Common Move Out Mistakes That Cost Tenants Their Bond

Nothing is more stressful than losing your security deposit because of dusty light fixtures and fittings or dirty bathroom floors. Between packing household belongings, updating their address, and completing necessary paperwork, tenants keep pushing property maintenance and exit cleaning tasks. They often leave it to the last moment.

When you rush through the most essential move out obligations, the chances of silly mistakes increase. Unfortunately, minor blunders could lead to hefty bond deductions, penalties, and awful conflicts due to rigorous cleanliness standards and a competitive rental market. Landlords in Victoria can sometimes be ruthless when inspecting a rental property.

Worry not! Here is a comprehensive guide to uncovering common move out mistakes that can lead to bond deductions. Make sure you avoid them to ensure a seamless rental inspection. You can also prefer hiring end of lease cleaning Melbourne professionals for peace of mind.

Let’s Get Started.

1. What does 'Move Out' mean in Rental Terms?

It is the final rental phase when a renter moves out of a rented property at the end of a tenancy. The VIC tenancy laws clearly state that renters must prepare the property and return it in a tidy, habitable condition as it was at the start of the tenancy. However, normal wear and tear is acceptable.

This stage ensures that a rental property is almost vacant and ready for the next occupant. However, failing to meet the set standards or breaching the rental agreement leads to bond deductions or unnecessary disputes. They can deduct the bond to recover for damages and cleaning issues.

If you want to pass your final inspection, avoid common move out blunders as mentioned below:

2. Common Mistake: Failing to Understand Landlord’s Specific Requirements

This is one of the most common mistakes tenants make and end up losing their hard earned bond money. Landlords usually include specific cleaning clauses and end of lease cleaning obligations in the lease agreement. Most renters forget to check it and randomly spruce up the property.

For example, if a 'professional carpet cleaning' is specifically mentioned in your agreement’s cleaning clauses and you have already signed that document, you are legally bound to have your carpets professionally cleaned when moving out of your lease. Failing to do so can cause bond deductions.

So, establish a clear communication with your landlord and always read your rental agreement, especially related to end of lease cleaning requirements.

3. Neglecting Property Damage Beyond Fair Wear & Tear is Another Blunder

Passing the final property inspection is more than dusting, vacuuming and mopping surfaces. Many tenants neglect major damages, leading to disputes and bond deductions.

Of course, landlords can't claim your bond for fair wear and tear, but damage caused by negligence or an intentional act needs instant attention. Make sure you inspect the entire property to check for potential damages, such as:

• Cut marks, burning holes and stains on carpets
• Poorly scratched wooden floors
• Torn curtains
• Damaged windows and doors
• Damage to the wall due to adhesive posters

Make sure you request your landlord's permission for repair and maintenancebefore the final rental inspection. Also, understand what counts as fair wear and tear in Victoria's tenancy laws and refer to your entry condition report as you are not liable for pre existing damage.

4. Overlooking Hard to Reach Spots During the Cleaning Process

Substandard or only surface level cleaning is one of the top reasons for bond deductions in Victoria. Renters often focus on dusting or scrubbing visible areas and forget hidden or hard to reach spots that landlords thoroughly check. Make sure you pay attention to these areas:

• Air vents
• Ceiling fan blades, light fixtures and fittings
• Cabinets and cupboards, inside and outside
• Window tracks and sills
• Blinds
• Exhaust fans and Rangehood filters
• Sink and garbage disposal
• Shower grout
• Behind a toilet seat
• Skirting boards
• Underneath heavy appliances

Professionally trained end of lease cleaning Melbourne experts follow a pre-approved cleaning checklist and clean top to bottom, ensuring every area isn't left untreated.

5. Leaving Kitchen Appliances Filthy

Another common mistake tenants make is neglecting grease laden oven, microwave, BBQ and refrigerator when sprucing up the entire kitchen. Since a dirty oven or greasy oven trays are breeding grounds for lethal germs and foodborne illnesses, landlords pay special attention to these appliances during an inspection.

Make sure you deep clean inside and outside your much loved cooking appliances. Remove trays, racks, and other detachable parts, and clean every nook and cranny inside your oven, microwave, and fridge using the right cleaning agents.

Tip: Use all natural cleaning products, such as baking soda, warm water, vinegar to dislodge caked on grime and grease.

6. Not Paying Attention to Outdoor Areas

Many tenants deep clean inside the property, but lose their bond due to dirt laden outdoor area. According to the tenancy agreement, you must clean the exterior of the rental property, including the patio area and garage walls, and remove any dry leaves from your lawn or yard. A clean and well maintained exterior can enhance the overall curb appeal of your property, leaving a lasting impression on your landlord.

So, make sure you sweep, pressure wash and clear all personal items when moving out of your rental home.

7. Outstanding Rent or Bills

A rental agreement clearly states that the renter is obligated to pay rent on time throughout the lease. They are also liable for utility bills (electricity, water and gas). Unfortunately, unpaid rent or outstanding bills at the time of moving out may result in bond deductions.

Landlords have the right to charge additional fees for late rent payments, which can lead to unnecessary disputes. So, clear all your payments before the final rental inspection for a seamless experience.

8. Not Returning the Keys to the Landlord

Many tenants forget to return all the keys provided at the start of a tenancy. If you lose a single key, it is a sign of a security threat. Plus, returning keys late also leads to extra rent charges as new occupants can't access the property until the current renter returns all keys.

This includes all duplicate keys, garage remote controls, mailbox keys, etc.

9. Leaving Bulk or Large Items Behind

Leaving mattresses, damaged furniture, old boxes and rubbish in the lawn or backyard is the biggest blunder. Landlords may deduct your bond to make payments for hiring removal or waste disposal services. Disposal fees in Melbourne are comparatively high, leading to significant bond deductions.

It is better to clean your property, empty it, donate your unwanted personal items, and dispose of waste responsibly.

10. No Taking Assistance from Cleaners When Required

This is one of the biggest mistakes tenants make when moving out. Of course, hiring experts may take a toll on your pocket, but doing it yourself also risks losing your bond or damaging delicate surfaces due to a lack of proper cleaning techniques.

Plus, booking a guaranteed end of lease cleaning Melbourne service gives peace of mind as they know the local real estate standards, cleaning obligations, etc. They come equipped with all the necessary supplies to dislodge stubborn stains and grime with perfection. Ensure you understand their estimated bond cleaning costs, inclusions and exclusions, and other aspects before making the final decision.

Infographic: What are the Common Reasons for Bond Deductions?

Wrapping Up

There is no denying that committing to move out mistakes are unavoidable. Hopefully, this guide has helped you avoid common pitfalls when preparing your rental property for the final inspection to prevent unnecessary bond deductions. Ensure you know your rights and stay optimistic throughout the process.