxicoligist on 30/05/2020 - 09:31
                +2

                @Luckyuser: Don't take your landlords financial situation into account, they will not be taking yours into theirs.

                The landlord SHOULD have property insurrance to cover the expense.

      • [Deactivated] on 29/05/2020 - 10:26

        Wouldn't a garage without a door be considered a carport?

        • Luckyuser on 29/05/2020 - 11:42

          It’s an older style garage In the backyard thankfully away from the overflowing drain.

    • Typical16-bitEnjoyer on 28/05/2020 - 16:29
      +1

      cos they probably won’t renew you

      You might be a few years behind developments in Residential tenancy law in Victoria.

      The Landlord requires a bonafide reason to end a tenancy.

      • [Deactivated] on 28/05/2020 - 16:47

        The Landlord requires a bonafide reason to end a tenancy.

        or he has to give the tenant 120 days written notice, as long as the termination date specified on the notice does not reduce the fixed-term tenancy period.

        In OP's case, I would request a rent reduction. Not his problem if the landlord is insisting on getting a plumber who is clearly out of his depth to fix the problem.

        • Spending2Much on 29/05/2020 - 12:57

          '120 days written notice, as long as the termination date specified on the notice, does not reduce the fixed term tenancy period'

          So, 4 months notice, not to renew the lease, at the end of the lease?

          • [Deactivated] on 29/05/2020 - 12:58

            @Spending2Much: Yep. Unless you have a valid reason to terminate.

            • Spending2Much on 29/05/2020 - 12:59

              @[Deactivated]: Does this apply also for tenants, not resigning lease for another year, or fixed term?

              • [Deactivated] on 29/05/2020 - 13:01

                @Spending2Much: Tenants only need to give 28days notice.This is in Vic.

                Edit : In WA, it's 30 days.

        • Typical16-bitEnjoyer on 29/05/2020 - 13:52

          or he has to give the tenant 120 days written notice, as long as the termination date specified on the notice does not reduce the fixed-term tenancy period.

          Nope. Was scheduled to change albeit it has been delayed due to covid.

          https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/housing/renting/changes-to-r…

          Since VCAT enforcement has also been halted, good luck getting a 120 day notice to vacate warrant executed prior to 2021.

          • [Deactivated] on 29/05/2020 - 14:11

            @Typical16-bitEnjoyer: Thanks for the link! How I wish those rules were around when I was a renter. Moving every year was a PITA.

      • TheMindsetTraveller on 28/05/2020 - 16:53

        Yet it is permissable to end a tenancy, with no reasons, with 120 days notice in Victoria.

    • Vote for Pedro on 30/05/2020 - 08:58
      +3

      OP has suffered a loss. Paying full price for a faulty product.

      • whooah1979 on 30/05/2020 - 09:45

        Paying full price for a faulty product.

        Accommodation is a service.

  • firedragon on 28/05/2020 - 15:56

    Wow, I thought sewage leaking out was an emergency. When some water/sewage came out of the toilet and started flooding the bathroom floor and the carpet outside the bathroom door, the real estate agent sent an emergency plumber in about half an hour.

    • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 17:30

      It does classify as an emergency repair but I couldn’t find an exact time frame it needs to be fixed by when I searched online. Also I guess because it is outside not inside like yours it’s not as urgent.

      • cassea on 29/05/2020 - 11:42

        We had an outside sewerage spill on Christmas Day and plumbers were sent out to deal with it. It is considered an urgent matter.

  • sd4f on 28/05/2020 - 17:32

    Ultimately it's not your problem, but just as a warning, this is the fairly typical method employed by unscrupulous plumbers who are trying to get a nice fat job. It's always roots in the pipe, very easy for them to play a prerecorded video. Like it may be a genuine case, but regardless, you don't go straight in and get the pipe changed, you get a plumber with a jet blaster. The jet blaster will cut through roots, and you're looking at a couple of hundred dollars, instead of a job which invariably will cost a few thousand. It mightn't solve the problem in the long term, but at the cost difference, I think it's worth a shot.

    • Luckyuser on 28/05/2020 - 17:42

      The first plumber who is his usual guy said he thought it was either from the tree roots in our backyard or a blockage in the main pipe. The second plumber who was a new one said it was a broken pipe from the tree roots. I don’t know much about plumbing but he did have a big hose connecting from his truck to the tap pumping it into the drain and it didn’t solve the problem, the landlord was with him while he was doing so.

  • Ozpit on 29/05/2020 - 09:22

    As far as the timeliness of the plumber goes, note that he would have had a string of jobs lined up or on the go before yours came along. So he’s probably doing his best to squeeze yours in because of its relative urgency. No doubt he’s had to shuffle some of these other jobs so he can work on yours. This means he’s probably putting some of these other clients offside because he’s not able to start on/complete their jobs by the times/dates he had previously said. It would be rare to find a plumber who had no other jobs on the go, and it would be unreasonable to expect him to put all of his other jobs aside and just focus on yours.

    • cassea on 29/05/2020 - 11:39
      +1

      Sewerage spills are one of the the highest priorities. Plumbers will often reschedule other jobs to attend to urgent sewerage work

    • Luckyuser on 29/05/2020 - 11:40

      Thanks for your input I do understand the plumber may have other jobs but I don’t think it’s unreasonable of me to want it fixed ASAP.

  • Luckyuser on 29/05/2020 - 16:42
    +1

    Just an update if anyone was interested.

    Yesterday morning (Thursday) I messaged the property manager letting them know the landlord said they would have a plumber in. No one came, messaged her 5.30pm yesterday letting her know.

    This morning 10am messaged her again asking if we could expect anyone to come and fix the problem.

    Her actual message: “Good morning, apparently the plumber will be out today to dig and try to find the damaged pipe and will hopefully have this sorted by the end of e weekend for you. It's a very big job.”

    4.30pm Friday no one has come.

    • Webber000 on 29/05/2020 - 18:15

      Oh dear. Its going to cost even more for someone to come out on a weekend so my guess is that your now looking Monday…
      If no one is there by 10am Monday then consider contacting agent for a rent reduction - just to try to hurry the landlord along. Or say your going to start looking for somewhere else to rent or casually ask them what your notice period is - just so the landlord gets the message to hurry up now.
      Tradies regularly run late or cancel, but if your a good longstanding tenent then the landlord should be keeping on top of that and providing you updates given he seems to be self managing it rather than using the agent to do maintenance.

      • Luckyuser on 29/05/2020 - 18:41

        I ended up messaging the pm 4.30 this afternoon letting her know no one came, her reply was if it was her plumber she would have sorted it sooner (I believe her) and that she’d call the landlord. She messaged again a few minutes later saying a plumber should still be coming tonight. 6.40pm so far nothing.

        I’ve just messaged again asking for 100% certainty if we can expect anyone over the weekend otherwise I’d prefer to leave the house lol.

        My guess is they’ll get started on Monday fingers crossed.

        • Intoxicoligist on 30/05/2020 - 09:34

          Emergency repairs
          The tenant should contact the property manager/owner or the nominated repairer (listed on the tenancy agreement) about the problem. It is a good idea to put the request in writing as evidence of notification.

          If they cannot be contacted, the tenant can arrange for a qualified person to carry out emergency repairs to a maximum value of 2 weeks rent.

          Emergency repairs are:

          a burst water service or a serious water service leak
          a blocked or broken toilet
          a serious roof leak
          a gas leak
          a dangerous electrical fault
          flooding or serious flood damage
          serious storm, fire or impact damage
          a failure or breakdown of the gas, electricity or water supply
          a failure or breakdown of an essential service or appliance on the property for hot water, cooking or heating
          a fault or damage that makes the property unsafe or insecure
          a fault or damage likely to injure a person, damage property or unduly inconvenience a tenant
          a serious fault in a staircase, lift or other common area of the property that unduly inconveniences a tenant in gaining access to, or using, the property.
          All other repairs are considered routine repairs.

          Paying for emergency repairs
          If the tenant pays the repairer they need to give all receipts to the property manager/owner who must pay them back within 7 days.

          Alternatively, the tenant may ask the property manager/owner to pay the repairer directly.

          https://www.rta.qld.gov.au/Renting/During-a-tenancy/Maintena…

          • Luckyuser on 30/05/2020 - 10:39

            @Intoxicoligist: Thanks for your comment we notified our property manager of the problem on Monday because the landlord uses his own plumber I believe that’s where the delay has been. Whether it’s the landlord or plumber I’ve no idea. In regards to emergency repairs I may enquire with the property manager and see what our choices are there but as others have said it may cost more than $1800 and $1800 is the max we’d be compensated if we chose to go that route.

      • Oz em on 29/05/2020 - 22:00
        +2

        There is no notice if you leave over repairs not done.
        It’s a health hazard.

  • whooah1979 on 29/05/2020 - 16:51
    +1

    Landlord told us he’ll get someone started on it Thursday and it will take a week as they need to dig up the ground etc,

    This sounds like bull. It don't take a week to dig up a lead-in sewerage pipe.

    OP, ask for a reduction in rent for every day that they delay the repairs.

  • Luckyuser on 29/05/2020 - 19:00

    Just a warning here’s a vid from this morning of the overflowing drain, it’s a bit gross so beware. https://imgur.com/a/knwjGEV

    • JimmyF on 31/05/2020 - 11:11

      Are you sure its sewage, I don't see any corn :)

  • bmerigan on 29/05/2020 - 21:15

    If it was your own house you would be in exactly the same situation re loss of access.
    As it is the landlord is the one taking a huge financial hit to fix the issue, I think it would be kicking them while they're down to ask for a rent reduction on top of that.

    • whooah1979 on 29/05/2020 - 21:30
      +2

      The landlord have to hire an emergency crew that can do the job on the same day. We had a leadin leak and hired a crew to fix it. It took four hours and cost >$2k.

      The tenant is being inconvenienced with crap coming out of the ground. They’ve every right to ask for compensation.

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