How do I challenge a real estate agent bond claim in NSW?
Guidance on NSW bond claim disputes involving real estate agents, including the Residential Tenancies Act and NCAT.
Regulator
NCAT
Key legislation
Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW)
Dispute path
Letter first, deadline tracked. If they go quiet, escalation to NCAT is prepped and ready.
A bond claim dispute in NSW usually turns on who is entitled to the bond, whether there was damage, and whether the agent or landlord has provided the required evidence. The Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW) is the main law to rely on when a bond is being claimed at the end of a tenancy.
Collect the lease, the bond lodgement records, photos of the property, repair logs, and any messages about cleaning or damage. The body of the complaint should explain why the claim is excessive, unsupported, or not consistent with the tenancy record.
If the dispute cannot be resolved directly, NCAT is the body that hears these residential tenancy matters. The strongest cases are the ones that show the condition of the property, the bond records, and the reasons for the deduction in clear terms.
Frequently asked questions
What is a bond claim?
It is a claim by the landlord or agent to keep or deduct part of the bond when the tenancy ends.
What law applies?
The Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW) is the central law for NSW bond disputes.
Does NCAT handle these matters?
Yes. NCAT is the tribunal that hears residential tenancy disputes in NSW.
What evidence do I need?
The lease, bond receipt, condition report, photos, and any inspection records.
Can I challenge cleaning costs?
Yes. You can argue that the claim is excessive or not supported by the condition of the property.
What if the agent is using the bond without a proper reason?
You can ask for the basis for the deduction and escalate it if it is not justified.
What if Real estate agent just ignores my letter?
Silence is not a dead end, it is a deadline breach. Real estate agent is expected to respond to a formal complaint within 30 days. Build your letter with us and we track that deadline for you: a countdown check-in two weeks in, and if they miss the deadline, your escalation to your state tenancy tribunal (NCAT in NSW, VCAT in Victoria, QCAT in Queensland, or equivalent) arrives pre-filled and ready to lodge. Escalating is free.
Free tool
Bond Refund Checker →Related fights
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