Client caused or contributed to the need

Before deciding whether or not to grant a Bond Grant, MSD may consider the extent the client has caused or contributed to their need for bond.

Examples of when a client may be considered to have caused or contributed to the need for a Bond Grant include when:

• they have recently caused or contributed to intentional or reckless damage to their previous accommodation, including damage that may have resulted in termination of their tenancy(s)
• they have a pattern of not meeting their obligations for previous accommodation, e.g. non-payment of rent, leaving without notice, additional occupants not approved by landlord etc

Each client's situation must be assessed on their individual circumstances.

Note if the client has already received a Bond Grant for the tenancy, MSD cannot issue a second Bond Grant for a Pet Bond.

If the client has chosen to get a pet and now needs a Pet Bond, this may be considered an avoidable cost rather than one necessary to obtain or retain housing. When assessing the Bond Grant, MSD will need to consider whether the client has caused or contributed to the need for an additional bond.