Vacating, done the right way
Planning to move out? This page covers everything you need to know to end your tenancy correctly and receive your bond back promptly.
Talk to Us First, before making any arrangements
The vacating process has specific legal requirements depending on your lease type. Contact us before giving notice or making any moving arrangements. Getting the process right from the start protects your bond and avoids unnecessary liability.
How to Vacate, step by step
Contact Us Before You Do Anything
Call or email us to discuss your situation. The correct notice period and process depends on whether you are on a fixed term or periodic agreement. Do not give formal notice until you know the right process for your specific lease.
Give Written Notice
For a periodic (month-to-month) tenancy, you must give at least 28 days written notice. For a fixed term tenancy, contact us to confirm the correct requirements. Notice must be in writing and clearly state your intended vacate date.
Return the Property to the Required Standard
Under s 52 of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997, you must leave the property reasonably clean and in the same condition as when you moved in, taking into account fair wear and tear. Use the checklist below as your guide.
Final Inspection and Key Return
We will conduct a thorough outgoing inspection comparing the property against the original ingoing condition report. All keys, remotes and access devices must be returned on or before your vacate date. Retaining keys past that date may extend your rent liability.
Bond Return
If the property is returned in the required condition, your bond is released promptly through the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA). If there are any agreed deductions we will discuss these with you before making any claim. Disputed bond matters are resolved through RDRV (Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria).
Before You Leave, a practical guide
Cleaning
- All rooms cleaned thoroughly including skirting boards and light fittings
- Oven, cooktop, rangehood and exhaust fan cleaned inside and out
- Bathrooms and toilets scrubbed and free of mould
- Windows, tracks and flyscreens cleaned inside and out
- Carpets professionally steam cleaned where carpeted
- All rubbish removed and bins emptied
- Cupboards, drawers and wardrobes cleaned inside
Property and Keys
- All keys, remotes and access devices returned
- Walls free of marks, holes and damage
- Garden mowed, edged and weeded
- All rental provider supplied items left at the property
- Forwarding address provided for mail
- Utilities redirected or cancelled from your vacate date
- Pet-related damage repaired and areas cleaned
Contact Us First, we will make it straightforward
We will walk you through the right process for your tenancy.
Other Renterresources
Renter Welcome
Your starting point for everything related to your tenancy.
Learn more → RepairsMaintenance and Repairs
How to report an issue and what to expect from the repair process.
Learn more → InspectionsRoutine Inspections
What to expect and how to prepare for your routine inspection.
Learn more → TipsPointers
Helpful tips for a smooth tenancy from move-in to move-out.
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