Getting Your Bond Back - 101
Article by Ellen - ( Owner of Bespoke Realty WA )
When it's time to move out of a rental property, one of the biggest concerns tenants have is whether they'll get their full bond back. And rightly so, your bond is a significant amount of money, and it’s only fair that you should
have it returned if you’ve met your responsibilities as a tenant.
At Bespoke Realty WA, we want to help tenants have a smooth vacate process and ensure there are no surprises at the end of a lease. Over the years, I’ve seen the most common reasons why bonds are withheld, and more importantly, I know exactly how you can avoid them.
Here are my top tips to help you get your bond back in full.
Start Right: Complete Your Entry Condition Report Thoroughly
Getting your bond back actually starts the moment you move in.
Take the time to fill out your entry condition report carefully and accurately. This is your opportunity to document the property's condition when you take possession, every mark on the wall, every chip in the tile, every scratch on the floor. Take plenty of photos and attach them to your report.
This document will be your best protection when you move out. If there’s a dispute about damage or cleanliness, your entry report is the baseline we refer to.
If you don't fill it out thoroughly, it becomes harder to argue your case later.
Make sure you provide the correct amount of written notice when you decide to move out. The required notice period is outlined in your lease agreement, and failure to comply can create unnecessary complications (and possibly extra rent owed).
Give Proper Notice
Leave the Property Clean - “Really Clean”
This one’s non-negotiable. A common reason for bond deductions is cleaning. The property should be returned in the same condition it was in
when you moved in, minus fair wear and tear.
Pro tip:
If cleaning isn’t your strength, or you simply don’t have the time, it’s often worth hiring a professional vacate cleaner.
Make sure they understand real estate standards and provide a receipt.
Don't forget the areas that often get overlooked:
Oven and rangehood
Skirting boards and light fittings
Windows and tracks
Shower grout and bathroom fixtures
Outdoor areas including balconies, patios, and lawns
If you have Gardens - Don’t Forget to Tidy Them
If your lease includes maintaining the outdoor areas, be sure to mow, weed, and tidy up before vacating.
A messy garden can lead to charges for gardening services.
Fix any Minor Damage
Accidents happen, and we understand that. But things like wall scuffs, holes from picture hooks, or damaged blinds should be repaired before the final inspection.
If you’re unsure whether something counts as “fair wear and tear,” just ask your property manager, we’re happy to clarify so there’s no confusion.
Return All Keys, Remotes and Accessories
Every key, garage remote, and fob you were given at the start of the tenancy needs to be returned.
Missing items can delay the bond process and result in replacement charges.
This report is just as important as the one you filled out when you moved in. Take photos, be honest, and ensure your report
reflects the condition you’re leaving the property in.
Complete the Exit Report Thoroughly
Communicate With Your Property Manager
If there’s something you’re unsure about, whether it's damage, cleaning expectations, or timelines,just give us a call.
At Bespoke Realty WA, we’re here to help make vacating as stress-free as possible.
Whether you're preparing to vacate or looking for your next home, we’re here for you every step of the way.
At Bespoke Realty WA, we take pride in supporting both tenants and property owners with personalised, professional service.
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