How to Ensure You Get Your Full Rental Bond Back
Moving out of your rental property in South Australia?
If you’re like most tenants, getting your full rental bond refund back is top of mind.
Since a rental bond can be as much as four weeks' rent, it’s worth making sure you take the right steps to secure that money.
Here’s how to get your full bond back and avoid any surprises when your lease ends.
1. Know the bond refund process
In South Australia, the rental bond you paid at the beginning of your lease is held by the Residential Tenancies Fund.
At the end of your lease, your landlord or property manager will carry out a final inspection, comparing the property’s current condition to the original Condition Report that was done when you moved in.
For a smooth rental bond return, you and the landlord must both agree on the amount to be refunded. If everything checks out—meaning no unpaid rent or property damage beyond normal wear and tear—you should receive your full bond back without any issues.
And as the South Australian Government notes, “All tenants who have contributed to the bond and the managing party - e.g., the landlord, real estate agent or organisation managing the rental property - must agree on the refund amount for it to be processed.
2. Leave the property clean and tidy
One of the main reasons tenants don’t get their full bond back is because the property wasn’t left clean enough.
The rule of thumb is simple: leave the property in the same condition as when you moved in, aside from normal wear and tear.
Paying attention to detail can make all the difference when getting your full bond back.
A checklist can help you stay on top of this. Here’s what to focus on:
- Carpets: If required, have them professionally steam cleaned.
- Windows: Don’t forget to clean both the inside and outside.
- Kitchens: Make sure appliances—like ovens, stovetops and dishwashers—as well as cupboards and surfaces are spotless.
- Bathrooms: Scrub tiles, clean grout lines and polish fixtures and fittings until they shine.
- Outdoor Areas: If your rental property has a yard or garden, make sure it’s tidy and mowed.
Going through these areas thoroughly can help you avoid any cleaning fees and ensure a smooth rental bond refund process.
3. Settle any outstanding bills
To maximise your chances of getting your rental bond returned in full, make sure you’ve paid any outstanding rent and utility bills, including water usage charges.
Any unpaid amounts can be deducted from your bond, so it’s important that everything is cleared before handing back the keys.
Make sure to:
- Pay rent up to the final day you return the keys.
- Finalise all utility bills, including water usage and any other charges outlined in your lease, to avoid any bond deductions.
4. Fix any damage
Accidents happen, but it’s important to fix any damage that goes beyond normal wear and tear before the final inspection.
This could mean patching up or repairing holes, scuffs and scratches on walls, replacing broken fixtures like doorknobs, or addressing any other damage caused during your tenancy.
If the landlord has to fix these issues after you’ve moved out, they may deduct the cost from your bond.
To protect yourself, take clear photos or videos when you move in, and also just before you leave.
This way, if there are any disputes, you’ll have evidence of the property’s condition.
5. Communicate with your Property Manager
Communication is key when it comes to securing your rental bond return.
If there are any concerns or issues during the final inspection, your property manager will usually let you know.
Staying responsive, addressing concerns promptly and being proactive can help resolve any problems quickly, speed up the process and make sure you get your bond back as quickly as possible.
Final tips
The key to getting your full bond back is leaving the property in good condition.
Clean thoroughly, fix any damage, settle outstanding bills and keep the lines of communication open.
By doing this, you’ll maximise your chances of getting your full bond back without any hiccups.
At We Connect Property, we’re here to make your renting experience as seamless as possible.
If you have any questions about rental bonds, your responsibilities as a tenant or if you need support at any stage, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
We’re here to help make the rental process straightforward and stress-free!
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If you have more questions or need assistance with any aspect of your tenancy, don't hesitate to reach out to us.
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DISCLAIMER: All recommendations made by We Connect Property are general in nature and not to be relied upon as legal or financial advice. To ensure accuracy, we always strongly recommend seeking independent, professional advice tailored to your specific situation before making any investment or financial decisions.