Moving out of a rental property

There are several things you don’t want to forget when moving out of your rental property.

Notifying your agent/landlord

Have a look in your contract and see how far in advance you should notify your real estate agent (or landlord). When sending your notice of vacation, make sure you have proof they’ve received it – either send by registered post or deliver in person and ask them to sign and date your copy of it. Here is a sample notice of intent to vacate – just fill in the blanks.

Disconnecting all the utilities

Electricity, water, gas, phone, paid TV should be disconnected, mail - redirected.

Cleaning upon vacating

Getting your bond back largely depends on the condition you leave the rental house in. Basically it should look exactly the same as when you moved in (well, except for some reasonable wear and tear). After moving all of your possessions out of the house, do not forget to clean:

Stove – including the inside, trays, door, and outside, clean exhaust fan covers too.
Windows, blinds, venetians and air vents need dusting and wiping
Cupboards – wipe inside and outside
Marks on walls and doors – wipe
Light fittings need dusting
Bathrooms, showers (including shower screens) and toilets
Floors needs mopping and carpets – vacuuming/steam cleaning
Lawns need mowing

Take pictures

If you can’t be there when the landlord/agent are inspecting the house, it’s a good idea to take pictures of every room in the house as a proof that you’ve left it spotless and deserve to get your full bond back.

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