Receiving a bond deduction claim after moving out is frustrating — especially when you feel the claim is unfair. In Western Australia, you have clear rights and a straightforward process for disputing it. Here's how it works.
Step 1 — Respond in Writing Immediately
As soon as you receive a claim, respond in writing (email is fine). State that you dispute the claim and request a breakdown of what is being claimed and why. Ask for the outgoing condition report if you haven't received it.
Keep your response factual and unemotional. Attach any supporting evidence — photos, receipts for professional cleaning, the ingoing condition report showing pre-existing issues.
Step 2 — Negotiate
Many bond disputes are resolved at this stage. A property manager claiming $400 for a re-clean on a property where you have a professional cleaning receipt and a bond back guarantee from the cleaner is in a weak position. Present your evidence clearly and offer to discuss.
Step 3 — Contact Consumer Protection WA
Consumer Protection WA provides free advice on bond disputes and tenancy rights. They can explain the process, help you understand your position, and in some cases assist with conciliation between you and the property manager.
Phone: 1300 30 40 54 | Website: consumerprotection.wa.gov.au
Step 4 — Apply to the Magistrates Court
If the property manager lodges a formal claim against your bond with the Bond Administrator, you can contest it through the Magistrates Court of WA. For amounts under $10,000, the process is designed to be accessible without a lawyer.
You'll need to prepare your evidence: the ingoing PCR, outgoing PCR, professional cleaning receipts, photos taken at move-out, and any written correspondence. The court will assess the evidence and make a binding determination.
What Makes a Strong Defence
- Professional bond clean receipt with a bond back guarantee
- Date-stamped photos of the property taken after the clean
- The ingoing PCR showing the issue was pre-existing
- Written correspondence showing you raised the issue promptly
- Evidence that the claimed amount exceeds the actual cost (get competing quotes)
Prevention Is Better Than Dispute
A professional bond clean with a guarantee is the best way to avoid a dispute entirely. If your property manager flags anything within 72 hours, the cleaner returns and fixes it — so by the time any formal claim process could begin, the issue is already resolved.
We respond within 1 hour, 7 days a week.