Michael John Eastwood is accused of refusing to leave his unit, telling police his door would ‘‘blow’’ if they knocked too hard.

A lengthy siege ensued, and when officers finally gained entry to the home, Eastwood, 44, and co-accused Rebecca Lee Donaldson, 34, set fire to several pieces of furniture, facts before Wollongong Local Court said.

Police claim the siege, which caused extensive damage to property and a Department of Housing unit, cost more than $40,000 in resources, including negotiators and emergency service teams.

It is alleged Eastwood first warned police his door was wired about 5pm on November 23 when they arrived in response to claims he had assaulted his neighbour.

Police tried to negotiate, but fearing his threats were genuine, they evacuated the building and started a siege operation, the court heard.

Negotiations continued with the duo, but they refused to leave as Eastwood allegedly threatened officers, stating: ‘‘I’ve got a 12-gauge shotgun’’ and ‘‘the door is wired with a 120-volt battery’’.

It is alleged officers forced their way through the front door about 4am and found the pair locked inside a bedroom, which had been barricaded with a mattress, wardrobe and TV.

When officers tried to enter the room, the pair allegedly set the furniture alight.

Police managed to get inside and arrested Eastwood and then they allegedly found Donaldson hiding in a cupboard.

The couple were charged with aggravated breaking and entering, giving false information, destroying property, damaging property by fire and resisting police.

Eastwood was also charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Opposing Eastwood’s bail yesterday, Crown solicitor Jackie Azad cited the seriousness of the charges, the strength of the prosecution case and the likelihood of a custodial sentence if the man was convicted.

Defence solicitor Gary Leo told the court Eastwood had been stabbed in jail, suffering life-threatening injuries, and had been placed in 24-hour lockdown.

Mr Leo said his client could report to police, had employment available and could offer a surety.

Magistrate Michael Stoddart refused bail and adjourned both matters to March 7.