After vacating a premises and recieving bond money back in full under the lease, can the real estate agents then require me to pay for carpet that smells from pet urine (2 weeks later)?
VIC Lease - Can Real Estate Agents Require More Money After Bond Returned?
- Thread starter THOMAS BEATTIE
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Hi Thomas,
I'm more familiar with NSW Tenancy law than the Victorian counterpart and I know there are a few differences between the states however my feeling is that once they have signed off on the final inspection report, by filling out the form to return your bond they are effectively saying that they have checked the house and its condition is acceptable to them. Therefore I can't see how they would be able to pursue you for more money.
I'm more familiar with NSW Tenancy law than the Victorian counterpart and I know there are a few differences between the states however my feeling is that once they have signed off on the final inspection report, by filling out the form to return your bond they are effectively saying that they have checked the house and its condition is acceptable to them. Therefore I can't see how they would be able to pursue you for more money.
Hi Thomas,
A return of bond will not dissolve you from liability for damage caused by you during the lease. While most landlords will deduct the costs from the bond, there is no requirement they do this. For property damage, they have until 6 years to initiate action and claim compensation. However, you can dispute the claim on the ground that the damage was not caused by you. The fact they have signed a final inspection and returned your bond could support this defence. However, it will not be a defence in itself.
If you have further questions, you may speak with Consumer Affairs Victoria.
A return of bond will not dissolve you from liability for damage caused by you during the lease. While most landlords will deduct the costs from the bond, there is no requirement they do this. For property damage, they have until 6 years to initiate action and claim compensation. However, you can dispute the claim on the ground that the damage was not caused by you. The fact they have signed a final inspection and returned your bond could support this defence. However, it will not be a defence in itself.
If you have further questions, you may speak with Consumer Affairs Victoria.
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