FAQs on Rent, Bond & Holding Deposits in ACT

Renting a home in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) comes with its own set of rules and guidelines. Understanding rent, bond, and holding deposits can help you feel more secure as a tenant. Below, we delve into some of the most commonly asked questions to clarify these aspects.

Understanding Rent in the ACT

As a tenant in the ACT, you are required to pay rent regularly as per your lease agreement. The Residential Tenancies Act 1997 governs the rules regarding rent, including rent increases and payment methods.

How is Rent Paid?

• Rent is typically paid weekly, fortnightly, or monthly, depending on your agreement.
• Payment methods can include electronic transfers, direct debit, or other agreed-upon methods with your landlord.

Can Rent Be Increased?

Your landlord can increase the rent, but only once every 12 months, ensuring they provide a minimum of eight weeks' notice in writing.

Bond and Holding Deposits

In the ACT, a rental bond is a security deposit held as protection for the landlord in case of any breaches of the rental agreement by the tenant.

How Much Bond Can Be Charged?

The maximum bond allowed is equivalent to four weeks' rent for most properties. The bond must be lodged with the ACT Revenue Office within two weeks of receipt.

What is a Holding Deposit?

A holding deposit is a sum paid to secure a property until the lease is finalized. This amount is typically applied to the first week's rent or the bond upon signing the lease agreement.

Tip: Make sure to request a receipt or confirmation when paying a holding deposit to ensure transparency and proof of payment.

Official Forms and Disputes

Bond Lodgment

• Form Name: Rental Bond Lodgement Form
• Use: To lodge your rental bond with the ACT Revenue Office. This is crucial for securing your bond money and ensuring it's returned at the end of your tenancy.
• ACT Revenue Office Rental Bonds

Handling Disputes

If disputes arise, especially concerning bond refunds or rent issues, they can be resolved through the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT). The tribunal provides a platform for tenants and landlords to resolve disagreements legally and fairly.

ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you are facing difficulties or require further assistance, reach out to these resources:

• ACT Revenue Office – Rental Bonds
• ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal
• Tenants' Union ACT

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1. What is the maximum bond allowed in ACT? The maximum bond typically allowed is four weeks' rent.
2. How often can rent be increased? Rent can be increased only once every 12 months with an eight weeks' notice in writing.
3. What should I do if I have a tenancy dispute? You can seek resolution through the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT).

1. How to lodge a rental bond in ACT?
   1. Fill in the Rental Bond Lodgement Form available at the ACT Revenue Office.
   2. Submit the form along with the bond payment within two weeks of receipt.
   3. Ensure you receive confirmation from the ACT Revenue Office.
2. How to challenge a rent increase in ACT?
   1. Review the notice to ensure it was given following the required notice period.
   2. Contact your landlord in writing to discuss your concerns or possible negotiations.
   3. If unresolved, appeal to the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

Key takeaways include ensuring understanding of the rent increase process, timely lodging of the bond, and utilizing resources like ACAT for dispute resolution.

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