Despite cities and regions around Australia regularly shifting into and out of lockdowns as we head towards 80% vaccinations, tenants are still moving in and out of rental properties as tenancy agreements end or circumstances change.

Also, in times like this, every penny count, so it’s vital that you take every step possible to recoup your entire bond when exiting a rental property.

To ensure you can recoup your bond in full, start by reading through the entry report you received from your Property Manager at the start of the tenancy. This report will show you the property’s condition when you moved in and what patch-ups might be required. For example, is there some damage you’ve caused to the venetian blinds, or some stains on carpets that weren’t there before you moved in? Perhaps there are some nasty scuff marks on the skirting boards, a broken window, or holes in the walls? These blemishes and repairs must be attended to at your expense to ensure you get the bond repaid in full. 

This level of rigour must also be applied to external areas, meaning pools should be glistening and gardens and lawns presented in apple-pie order.

It’s also crucial that you remove all your belongings from the property before the Property Manager conducts their exit inspection. Likewise, if you leave a rubbish heap on the curbside, don’t expect to get your bond back until the flotsam and jetsam is gone. The good news here is that many councils offer several free pickups a year. 

As part of your exit strategy, if you have the budget for it, I’d be inclined to commission the assistance of a cleaner to help return the property to the condition you initially found it in. Typically, your Raine & Horne Property Manager can recommend a cleaner. Better still, going with the Property Manager’s preferred cleaner will give you a much better chance of claiming a bond refund in full. Using a cleaner is also one less job for you when moving house.

Also, be sure to return all the keys and other gadgets such as garage door remotes to the property manager on time, and pay any outstanding rent or invoices. If you take all these steps, there should be no problem in reclaiming your bond in full.

If you need more advice about preparing your home for a final inspection, be sure to talk to your Raine & Horne Property Manager.