The recently introduced process relating to bonds claimed without the tenant’s consent will be rolled back following consultation with industry, REISA and SACAT. From now, if a tenant does not respond to a letter of claim sent by CBS, and the landlord or agent can substantiate their claim, the amount claimed from the bond will be paid out to the landlord or agent without the need to apply to SACAT. During the refund process CBS will notify you if you are required to provide evidence to substantiate your claim. If the claim is not able to be substantiated, the claim may be refused by the Commissioner and the landlord or agent would then need to make an application to SACAT.

The roll-back will commence immediately. SACAT is separately writing to claimants who currently have matters before them to advise of the change.

The existing process for paying out undisputed bond applications will remain unchanged. Disputed claims where the Commissioner receives a written notice of dispute prior to paying out the bond will continue to be referred to SACAT. In these cases SACAT will contact landlords or agents to advise that an application with supporting documentation will need to be made to them.