WA’s New Rental Bond Reforms Are Here: What Property Investors Need to Know

Western Australia’s new bond disposal system has made bond returns more efficient but it’s also introducing new pressures on property investors. 

Under the previous system, bond funds were typically released once both parties agreed on how they should be distributed. If there was a dispute, it would often proceed to the Magistrates Court.

Under the new system:

• Any party can initiate a bond release request.
• All parties are notified once submitted.
• Agreed claims are processed quickly.
• Disputes are referred to the Commissioner for Consumer Protection.

While this provides a faster and more efficient process, one of the most significant changes is the timeframe to respond.

The new 14-day window

Once a bond release request is lodged by a tenant, landlords or property managers have just 14 days to act. 

If no response is submitted within that period, the bond may be automatically released to the tenant.

It’s important to note that a tenant may submit a bond release request as soon as they return the keys.

“That 14-day window might sound reasonable, but when you break down what needs to happen, it’s actually very tight,” Rent Choice General Manager Clare Christiansen explains.

“The property needs to be inspected, issues identified, trades organised, any work completed and invoiced all within that timeframe.”

Increased pressure at the end of a tenancy

The end-of-lease process now requires faster decision-making and stronger coordination.

To make a successful claim, self-managed landlords or property managers typically need to:

• Complete a final inspection.
• Identify damage or outstanding items.
• Arrange and complete repairs or cleaning.
• Obtain and pay invoices.
• Provide documentation to support the claim.

When making a claim against the bond, paid invoices remain the strongest form of evidence, with quotes or booking confirmations considered less persuasive.

How investors can stay ahead

With less room for delays, preparation has become essential.

At Rent Choice, processes have already been adapted to reduce risk under the new system.

“We’ve introduced pre-final inspections before the tenancy ends, so we can identify any issues early,” Clare said.

“This gives us a head start to organise trades and ensure everything is documented properly before a bond claim is needed.”

Preparation is key under the new, faster system

While the new bond disposal process is more streamlined, it also requires greater attention to detail and faster action.

For investors, especially those self-managing, the key takeaway is clear: the end of a tenancy is no longer something you can afford to take slowly.

“Under the new system, self-managed landlords need to be organised and proactive,” Clare said.

“If you’re not prepared, there’s a real risk of missing deadlines and losing the opportunity to make a valid claim.”

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