Taking and Lodging Rental Bonds: A Landlord's Guide

What is a Rental Bond?

A rental bond (also called a security deposit in some jurisdictions) is money paid by the tenant at the start of a tenancy to protect the landlord against unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, or other breaches of the tenancy agreement.

Bond money must be lodged with your state, territory, or national bond authority — you cannot simply hold it in your own account. This protects both parties and ensures funds are available when needed.

How Much Bond Can You Take?

Bond limits vary significantly by jurisdiction. Most Australian states limit bond to 4 weeks' rent, but there are important exceptions.

For a detailed breakdown including prepaid rent, check out Mint's Bond & Prepaid Rent Calculator.

When to Take the Bond

Bond is typically paid before the tenant moves in or on the day the tenancy agreement is signed. Common practice is to collect bond, prepaid rent, and the first rental payment before handing over keys.

Where and How to Lodge the Bond

You must lodge the bond with the relevant government authority for your jurisdiction. Each authority provides online lodgement portals that are straightforward to use. Below are the timeframes, requirements, and direct links for each jurisdiction.

Lodgement Timeframes by Jurisdiction

What Information You'll Need to Lodge

Most bond authorities require similar information. Have these details ready before starting the lodgement process:

• Property address: Full street address including postcode
• Landlord details: Full name, postal address, phone number, email
• Tenant details: Full legal name(s), contact information for all tenants listed on the lease
• Bond amount: Exact amount paid (must match what tenant paid)
• Weekly rent: Amount of rent per week
• Lease start date: Date tenancy commenced
• Payment method: How bond will be paid to the authority (usually bank transfer, credit card, or cheque)

What Happens After You Lodge?

Once you've lodged the bond:

1. Confirmation sent: You and the tenant will receive confirmation (usually by email or mail) that the bond has been lodged.
2. Bond held: The authority holds the bond in trust for the duration of the tenancy.
3. Refund process: When the tenancy ends, you can either agree to a full refund to the tenant, or submit a claim if there's damage or unpaid rent.

Bond refunds typically require both parties to agree on the distribution. If there's a dispute, either party can apply to the relevant tribunal for a decision.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Claim Against the Bond

If there's unpaid rent, damage beyond fair wear and tear, or other breaches at the end of the tenancy, you can make a claim against the bond through the same authority where you lodged it.

Key points about bond claims:

• Evidence is essential: Photos, receipts, quotes, invoices, and inspection reports are critical
• Fair wear and tear: You cannot claim for normal deterioration due to regular use and time
• Cleaning standards: Must match entry condition; professional cleaning can only be required if property was professionally cleaned at entry
• Tenant must agree or dispute: If tenant disputes your claim, it goes to tribunal
• Timeframes matter: Most jurisdictions have strict timeframes for making claims after tenancy ends

For detailed guidance on end-of-lease inspections and documenting condition, see Mint's Entry Condition Report guide.