Tips for Getting Your Bond Back
- Matt Tate
- Nov 7
- 2 min read
At the end of every tenancy, the bond becomes one of the most important topics for tenants. It is money you have already paid, and getting it back in full depends on how you leave the property.
With the right preparation, there should be no surprises. These tips for getting your bond back are based on what property managers look for and what the Residential Tenancies Act allows.
Understand the Final Inspection
When your tenancy ends, the property will be checked to confirm it is in the same condition it was in when you moved in, allowing for fair wear and tear. This is based on the entry inspection report, so it is important to have a copy and use it as a checklist when preparing to leave.
A good property manager will also give you clear guidance so you know what to expect before your move out date.
Clean Thoroughly
One of the most common reasons for bond deductions is cleaning. Even if you have lived in the property for years, it needs to be returned in reasonably clean condition.
This means:
Kitchen and bathroom cleaned thoroughly
Oven and rangehood degreased
Floors swept and mopped
Carpet vacuumed or professionally cleaned if required
Walls spot cleaned and marks removed
Rubbish removed from all bins and outside areas
It is worth taking your time here, or hiring professional cleaners if you are unsure what standard is expected.
Repair Minor Damage
Small things can add up. If you have left picture hooks, wall marks, or minor scuffs, it is often better to fix these yourself before moving out.
Check light bulbs, tighten loose fittings, and tidy the garden or lawns if that was part of your responsibility. If you are not sure what is expected, ask your property manager for clarification.
Return All Keys and Remotes
Another easy thing to overlook. Make sure all keys, swipe cards, garage remotes, and access fobs are returned on time. If anything is missing, it may be deducted from your bond.
Communicate Clearly
Let your property manager know if anything has gone wrong or needs attention. Being upfront helps avoid miscommunication and gives everyone the best chance to sort things out fairly.
If you are unsure about something, whether it is cleaning, damage, or something else, just ask. It is better to check than to assume.
Final Thoughts
These tips for getting your bond back can help make the end of your tenancy smooth and stress free. It comes down to leaving the property in good condition, communicating clearly, and returning everything that was issued at the start.
At RENTit, the goal is to make the end of tenancy process fair and easy to understand. Tenants are given support, clear expectations, and the chance to fix things before any deductions are made.
A little preparation can go a long way — and often makes the difference between a delayed bond and getting it back in full.
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