Your bond rights in Victoria
The bond can't be more than one month's rent (if rent is $900 a week or less).
Your rights in plain English
- It must be lodged with the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA) within 10 business days. The RTBA sends you a receipt.
- Never sign a blank bond claim form.
- At the end, the landlord can only claim for damage beyond fair wear and tear, unpaid rent or reasonable cleaning, and must have evidence. Fair wear and tear (faded paint, worn carpet) is not your cost.
- If they make a claim you disagree with, you have 14 days to dispute it. Disputes go to Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria, then VCAT.
Put it in writing, with your rights spelled out
Our free email tool writes the message to your agent for Victoria, quoting your rights. Keep dated photos and a record you can use at the end of your lease.
The email tool is free. The $29 Tenancy Pass adds your condition report and dated record for the whole lease, incl. GST, with a 14-day money-back guarantee.
What your email should say
- Under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (Vic), you may only claim for damage beyond fair wear and tear, unpaid rent or reasonable cleaning, and any claim must be supported by evidence.
- I do not consent to any deduction that is not itemised and supported by evidence. If we cannot agree, I will dispute the claim through Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria and VCAT.
Where to get help
Consumer Affairs Victoria (1300 55 81 81) · Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria · VCAT.
Source: Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (Vic). General information only, not legal advice. Last checked October 2026. Check your state's tenancy authority for your situation.