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A Western Australian landlord has been fined over $1,000 after failing to lodge a tenancy bond as required by law.
A Scarborough woman has pleaded guilty to breaching the Western Australian Residential Tenancies Act, after failing to register a bond with the state administrator within the legal 14 days of receipt.
Back in January 2024, the private landlord received a $3,500 bond and $1,750 in upfront rent directly into their account.
The bond, required to be lodged with the Bond Administrator by 10 February 2024, was never submitted.
The woman who pleaded guilty to breaching the Residential Tenancies Act was fined $1,200 by the Perth Magistrates Court with an additional $300.50 in costs.
Despite being found guilty, the court said the landlord demonstrated remorse, issuing a spent conviction, which would better serve the community.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection, Trish Blake, said that all landlords have to understand and follow their legal obligations, with the law set to protect tenants.
“The lodgment process is straightforward – there’s no excuse for non-compliance. Failure to follow the rules can lead to legal action, reputational harm, and potential disciplinary measures.”
“Whether you’re a private landlord or a licensed agent, the law is clear – tenancy bonds must be lodged promptly and no later than 14 days after receiving them,” Blake concluded.
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