Tips to Getting Your Bond Back at the End of Your Lease

One of the areas that can cause challenges when renting is the end of the tenancy. It can be a stressful time, but following these tips will help ensure you get your full bond returned.

Review your condition report

At the start of your tenancy, you should have completed an ingoing condition report. This document is your reference point for the expected condition of the property when you leave. Review it carefully and address any items that have changed beyond normal wear and tear during your tenancy.

Clean thoroughly

The property should be returned in the same level of cleanliness as when you moved in. Pay special attention to kitchens, bathrooms, ovens, rangehoods, carpets and windows. Consider hiring a professional cleaner to ensure a thorough job — the cost is usually far less than any cleaning deductions from your bond.

Fix any damage

Address any damage you have caused during the tenancy. Fill nail holes, touch up paint marks, replace broken fixtures and repair any other damage. It is usually cheaper to fix these issues yourself than to have the landlord arrange repairs and deduct the cost from your bond.

Maintain the garden

If the property has a garden, ensure it is mowed, edged and tidy before the final inspection. Overgrown gardens are a common reason for bond deductions. If garden maintenance was your responsibility during the tenancy, make sure it is in at least the same condition as when you moved in.

Attend the final inspection

Being present at the final inspection gives you the opportunity to address any concerns on the spot and discuss any items the property manager identifies. It also allows you to point out pre-existing issues documented in your condition report if they are raised during the inspection.