Hi All

I really need help/clarity on this following issue:

1) I rented a townhouse from an agent.
2) I then cancelled the lease in accordance with the CPA act by giving the relevant notice.
3) According to the CPA act - A reasonable penalty may be charged which I understand and you can no longer be held liable until the end of the lease period.
4) This penalty can only be calculated once a replacement tenant has been found.
5) A replacement tenant was found and this tenant paid all the deposits etc

Based on all this they have not returned my deposit - There was no damage to the property what so ever.

They are holding a months rental, damage deposit and services deposit.

They have stated that the damage deposit forms part of the penalty. The penalty charged is thus a months rental plus all the deposits I do not agree with this at all??? The agent is holding this money. I DONT SEE THIS A REASONABLE PENALTY IN TERMS OF THE CPA ACT.

Further to the above they want be pay a month's rental to the owner ? This cannot be right?

What is the purpose of the CPA act then as this is not reasonable at all.

Could someone please give me more clarity on this will greatly appreciate all the input.

Thanks