Here in QLD its 2 months notice on expired lease and re the maintenance if they are emergency repair we are allowed to get them fixed up to 2 weeks rent and the bill goes to the owner.

I would be calling your local tenancy authority because he is still bound by all the rules and regulations as a private landlord he is just saving himself money in no management fees.

Sorry till take my Property mangaer hat off now LOL

Hope this helps