Why are share-house ads asking for 6 weeks bond and 4 weeks rent upfront?

Anonymous Confused Magpie · 16 May 2026

Looking at Flatmates.com.au and a lot of listings want what feels like a deposit on a small car. 6 weeks bond + 4 weeks rent + $200 "key fee" = $4,800 before I've unpacked. Is this normal in Sydney/Melbourne right now or am I being targeted because my profile says "new to Australia"? Asking because I'd rather know than feel paranoid.

3 replies

Anonymous Realistic Goanna · 16 May 2026
4+4 (4 wks rent + 4 wks bond) is the legal standard most states. 6 weeks bond is illegal in VIC and NSW for rent under a threshold. "Key fee" is sketchy. Walk.
Anonymous Calm Pademelon · 16 May 2026
You're not being targeted personally, it's just the market right now. Plenty of legit places ask the standard 4+4 — keep looking, they exist.
Anonymous Cautious Rosella · 16 May 2026
Anything labelled "no inspection, transfer to secure" — run. Real share houses do inspections.

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