Can my landlord keep my bond for cleaning in WA?

Only if the place was not left reasonably clean, you caused damage beyond normal wear, or you owe money.

Your clock

• By the day on your notice: Dispute
• Goes to the Commissioner to decide: No reply
• 10 days, set in the Commissioner's invitation: Send evidence
• 7 days from the decision: Appeal to court

The rule in WA

• The landlord can claim reasonable cleaning, damage you caused and unpaid rent, not fair wear and tear.
• Cleaning is judged against the condition at the start.
• Since 28 March 2026 the bond administrator releases bonds and the Commissioner decides disputes.

A landlord or agent cannot ask you to sign a release form that does not show the amount for each person.

What to send

I do not agree to the bond claim of [amount]. Any marks are fair wear and tear.

Who to call

• Consumer Protection WA (Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety), 1300 30 40 54
• Magistrates Court of Western Australia (residential tenancy claims), (08) 9425 2222
• Circle Green Community Legal, tenancy advice, (08) 6148 3636

Where this comes from

• Residential Tenancies Act 1987 (WA) ss 81C, 81E, 81F, 81H, 81I
• Consumer Protection WA, Bond disputes for residential tenancies (19 Aug 2026)

General information, not legal advice on your situation.