The Entry Condition Report is a crucial part of this process. Landlords and Tenants have made their comments and exchanged photos that were taken at the beginning of the lease.
The Bond Inspection is simply updating the Entry Condition and will include:
- Wear & tear
- Maintenance issues
- Any upgrades or maintenance that has occurred throughout the lease period
- Damages (accidental or negligence)
- Cleaning
- Light not working
- Items or rubbish left behind
The tenant must return the property in as near as possible condition to the Agreed Condition at the beginning of the tenancy. Fair Wear & Tear excepted of course. The definition of fair wear & tears is “The gradual deterioration of a property that occurs over time due to normal use”. It is different from damage caused by a tenant’s negligence, misuse or intentional actions. Dirt, grime, grease and damage is not considered wear & Tear.
The property must be handed back in a lettable condition for the next tenant. Any delays caused by a tenant not fulfilling this obligation could mean a loss of rent claim from the landlord.
End of Lease cleaning vs Routine cleaning
Throughout the lease the Landlords/Agent will complete Routine Inspections. These are walk through inspections to identify any obvious cleaning, damage, maintenance etc.
A bond Inspection is more thorough everything is opened and closed, tested to make sure it is clean, undamaged and working.
The agreed Condition Report together with the definition of Fair Wear & Tear should resolve any disputes at a Bond Inspection.
Moving house is a huge job, not to mention cleaning it back to a standard compliant with your obligations is another matter. If you have been regularly cleaning the property throughout your tenancy the job will be easier.
If you are capable of doing the cleaning yourself, you will need the proper equipment such as a ladder, vacuum, lots of rags and the correct products. Some tenants do what they can and then engage a professional to finish it off.
Does hiring a professional guarantee my Bond refund?
The simple answer to that question is no. When hiring a professional you are responsible for their workmanship, you should not pay them until you are satisfied, they have completed the cleaning to the required standard. Some of the labour-intensive areas to clean are ovens, rangehoods, exhaust fans, top of kitchen cupboards, toilets, shower screens & recesses, external windows, removing insects and dust from light fittings & venetian blinds. Some cleaners are now charging as much as $90 per hour.
Am I required to have the carpets professionally cleaned?
Yes, if you have had pets at the property. Also, if there are stains or wore sections in traffic areas.
Tenants usually give 2-3 weeks’ notice to end their agreement. The cleaning process should start as soon as the intention to vacate is served to the Agent/Landlord.
What are a Tenant’s obligations regarding external areas at the end of Lease?
The Entry Condition Report will outline all areas that will be inspected at the end of Lease.
A summary of these areas are as follows:
Garage/Carport
- Make sure all items are removed
- Make sure all the lights are working & points are clean
- Sweep floor & high pressure clean any grease or oil stains
- Ensure any remotes are working & keys are returned
- Check exterior cladding & repair any damage
Decks & Balconies
- Check lights & light fittings
- Check rails and balustrades for damage/safety
- Check walls and flooring
Laws & Gardens
- Remove weeds, grass & litter from the gardens and lawns
- Ensure edging is done
- Check equipment e.g. hoses, garden tools etc.
- Repair any damages e.g. holes, car tyre marks etc.
Exterior Lighting
- All globes working
Gates & Fencing
- Repair any damage caused
Gutters & Downpipes
- Ensure gutters have no twigs, leaves or litter and downpipes are undamaged
Clothesline
- Check for damage
Stairs & Steps
- Check for safety & damage, hose off any dirt or stains
Driveways & Paths
- Check for damage, hose off any dirt or stains. High pressure cleaning might be needed for those stubborn grease or oil stains
Garbage Bins
- Make sure they are empty & hosed out
Garden Sheds
- If applicable make sure you have taken everything & swept out
Under House
- Check under house for anything you once again tenants can hire a professional to assist with these external issues
Steve has over 37 years’ experience in Residential Property Management. Please reach out to Steve if you would like to have a chat about Bond Cleans or Bond Inspections.
0419 947 980
