Yes, the bond can be increased, and this most commonly occurs when the rent increases.
Tips
A new and updated condition report may be required.
State or Territory Requirements
NSW
No, the landlord cannot ask for additional amounts of rental bond if the bond was paid under a residential tenancy agreement and one or more of the tenants continue to occupy the property.
QLD
The tenant may need to increase the bond if: the rent increases and the landlord or agent gives notice to the tenant to increase the bond. This must be done after a certain amount of time (see Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Regulation 2009)
VIC
It is generally understood that the rental bond cannot be increased by the landlord if the weekly rent is not more than $350.
ACT
It is not referred to in the legislation. It is generally understood that the rental bond cannot be increased by the landlord.
SA
If at least two years have passed since a bond was given or last increased, the landlord can increase the bond. By written notice, the landlord can increase the bond by a specified additional amount, within a specified period (which must be at least
60 days from the date of the notice), but not so that the total amount of the bond exceeds the relevant limit. *See ‘How much is a bond?’.
WA
Where the rent has been increased, the amount of the security bond can also be increased (within the confined limits) by the landlord or agent by notice in writing to the tenant specifying the amount of the increase and the day on which it is payable. This must be at least 60 days after the day the notice was given and at least 6 months after the start date of the tenancy, or, after the security deposit was last increased.
TAS
It is not referred to in the legislation. It is generally understood that the rental bond cannot be increased by the landlord.
NT
If 2 years have passed after a security deposit was given or increased and rent has been increased, the landlord may by written notice require the tenant to pay a security deposit which will not total an amount of more than 4 weeks of the increased rent (including the initial security deposit).
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These legal guides provide a brief summary and introduction of the laws and regulations affecting renting. They do not cover all cases and might not apply to your specific rental property situation. It is important that you use this information as a guide only and seek independent Legal Advice or consult the Relevant Legislation. Snug does not accept any liability that may arise from the use of this information.