Landlord/REA bond dispute

They are just trying to get money out of you. Good thing you claimed it!

If you left the apartment in the same/better condition then you have nothing to worry about. Good thing you took photos.

You are also not responsible for "fair wear and tear" as a result of your tenancy.

If you're in NSW, according to the NSW Gov website,

"If they do dispute your claim, they’ll have to apply to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal within 14 days. The tribunal will then decide how the bond will be paid."

https://www.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-construction/renting-a-place-to-live/renting-a-property-nsw/moving-out/getting-your-bond-back

If you're not in NSW you should be able to lookup the process of claiming bond in your state. But if you're in NSW, they'll have to prove the condition is due to " negligent, irresponsible or intentional actions that cause damage to the property."

https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-property/renting/ending-a-tenancy

/r/AusLegal Thread