When you move out of your rental, it’s important to take steps to guarantee that your bond is returned. This can prevent you from losing money to your landlord.
One of the best ways to do this is to conduct a thorough end-of-lease clean. Landlords are often hesitant to return security deposits if a property looks shabby or isn’t clean. Here are 7 things you can do to take control of your bond refund and have it returned when vacating.
- Move with a removal Company
Damages to the home frequently occur when you move in and out of your property shifting furniture by yourself can elevate that risk and lead onto a higher chance of not receiving your bond back if damages occur during the move. In Melbourne, property agents are particularly stringent on the state of the house compared to when it was first handed over to you. By hiring furniture removalists in Melbourne to help with your move out of the property, you can rely on the moving company to take on the risk as well as an increasing your chance of getting your bond returned.
- Clean Your Home Thoroughly
Cleaning your home thoroughly is one of the most important things you can do to ensure that your bond is returned when moving out. This can take a lot of time and effort, so it’s crucial to do it correctly.
You can do this by using a checklist to ensure that you get all areas of the property cleaned and fixed up in order to meet your landlord’s requirements.
By following these tips, you can maximise your chances of getting your bond back and avoid costly deductions. This will show your landlord or real estate agent that you took care of your tenancy and the property in a thorough way.
- Repair Any Damage
Make sure to repair any plaster damage and holes in the walls from picture frames, ensure that the walls are at least in the same condition as they were when you first moved in. Damages are the first thing that the landlord or real estate agent will look for upon the final inspection. So, make sure any minor damage to the property is fixed apart from the general wear and tear of an aging property.
- Check the Inventory Checklist
If you’re planning on renting out your property, it’s essential to check that your landlord has provided a check-in and check-out inventory. This can be useful for resolving disputes at the end of the tenancy about whether the property has been damage or not.
This should include a detailed record of the contents of each room, including the date of purchase and make and model numbers for any items. This information is valuable in the event of a property loss, making it easier to file an insurance claim.
- Take Photos of Your Home Before and After
The bond money you received when you moved into your rental home is typically refunded to you upon the end of your tenancy. Usually, this will be done via a cheque or direct deposit to your bank account after the property is no longer occupied.
Ensure your bond is returned when moving out by documenting the condition of your apartment or house you are moving out of. Not only will it help you avoid future issues with your landlord, but it will also be proof that you took care of the property and did not cause any damage while you were living there.
- Pay Outstanding Rent and Bills
When it comes to your rental bond, it’s crucial that you do everything possible to ensure it is returned when moving out. This includes making all payments on time. The landlord cannot use your holding bond as payment for the last month of rent so be sure to pay off your last months rent as your bond needs to be returned as a bond refund.
You should also keep track of your rent payments and any bills you owe. This will help you avoid any misunderstandings with your landlord about where the money goes and whether or not you’ve been paid in full.
If you’re behind with your rent, it’s important to work with your landlord to come up with a repayment plan that you can afford. Otherwise, you could lose your house or even be taken to court.
- Return Your Keys On Time
One of the most important things you can do to ensure your bond is returned when moving out is to return your keys on time. Handing them over the day you move out is a legal requirement and will protect you against your landlord claiming that the house was not actually vacated at the time of moving out, which can result in your deposit being lost.
The best way to ensure you do this is to personally deliver your keys to the management office and get a receipt for it. This will provide you with the strongest possible evidence that you delivered the keys on time and can help you avoid any misunderstandings later on.
