How long does my landlord have to return my bond in Queensland?
There's no fixed "deadline" — but once you and your landlord agree, the RTA usually pays a refund within 2–3 days. The hold-ups are almost always disputes, not the RTA.
Want Compass to draft your bond-refund letter, citing the right QLD sections?
In Queensland your bond is held by the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) — not your agent. (Your landlord was legally required to lodge it with the RTA within 10 days of receiving it. If they never did, that's an offence, and it strengthens your position.)
To get it back, a Refund of rental bond (Form 4) is lodged. If everyone agrees, the RTA pays out fast — often within hours via the fast-track, usually 2–3 business days. If your landlord claims part of it for "damage" or cleaning and you disagree, they (or you) lodge a Dispute resolution request (Form 16). If a party doesn't respond within 14 days, the bond is paid out as the first request directed. Unresolved disputes go to QCAT.
What you can do right now
- Check your entry condition report and your move-in photos — that's what wins a bond dispute.
- Lodge your Form 4 promptly; don't wait for the agent.
- If they're claiming for wear and tear (not damage), you can refuse — fair wear and tear isn't deductible.
Related questions
Free help
- Tenants Queensland
- Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA)
General information, not legal advice.
Want Compass to draft your bond-refund letter, citing the right QLD sections?