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Are you renting in Australia? If so, you're no stranger to the cost of renting a property, including the rental bond.

Top tips for getting your rental bond back

Are you renting in Australia? If so, you're likely no stranger to the cost of renting a property, including the rental bond.
3 minute read
Are you renting in Australia? If so, you're no stranger to the cost of renting a property, including the rental bond.

But fear not; getting your rental bond back at the end of your tenancy doesn't have to be a nightmare. Here are some tips to help you increase your chances of receiving your full bond back and avoiding any unnecessary headaches.

Don't sign blindly.

When it comes to rental bonds, ignorance is rarely bliss. To avoid surprises and disputes, read the fine print and understand your lease agreement before you sign on the dotted line. Remember you also have responsibilities for cleaning, maintenance, and repairs, so don't let the fine print catch you off guard! Make sure you thoroughly review your lease agreement and understand all the terms before making a firm commitment.

Document your property's condition.

Remember to document the condition of your rental property before moving in. Take photos or videos of any existing damages or defects so that you can avoid any potential disagreements with your landlord down the line. Keeping this visual evidence safe and sound will help you get your full bond back at the end of your tenancy.

Maintain the property like it's your own.

During your tenancy, keep your rental property in tip-top shape by staying on top of regular cleaning, reporting maintenance issues promptly, and avoid any mishaps that could damage the property. By leaving the property in the same condition as when you moved in, you'll be more likely to pocket your entire rental bond.

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Don't skip your final inspection.

Think of your final inspection as a breakup conversation - it's not fun, but it is necessary. Take the chance to walk through the property with your landlord or property manager and address any issues or concerns you may have. This way, you can avoid misunderstandings and make a clean breakup with your rental property.

Repair any damages.

Before you move out, remember to repair any damages in the rental property. Fix any holes in the walls, replace broken fixtures, and clean up any stains or marks on the walls or floors. The property should look as good as new before your landlord or property manager arrives for the final inspection. Remember, a little elbow grease now can save you from losing your rental bond later.

Provide evidence of any repairs.

Prove your worth as a tenant by providing evidence of any repairs you've made before the final inspection. Snap some before-and-after photos, keep receipts for materials or labour, or even write a comprehensive statement on your work. This way, you'll show your landlord or property manager that you're a responsible and accountable tenant and avoid any issues or misunderstandings regarding the repairs.

Return your keys and remote controls.

When your tenancy ends, ensure you return all keys and remote controls to your property manager or landlord. Not returning them on time could lead to some serious bond deduction woes. So, channel your inner detective and hunt down every key and remote before you bid farewell to your rental property.

Don't leave any bills behind!

No one wants a ghost bill to haunt them after leaving a rental. Ensure you've paid all outstanding bills, including rent and utilities, before the end of your tenancy. This way, you can avoid losing your rental bond due to unresolved debts. Stay ahead of the game and pay those bills as soon as they're due rather than procrastinating until the last minute.

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Give notice of your intention to vacate.

Giving notice of your intention to vacate is not just a formality; it's a smart move. Providing ample notice shows that you are a responsible tenant who understands and respects the lease agreement. A written notice ensures you won't be charged for any unexpected fees, like additional rent charges beyond your tenancy's end date.

Follow up on your rental bond.

Ensure a speedy rental bond return by following up with the relevant government bond authority after your tenancy ends. Feel free to use the dispute resolution process provided by the state or territory authority if there are any issues with the bond. Remember, time is money, and you don't want your hard-earned cash to linger in limbo.

Getting your full rental bond back at the end of your tenancy doesn't have to be a nightmare. Following these tips can increase your chances of receiving your full bond back and avoid unnecessary headaches. From reading the fine print and documenting the property's condition to repairing damages and returning keys and remote controls, these steps can save you time, money, and stress.

Remember, being a responsible tenant who understands and respects the lease agreement can go a long way in securing your rental bond. So, stay proactive and don't hesitate to follow up with the relevant government bond authority to ensure a speedy return. With these tips, you can make a clean breakup with your rental property and move on to your next adventure with peace of mind.

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