12 October 2022
We know that moving house can be a stressful time, so we have put together a simple checklist for vacating a rental property, leaving it the way you found it and ultimately receiving your full bond back.
Subject to the condition of the property at the commencement of your tenancy you should ensure:
- The property is left in a very clean and tidy condition throughout with any stains removed from the carpets.
- All cupboards, shelves, drawers, and benches are cleaned inside and outside.
- Walls and doors are cleaned, and all marks removed.
- The stove, grill, oven, and exhaust fans are spotlessly clean.
- Windows, window tracks and sills are cleaned inside and, where possible, outside.
- Any furniture, curtains or other items included with the property are returned to their original positions.
- Venetian blinds are cleaned, and curtains are washed.
- All garbage, including any bottles and general rubbish, are removed from the premises.
- The garage and/or storeroom are cleaned out and are free of cobwebs and grease marks are removed from the car space/ garage floor.
- Bathrooms are thoroughly cleaned with all mould and soap scum removed from tiles and grouting. Ceiling mould must also be removed.
- Toilets are cleaned inside and out and the bathroom and/or toilet floors are mopped.
- Lawns are cut and edges trimmed, and gardens weeded (this applies to townhouses and houses).
A few notes on:
Giving Notice to Vacate
If you have signed a lease, you need to remain as a tenant and pay rent until the lease expires. If you need to move out earlier, you must contact your Property Manager to discuss the penalties. The required notice of 21 days must be given to your Property Manager in writing – emailed, posted or handed in at our office – when you intend to vacate the premises after your lease term has expired.
Prior to your lease expiry date, you must provide a minimum 14 days notice. Rent will be charged in lieu of notice. For Cunninghams clients, premises will be deemed vacant only when the keys have been returned to our office before 5pm on the day of leaving. Late return of keys will result in rent being charged to the date keys are then received.
Refund of Bond
A refund of the bond will be made only after our team have inspected the property (please allow sufficient time for this) and find that the property has been cleaned and left in the condition indicated in the agreed Condition Report (with an allowance for normal wear and tear). The Department of Fair Trading can deposit straight into your bank account or post a cheque to your new address once a claim has been lodged and finalised by both parties.
We hope this helps any current or future tenants with their next move.
View our available rentals here.
