Let's Get Your Bond Back

At D Residential Group, we’re proud to be known as leaders in property management and trusted Perth property managers, with a strong presence in Mount Lawley and the surrounding areas. 

Tenants often ask us:
“How can I make sure I get my bond back in full?”

A rental bond is a security deposit that you pay when you first move in. It protects the landlord from having to pay for cleaning, damage to the property, or rent that isn't paid. The good news? Getting your entire bond back is definitely possible if you prepare well and pay attention to the details.

As property management specialists based in Mount Lawley, we have handled hundreds of bond returns. Here’s our step-by-step guide to help you leave your rental in great shape and get your bond back quickly.

1. Know What You Have to Do From the Start

A successful bond return starts the moment you move in. You should keep a copy of your lease and the Property Condition Report. This report highlights the condition of the property at the start of your tenancy, including photos.
Look it over carefully, add your own notes if you see something that wasn't covered, and send it back to your property manager on time. We will utilise this document to compare the property during the final inspection. 

2. Give Proper Notice

Before you even begin the moving out process, make sure you provide the correct vacating notice in writing, as outlined in your lease agreement. Failing to give the right notice could result in additional rent being charged. You must give at least 30 days’ notice if you are on a fixed lease or 21 days if you are on a periodic tenancy.

3. Pay All Outstanding Rent and Bills

Before handing back the keys, please make sure your rent is fully paid up to your vacate date. Keeping your rent up to date helps avoid complications and ensures the bond refund process can run smoothly.

Remember to also finalise your utility accounts, including gas, electricity, and water. Taking care of these ahead of time will make your move easier and ensure a hassle-free transition out of the property.

4. Clean the Property Thoroughly

When it comes time to moving out, the property must be returned in the same clean condition it was in when you moved in. Many tenants choose to hire professional cleaners for the vacate clean, as it saves time (and stress!) and ensures the property meets inspection standards. Just a reminder to keep your receipts as proof for the property manager.

• Floors – Use a vacuum and mop thoroughly, paying special attention to corners and edges.
• Kitchens – Clean the oven, stovetop, rangehood filters, cupboards, and benchtops.
• Bathrooms – Scrub the grout, taps, mirrors, and shower screens.
• Windows – If you can reach them, wipe the glass inside and out.
• Outdoor areas – Mow the lawns, pull weeds, and sweep the paths.
• Carpets must be professionally steam cleaned.

A thorough clean not only helps you get your bond back in full, but also makes the moving process smoother and less stressful.

5. Repair Minor Damage

Living in a home naturally leaves its little marks, a few marks on the wall or signs of everyday use are perfectly normal. But things like broken fittings, holes in the wall from pictures, or stains on benchtops go beyond fair wear and tear, and these can put your bond at risk.

If you can, take a moment to sort out the small things before your final inspection. Replacing a light bulb, patching up a hole, or tightening a cupboard handle screw might seem minor, but these little touches show you’ve cared for the place and can make a difference when it comes time to getting your full bond back.

6. Remove All Rubbish and Personal Items

When you move out, it’s easy to overlook a few things, an old table on the alfresco, a box of random bits in the shed, or bags of rubbish that didn’t make it to the bin in time. But anything left behind will likely need to be removed at your cost, and that can delay the return of your bond.

Before handing back the keys, take a final walk-through of the whole property, inside and out. Check all drawers and cupboards, the shed, alfresco or balcony, and the gardens to make sure everything is cleared and clean. Leaving the place completely empty is the best way to finish up smoothly and avoid extra charges.

7. Attend the Final Inspection 

If you can, be there with your property manager for the last inspection. This lets you go through the property to discuss any problems right away and, if necessary, rectify them quickly. The property manager will have a copy of the original Property Condition Report for reference.  Taking part in the inspection shows you care, and it can help speed up the process of getting your bond back.

8. Return All Keys

You have to return all of your keys, remotes, and access cards that you were given when you moved in, even additional keys you have cut during your tenancy. If you've misplaced a key or remote, you will be responsible for the replacement cost which can quickly add up.

9. Talk to Your Property Manager

Clear, respectful communication goes a long way. If you've hired cleaners or had repairs done, let your property manager know and provide them with copies of the receipt. Taking the initiative and being proactive can help the bond release process go quicker.

Final Thoughts

Securing your full bond refund starts long before your vacate date. It’s about:

• Taking care of the property from the start
• Keeping up with cleaning and maintenance
• Following the terms of your lease
• Communicating openly with your property manager

If you plan ahead, do your research, and leave the property in good condition, you won't have any problems and your tenancy will finish smoothly.

We at D Residential Group are proud to help our tenants at every step of the renting process. As Perth's property management specialists, you can count on us for clear guidance and fair, efficient bond processing.