How long does my landlord have to return my bond in the ACT?
If there's no dispute, an ACT bond refund typically takes about 10 working days to process.
Want Compass to draft your response to the s33 notice and prep your ACAT evidence, citing the right ACT sections?
In the ACT your bond is held by the ACT Revenue Office (Rental Bonds), not your agent. To release it, a refund request is lodged; you'll be served a bond refund (s33) notice and have 14 days to respond in writing — agreeing or disputing. If everyone agrees, the refund is processed in around 10 working days. If it's disputed, ACT Rental Bonds refers the matter to the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT), and any undisputed portion is refunded in the meantime.
What you can do right now
- Respond to the s33 notice within 14 days — don't let the window lapse.
- Keep your condition report and photos ready in case it goes to ACAT.
- Refuse deductions for fair wear and tear — that's not claimable.
Related questions
Free help
- Tenants' Union ACT
- ACT Revenue Office
General information, not legal advice.
Want Compass to draft your response to the s33 notice and prep your ACAT evidence, citing the right ACT sections?