Guide · updated November 2026

Charged for the carpet out of your bond?

Carpet is one of the most common bond deductions — and one of the most commonly overstated. Here's how to tell if the charge stands up.

Wear or damage?

Official guidance treats furniture indentations and traffic marks as fair wear and tear. Stains and burn marks are treated as damage. Worn carpet from daily use isn't something you can be charged for.

Check these before you agree to anything

  • Entry condition report: does it already mention stains, wear or marks on the carpet? Highlight every line.
  • Their evidence: in NSW, a claim made without your agreement must come with the condition report and quotes/invoices/receipts within 7 days. In Victoria, VCAT bond claims need evidence consistent with the entry report (from 13 Oct 2026).
  • Age of the carpet: if they want replacement, the claim should reflect how old and worn the carpet already was — not the cost of brand-new carpet.
  • Cleaning standard: cleaning can only be claimed back to the standard it was in when you moved in.

What to send

A short, item-by-item written reply works best: what you accept, what you don't and why, and what evidence you want to see. BondReply's reply pack writes this for you with your state's rules.

Official sources: Dealing with bond disputes (tenants) · Getting your bond back · Fair wear and tear vs damage · Rental Bonds Online — tenant login · NCAT — housing and property

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Common questions

Can my landlord charge me for new carpet?

They can claim for damage beyond fair wear and tear, but the amount should reflect the carpet's age and condition, and must be backed by evidence such as quotes or invoices.

Do I have to get the carpet professionally cleaned?

The general rule is to leave the property in the condition it was in at the start, apart from fair wear and tear. Check your lease and your state's rules on cleaning terms, and your entry condition report.