How long does a bond refund take once both parties agree?

Typically 3-5 working days through Tenancy Services once the refund form is signed by both tenant and landlord. If only one party applies, the other has 10 working days to respond before it's released by default.

What if we don't agree on the amount?

It goes to the Tenancy Tribunal, which typically takes 3-6 weeks to resolve -- worth trying to agree directly first, since that's the much faster path.

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2-3 days before moving

Complete your tenancy condition report and lodge your bond

Complete your condition report and confirm your bond is lodged -- do this in your first days in the new place.

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The condition report you complete when you move in is the main evidence either side has if there's a dispute over your bond when you eventually move out -- worth doing properly on day one, not skimming through it.

How to do it

Walk through the property with your landlord or property manager and fill out the condition report together where possible, noting the state of walls, carpets, appliances, and fixtures.
Photograph everything, including existing marks, scuffs, or wear -- date-stamped photos are far stronger evidence than a written note alone if something's disputed later.
Confirm your bond has actually been lodged with Tenancy Services, not just paid to the landlord or agent -- by law it must be lodged within 23 working days, and lodging it is what protects it as genuinely held bond money rather than cash sitting with your landlord.
Keep your own signed copy of the condition report and your bond lodgement receipt somewhere you can find them again in a year or more.
Note anything not working (a broken latch, a dripping tap) at this stage -- once you've lived there a while, it becomes harder to prove it wasn't something you caused.

Common mistakes

Signing a condition report without actually checking it matches what you see.
Assuming the bond is "sorted" because you paid it, without confirming it was lodged.
Not keeping a personal copy of the report or lodgement confirmation.

Useful links

Initial property inspection — Tenancy Services — the official guidance on what a move-in inspection should cover.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a bond refund take once both parties agree?: Typically 3-5 working days through Tenancy Services once the refund form is signed by both tenant and landlord. If only one party applies, the other has 10 working days to respond before it's released by default.
What if we don't agree on the amount?: It goes to the Tenancy Tribunal, which typically takes 3-6 weeks to resolve -- worth trying to agree directly first, since that's the much faster path.