Moving Out Checklist: Ensuring a Smooth Transition in Australia
Moving out of a rental property can be a daunting process. It's more than just packing your belongings; it involves fulfilling your obligations as a tenant to ensure a smooth handover and, most importantly, getting your bond back. This comprehensive checklist will guide you through each step, helping you avoid common pitfalls and ensure a stress-free move.
1. Giving Proper Notice
Providing adequate notice is the first and arguably most crucial step in the moving-out process. Failing to do so can lead to financial penalties and complications with your bond.
Understanding Your Lease Agreement
Your lease agreement outlines the specific notice period required. In Australia, this typically ranges from 14 to 30 days for periodic (month-to-month) leases and often requires notice to coincide with the end of a fixed-term lease. Review your agreement carefully to understand your obligations. If you're unsure, learn more about Flats and how we can help you understand your rental agreement.
Serving the Notice
Written Notice: Always provide your notice in writing, whether it's an email or a formal letter. This creates a record of your communication.
Content of the Notice: Include the date, your name(s), the property address, the date you intend to vacate, and your forwarding address for bond refunds and future correspondence.
Delivery Method: Check your lease agreement for preferred methods of delivery. Registered post is a reliable option, as it provides proof of delivery. Email is also acceptable in many cases, but confirm with your property manager.
Record Keeping: Keep a copy of the notice and any confirmation of receipt. This documentation can be invaluable if disputes arise.
Breaking the Lease
Breaking a fixed-term lease can be costly. You may be responsible for covering the rent until a new tenant is found, as well as advertising costs and potentially other fees. Discuss your situation with your property manager or landlord to explore options like finding a replacement tenant yourself. It's always best to communicate openly and honestly to minimise potential financial repercussions.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Assuming that a verbal agreement with the landlord is sufficient notice. Always put it in writing!
2. Cleaning the Property Thoroughly
Leaving the property in a clean and well-maintained condition is paramount to securing your bond refund. Aim to return the property to the same state it was in at the start of your tenancy, allowing for fair wear and tear.
Creating a Cleaning Checklist
Based on your initial condition report (completed at the start of your tenancy), create a detailed cleaning checklist. If you don't have the original condition report, contact your property manager for a copy. If that's not possible, use the following as a guide:
Kitchen:
Clean oven, stovetop, and rangehood (including replacing filters if necessary).
Clean inside and outside of all cupboards and drawers.
Clean sink and taps, removing any limescale.
Clean dishwasher (including filter).
Clean refrigerator (if included in the lease).
Mop floors.
Bathrooms:
Clean shower, including grout and shower screen.
Clean toilet, inside and out.
Clean sink and vanity.
Clean mirrors.
Mop floors.
Bedrooms and Living Areas:
Dust all surfaces, including skirting boards and light fixtures.
Vacuum or mop floors.
Clean windows and window coverings (blinds or curtains).
Wipe down walls to remove marks.
General:
Remove all rubbish and personal belongings.
Clean balconies and outdoor areas.
Mow lawns and trim gardens (if applicable).
Ensure all light bulbs are working.
Professional Cleaning vs. DIY
Consider hiring professional cleaners, especially if the property is large or requires extensive cleaning. While it adds to the cost, it can save you time and effort and increase your chances of getting your full bond back. If you choose to clean yourself, be prepared to dedicate sufficient time and effort to achieve a professional standard.
Addressing Damages
Repair any damages beyond fair wear and tear. This might include patching holes in walls, replacing cracked tiles, or repairing damaged fixtures. Contact your property manager to discuss repairs and obtain approval before undertaking any work. Failure to address damages can result in deductions from your bond.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Neglecting small details like cleaning light fixtures or skirting boards. These seemingly minor issues can be easily overlooked but can impact the overall impression of cleanliness.
3. Conducting a Final Inspection
Before handing over the keys, conduct a final inspection of the property with your property manager or landlord. This is your opportunity to address any concerns and ensure you're both on the same page regarding the condition of the property.
Scheduling the Inspection
Arrange the final inspection well in advance of your move-out date. This allows time to rectify any issues identified during the inspection.
Preparing for the Inspection
Bring Your Condition Report: Have a copy of your initial condition report on hand to compare the current condition of the property.
Take Photos: Take photos of the property after cleaning, as evidence of its condition. This can be helpful if disputes arise later.
Be Present: Attend the inspection in person to discuss any concerns and negotiate potential deductions.
During the Inspection
Walk Through the Property: Systematically walk through the property with the property manager, comparing its current condition to the initial condition report.
Address Concerns: Discuss any areas of concern and negotiate potential solutions.
- Document Everything: Ensure all agreed-upon repairs or cleaning tasks are documented in writing.
Disagreements
If you disagree with the property manager's assessment of the property's condition, document your concerns in writing and attempt to reach a compromise. If you cannot reach an agreement, you can lodge a dispute with the relevant state or territory's tenancy tribunal. Flats aims to provide resources and information to help you navigate these situations. You can also check our services for further assistance.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Failing to attend the final inspection. Your presence allows you to address concerns directly and potentially avoid unnecessary deductions from your bond.
4. Returning the Keys
Returning the keys marks the official end of your tenancy. Ensure you return all keys, including any copies you may have made.
Handing Over the Keys
Return the keys to the designated location as agreed upon with your property manager. This may be the property management office, a lockbox, or directly to the landlord.
Obtaining a Receipt
Obtain a written receipt confirming the return of all keys. This receipt should include the date, time, and location of the key handover.
After-Hours Returns
If you're returning the keys after hours, ensure you have clear instructions from your property manager regarding the drop-off location and procedure. Consider taking a photo of the keys in the drop-off location as proof of return.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Failing to obtain a receipt for the returned keys. This receipt serves as proof that you have fulfilled your obligation to return the keys.
5. Claiming Your Bond Back
Once you've vacated the property and returned the keys, it's time to claim your bond refund. The process varies slightly depending on the state or territory, but generally involves completing a bond claim form.
Completing the Bond Claim Form
Obtain a bond claim form from your state or territory's relevant authority (e.g., Fair Trading, Consumer Affairs). Complete the form accurately, including your bank account details for the refund.
Obtaining Signatures
The bond claim form typically requires signatures from both the tenant and the landlord or property manager. If both parties agree on the bond refund amount, the process is straightforward.
Lodging the Claim
Lodge the completed bond claim form with the relevant authority. You can usually do this online, by mail, or in person.
Bond Disputes
If you disagree with the proposed bond deductions, you can lodge a dispute with the relevant authority. You'll need to provide evidence to support your claim, such as photos, condition reports, and receipts. The authority will then investigate the dispute and make a determination. Understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding bond disputes is crucial. You may find answers to frequently asked questions on our website.
Timeframes
The timeframe for processing bond refunds varies depending on the state or territory and the complexity of the claim. Generally, you can expect to receive your refund within 14 to 30 days of lodging the claim.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Delaying the bond claim process. The sooner you lodge your claim, the sooner you'll receive your refund. Also, ensure you provide accurate bank account details to avoid delays in processing your refund.
By following this comprehensive checklist, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free move-out experience and maximise your chances of receiving your full bond refund. Remember to communicate openly with your property manager or landlord throughout the process and seek advice if you're unsure about any aspect of your tenancy agreement.