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Fair Wear and Tear: What a Landlord Can't Take From Your Bond (NZ)
Normal wear from everyday living can't be charged. See what can't be deducted and dispute it for free.
1. Your bond
2. Why you disagree
✉️ 3. Your letter
🧭 Getting your bond back
- Best: you and the landlord sign the bond refund form together and send it to Tenancy Services (online or by post).
- If the landlord won't sign, you can send the form signed only by you. Tenancy Services contacts the landlord, who has 10 working days to dispute it at the Tenancy Tribunal. If they don't, the bond is paid to you.
- Never sign a refund form with an amount you don't agree with.
- Keep your photos, the inspection report and rent records for the Tribunal.
Rules last checked: October 2026. General information, not legal advice. 🔒 Everything stays on your device.
Questions people ask
What can a landlord take out of my bond in NZ?+
Only rent you owe, the cost of damage you caused carelessly or on purpose, and cleaning or rubbish removal if you didn't leave the property reasonably clean. Fair wear and tear can't be deducted.
What if my landlord won't sign the bond refund form?+
Send the form to Tenancy Services signed only by you. They'll contact the landlord, who has 10 working days to apply to the Tenancy Tribunal. If they don't, the bond is paid to you.
How much bond can a landlord ask for?+
No more than 4 weeks' rent. It must be lodged with Tenancy Services within 23 working days.
How much does the Tenancy Tribunal cost?+
The application fee is small (around $20), and you don't need a lawyer. Many cases are settled at free mediation first.