In moving out of rental property getting the full amount back is the only biggest concern. Bond refund isn’t that hard but there are some reasons where mostly bond deduction happens and many renters discover that even after several years of timely payments and proper care. Tenants are required to return the property in a clean and well maintained condition it was in at the start of the tenancy. According to tenancy data, In Australia most cases of bond deductions happen because the property does not meet the expectations outlined in the lease agreement or condition report.
So, that’s why understanding these reasons becomes important to save from bond deductibility which helps to avoid tenants unnecessary costs at the end. We will explain the most common reason for bond deductions. So, that you can move freely without worrying anything.
INADEQUATE END OF LEASE CLEANING
This one is the most frequent reason- Poor or incomplete cleaning reason is the major and common cause why many tenants lose their bond. Its because landlords expect from tenant the property to be returned in the same level of cleanliness as it was at the beginning of the lease. This underestimating makes the tenant to lose bond and in this its important to look at these areas,
- Inside ovens
- Rangehoods
- Dishwashers
- Behind appliances
- Window tracks and sills
- Carpets with stains
If these areas cannot clean properly, lead to professional cleaning costs being taken from the bond. But professional bond cleaning services are the safest option because they understand the industry expectation which reduces the risk of losing Bond.
PROPERTY DAMAGE BEYOND FAIR WEAR AND TEAR
Property damage is also the another common reason why many tenants lose bonds. Fair wear and tear refers to normal ageing of a property through everyday use which includes,
- Holes in walls from nails or fixtures
- Broken tiles and window or doors
- Severe carpet stains and burns
- Cracked bench tops or damaged cabinetry
These are the common issues of normal wear and tear which is usually require repairs or replacements and the cost is commonly deducted from the bond. That’s why tenants should always review the entry condition report and take photos when moving in because it will protect you from charge for pre existing damage.
UNPAID RENT AND OUTSTANDING BILLS
Unpaid rent and outstanding bills is cause the landlords legally allowed to deduct the amount from the bond which includes,
- Unpaid water bill
- Unpaid electricity bill
- Unpaid property rent
To avoid this tenants should ensure all payments are cleared before handing over the keys and keep records of final payments as proof
ITEMS LEFT BEHIND IN THE PROPERTY
If the landlords have to arrange for removal of your large items which you are leaving behind is also the cause the cost from your bond and in this it includes,
- Old furniture
- Garden waste
- Boxes and junk in storage areas
- Unwanted appliances
These costs are often higher than expected especially for large items.
UNAPPROVED CHANGES TO THE PROPERTY
Unapproved changes to the property is the also common reason why tenants lose bond amount. Changes without written approval is also make the deducts in bond even if the changes increase the look of property and in this it includes,
- Painting walls different colors
- Installing shelves hooks or fixtures
- Changing garden layouts or plants
So, always check the lease agreement and get written permission before making any modifications.
OUTDOOR AREAS NOT MAINTAINED
Outdoor areas also count as the part of rental property and tenants must need to returned in good condition and if these areas are,
- Overgrown lawns and weeds
- Dirty balconies or patios
- Unremoved garden rubbish
Tenants are usually responsible and end of the lease deductions may apply.
MISSING KEYS AND SECURITY ITEMS
Failing to return all the items which is provided by landlords can be also the costlier reason and can lead to bond deductions,
- House keys
- Garage remotes
- Security fobs
Are the mostly reason so tenants should double check that all items provided at the start of the tenancy are returned,
POOR DOCUMENTATION AND COMMUNICATION
Many tenants ignore the essential documentation and communication which means not having enough photos, reports or receipts which becomes difficult to challenge a claim and these are the common documentation,
- Entry condition reports
- Photos from move in and move out
- Cleaning and repair receipts
Keeping copies of condition reports cleaning invoices and repair receipts helps protect the bond and supports the tenant in case of a dispute.
Conclusion
Moving from rental property is already a complicated task which includes all your belongings and also its important to get the full bond amount. Most bond deduction happens because of these eight reasons. Proper planning and with professional cleaning support like Best Bond Cleaning tenants can greatly improve their chances of receiving a full bond refund.
FAQs about WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON REASONS FOR BOND DEDUCTIONS
What does FAIR WEAR AND TEAR MEAN?
Natural deterioration that happens from normal living. Landlords cannot charge for this, only for damage caused by misuse or neglect.
Is Professional BOND CLEANING Required?
Not always legally required unless stated in the lease but professional cleaning greatly improves the chance of passing the final inspection.
Can a Tenant DISPUTE A BOND DEDUCTION?
Yes tenants can dispute unfair deductions by providing evidence,
- Photos
- Condition reports
- Receipts (through tenancy authority)
What happens if DAMAGE WAS ALREADY THERE?
In this case tenants need to look carefully at the entry condition report and take photos which can be used to prove it and prevent deductions.
Can UTILITY BILLS be taken from the bond?
Yes unpaid bills can legally be deducted from the tenants bond if they are not settled before moving out.
