Premier Capital Properties & Zhao and Anor (Residential Tenancies)

Premier Capital Properties, the lessor, filed a claim in the Residential Tenancies Tribunal of Victoria against Zhao and Anor, the tenants, to recover outstanding rent. The tenants, who had vacated the premises, contested the claim. The tribunal was tasked with determining whether the tenants were liable to pay the outstanding rent and, if so, how the bond should be distributed between the parties. The central issue was whether the tenants had a valid defense to the claim or if the lessor was entitled to the full amount claimed. The tribunal examined the evidence provided by both parties regarding the rent arrears and the state of the property upon vacating. It concluded that the tenants owed the lessor $337.50 in unpaid rent. The tribunal further determined that the bond held by the Office of Rental Bond should be used to first cover the lessor's claim, with any remaining funds to be paid to the tenants. This decision was based on the assessment of the property's condition and the evidence presented regarding the state of repairs. The tribunal ordered the tenants to pay the lessor $337.50 and directed the Office of Rental Bond to distribute the bond funds accordingly, paying the lessor first and the tenants any remaining balance.