Getting Help with Bond Refunds in ACT

If you're renting in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and facing difficulties getting your rental bond refunded, you are not alone. Navigating bond refunds and claims can be challenging, especially if there's a dispute. Understanding where to get help can expedite the process and ensure your rights are protected.

Understanding Bond Refunds

When your lease ends, you may want your bond back promptly. The bond is generally held by the ACT's Office of Rental Bonds and can be claimed once you and the landlord agree on return conditions. Disagreements can arise if there are claims of property damage or unpaid rent.

Conditions for Bond Refund

• The property should be cleaned and returned to its original condition, allowing for fair wear and tear.
• Rent should be paid up to the claim date.
• Unresolved damages beyond fair wear and tear could lead to a dispute.

How to Claim Your Bond Refund

To claim your bond, use the Bond Refund Form, available from the Access Canberra website. Here’s how you can claim it:

1. Complete the Bond Refund Form: Both parties should sign the form, agreeing on the bond return amount.
2. Submit the Form: Send the completed form to the Office of Rental Bonds for processing.

Resolving Bond Disputes

If there's a disagreement about the bond refund amount, you might need to seek a resolution through the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT). The tribunal can mediate disputes and make binding decisions.

When to Apply to ACAT

You can apply to ACAT when:

• Your landlord claims more than you're willing to agree to.
• There are disputes regarding property conditions, unpaid rent, or damages.

Tip: Documenting the condition of the property at the start and end of your tenancy helps support your case in disputes.

Key Legislation

The handling of bonds is governed by the Residential Tenancies Act 1997. Understanding your rights and responsibilities under this Act is crucial for resolving rental issues.

6. What if my landlord doesn't agree to a full bond refund? If there's a dispute, you can apply to ACAT for resolution.
7. How long does it take to get a bond refund in ACT? Once both parties agree, the bond is typically processed within a couple of weeks.
8. Can I claim interest on my rental bond? No, interest is not paid on residential bonds held by the ACT government.

1. How to Apply for Bond Refund in ACT
   1. Step 1: Access the Bond Refund Form - Download and print from Access Canberra.
   2. Step 2: Fill Out Details - Ensure both tenant and landlord agree and sign.
   3. Step 3: Submit the Form - Send to the Office of Rental Bonds for processing.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you need further assistance with bond issues, consider contacting these resources:

• Legal Aid ACT for legal advice
• Tenants' Union ACT for tenant advocacy
• ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) for dispute resolution

---

1. Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth)
2. Residential Tenancies Act 1997

Categories

General Tenant Rights & Protections Tenancy Agreements & Renewals Rent, Bond & Holding Deposits Moving In & Condition Reports Ending a Tenancy & Moving Out Repairs, Maintenance & Urgent Issues Minimum Standards & Habitability Evictions & Breach Notices Co-Tenancies, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Equal Housing Access Disability Access & Reasonable Adjustments Utilities, Water & Internet Billing Public, Community & Social Housing Rent Increases & Rent Controls Privacy & Landlord Entry Rules Locks, Keys & Security Obligations Resolving Disputes & Tribunal Processes Harassment, Threats & Landlord Misconduct Boarding Houses, Rooming Houses & Lodgers Caravan Parks & Residential Parks Bond Refunds & Claims Notice Periods & Tenancy Termination Entry Condition Breaches & Compensation Tenant Advocacy & Legal Aid