From 28 March 2026, one of the biggest changes to Western Australia’s tenancy laws will come into effect, fundamentally shifting how rental bonds are claimed, disputed, and released. For landlords, it changes who can initiate a claim, how quickly decisions are made, and how important your documentation will be at the end of every tenancy.
Bond Releases: Key Changes
What is the new bond release system?
From 28 March 2026, the bond release process shifts significantly, with both tenants and landlords now able to initiate a bond claim directly.
Importantly, this means landlords may no longer control when the process begins. A tenant can submit a claim as soon as the tenancy ends, triggering a formal notification to all parties.
Once a claim is lodged, landlords or agents must respond within the required timeframe and provide clear justification for any deductions. Claims must be supported under specific categories such as damage or unpaid rent, with evidence playing a critical role.
• If all parties agree, the bond is released without further delays.
• If there is a dispute or no response, the matter will be referred for Commissioner determination.
This change places greater emphasis on timely action, accurate reporting, and well-documented tenancy records. Without this, landlords risk delays or unfavourable outcomes in the bond distribution process.
What is a Commissioner determination?
One of the most significant changes under these reforms is the move away from court-based bond disputes.
Where disagreements previously required escalation through the Magistrates Court, many disputes will now be determined by the Commissioner for Consumer Protection. This creates a faster, more streamlined process for resolving bond claims without the need for formal court proceedings.
When a dispute arises or a bond claim goes unanswered, the Commissioner will assess the matter and determine how the bond is to be distributed. These decisions are made based on the evidence provided by each party, including property condition reports, inspection records, invoices, and communication history.
Because there is limited opportunity to address gaps in evidence after the fact, proactive management and thorough record-keeping are essential.
What if I’m not happy with the decision?
If you’re dissatisfied with the Commissioner’s decision, you have seven days to appeal to the Magistrates Court.
What does this mean for landlords?
For landlords, the new bond release reforms mean a faster, more streamlined bond claims process, but also increased responsibility. The shift to Commissioner determinations makes detailed property condition reports, routine inspections, and accurate record-keeping more important than ever. To avoid disputes and protect their rental bond, landlords should adopt proactive property management practices, maintain clear documentation throughout the tenancy, and respond promptly to all bond claim notifications.
The new bond release reforms mean a faster, more streamlined bond claims process, but also increased responsibility for landlords.
Pet Bonds: What’s New?
The increase in the maximum pet bond from $260 to $350 is a positive shift for landlords, offering greater financial protection where pets are approved at the property.
Importantly, the pet bond is no longer limited in practical application to fumigation-related costs. It can now be used more broadly to cover any pet-related damage, providing landlords with more flexibility when addressing issues such as staining, odour treatment, or minor repairs.
The requirement for the pet bond to be lodged with the bond administrator also brings it in line with standard bond handling processes, adding transparency and consistency.
What does this mean for landlords?
For landlords, these changes offer increased financial protection and greater flexibility when managing pet-related risks in your investment property. However, they also reinforce the importance of thorough property condition reports, clear documentation, and regular inspections to support any future bond claims.
Working with an experienced property manager can help ensure pet agreements are correctly structured, bonds are properly handled, and any damage is accurately documented.
Unclaimed Bonds for Deceased Tenants
Phase 3 introduces a new process for managing bonds of deceased tenants where no formal estate (such as a will or an authorised representative) is in place.
If a tenant passes away and no claim has been made for the bond, the bond will be considered unclaimed after six months from the tenancy’s end. Unclaimed bonds, which are not in dispute, can be released to the next of kin or the person who paid the tenant’s funeral expenses.
What does this mean for landlords?
For landlords, these changes help provide greater clarity and direction when dealing with deceased estates, reducing uncertainty around unclaimed bonds. However, it remains essential to ensure all tenancy records, communication, and documentation are accurate and up to date in case any questions or claims arise.
In summary, Phase 3 of WA rental reforms (from March 28, 2026) introduces updates to bond releases, pet bonds, and the handling of unclaimed bonds.
• Faster, simplified bond release process with Commissioner determinations for disputes
• Pet bond increased to $350, from $260
• New rules for handling unclaimed bonds of deceased tenants
For landlords, these changes make professional property management more important than ever. With stricter timeframes, increased compliance requirements, and a greater need for accurate documentation, an experienced property manager can help ensure your rental property stays compliant while protecting your investment. From managing bond claims and disputes to maintaining detailed inspection reports and tenancy records, property managers play a critical role in navigating the new rental laws with confidence.
If you’re unsure how these changes may impact your property, or want to ensure your processes are aligned with the new requirements, contact us at Real Property WA.
