Where to Get Help for Bond Refunds & Claims in South Australia

As a renter in South Australia, understanding your entitlements around bond refunds and claims can be crucial. Knowing where to seek help if disputes arise ensures you receive your bond back swiftly and without unnecessary stress.

Understanding Bond Refunds in South Australia

At the end of your tenancy, retrieving your bond is usually straightforward. However, disputes can occur over factors like property damage or unpaid rent. Here’s where to find help.

South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT)

The South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT) is the main body that resolves disputes between tenants and landlords. If informal discussions fail, you can apply to SACAT for a resolution.

Follow the Residential Tenancies Act 1995

The Residential Tenancies Act 1995 SA outlines clear guidelines for landlords and tenants regarding bonds. Understanding these can help in negotiating disputes.

Using Official Forms

• Form 7 - Notice of Intention to Claim: Use Form 7 if you intend to claim part or all of the bond. This can be required when there’s a disagreement over bond claims. More details can be found on the SA Government website.

Ensure you maintain communication with your landlord to resolve disputes amicably before escalating to SACAT.

FAQs on Bond Refunds

1. What can I do if my landlord refuses to refund my bond? You can lodge an application with SACAT for an independent decision on the matter.
2. How long does it take to get my bond back? Bond refunds are typically processed within 14 days if both parties agree.
3. Who keeps the bond money during the tenancy? Bonds are held by the South Australian Government's Consumer and Business Services (CBS) until the end of the tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• South Australian Tenants Information and Advocacy Service (TIAS) provides free advice and support.
• Legal Services Commission of South Australia offers legal advice and assistance with tenancy issues.
• Contact Consumer and Business Services (CBS) for further guidance on renting and bond claims.

---

1. ¹ South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT)
2. ² Residential Tenancies Act 1995
3. ³ SA Government Bond Refunds

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