NSW Condition Reports & Bond Cleaning: What Inspectors Actually Check

Tenants in NSW often know the stress of passing the final rental inspection at the end of a tenancy. It is more than packing household belongings, settling any pending rent/utility bills, or updating the new address. Renters are also responsible for handing over a leased home in a ‘reasonably clean’ condition, except for fair wear and tear. The fate of your hard earned bond money, which is equivalent to four weeks’ rent, relies on property’s state when moving out. That’s where condition reports and bond cleaning come in. Although condition reports vary from state to state, they all serve the same purpose.

Landlords or property managers thoroughly inspect the property to ensure it is in a tidy and maintained condition for the next occupant. This also means that leaving dirt, dust, or grease behind can lead to bond deductions or disputes. As a tenant, it is your responsibility to meticulously clean the property, including all rooms, kitchen surfaces, bathroom fixtures, outdoor areas, etc, after referring to the property condition report to pass your rental inspection. But what if you don’t know the inspection criteria used by the inspectors in NSW?

Fret not! Here is a comprehensive guide to understanding condition reports, and bond cleaning inclusions, along with a detailed checklist of areas real estate agents look for before releasing your bond money. You can also book experts for a guaranteed end of lease cleaning Sydney for peace of mind.

Let’s Get Started!

1. What are Condition Reports in NSW?

The condition report is a detailed document that outlines the property’s overall condition. It serves as evidence of how a property was before a tenant relocated. It is filled in at the start and end of a tenancy.

In simple words, it is a legally required document that records the general condition of the premises, room by room, including kitchen appliances, outdoor areas, bathroom fixtures and fittings. Both landlords and tenants fill out the report to compare the actual condition over time.

It is the responsibility of a landlord to provide you with a detailed condition report outlining the state of each room, appliance, and fixture when you move into the property. On the other hand, the tenant completes the same report after inspecting the entire property to address visible dirt, stains, damage, etc (beyond fair wear and tear) at the end of a tenancy. This document can help determine the success of your rental inspection, while standing as sole proof against any unfair deductions or disputes over cleaning.

2. What Sections are Included in NSW Condition Reports?

It outlines general information, such as property address, landlord and tenant details and date of inspection. It details every nook and cranny of the property, windows, doors, blinds, appliances, fixtures, built in cupboards and wardrobes etc. The report should include:

• All damage, including minor ones across the property, like marks, holes, faulty taps, etc.
• Any visible electrical hazards, such as loose outlet sockets, etc, should be noted. It must be deemed an urgent repair.
• Information on whether smoke alarms are installed and when they were last checked
• Both parties need to confirm if there are any safety switches.

Ensure you sign the property agreement only after inspecting the entire property thoroughly before moving in. This will help you address existing damage and accumulated dust to help prevent unfair deductions.

3. Who is Responsible to Complete a Condition Report?

Under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW), a landlord or agent is required to complete a condition report before a tenant moves in. They must give two paper copies or one electronic copy to the tenant at the beginning of a lease. The tenant will be asked to complete their part of the report. Ensure they cross check the property and address any existing damage or dirt. Also, take photographs and videos along with timestamps, as these can be used as evidence in case of any dispute at the end of the tenancy.

When moving out of your rental home in NSW, you, as a tenant, are required to fill out the condition report again, stating the current condition and comparing it with the original one. The best part is that professionals refer to the property condition report before performing a guaranteed end of lease cleaning Sydney to help secure bond money.

4. What is Bond Cleaning and why does it matter?

Also known as end of lease cleaning, bond cleaning is a one time task performed at the end of a tenancy. The main objective is to remove dirt, grime, grease, and gunk from all nooks and crannies to meet strict standards set by landlords and property managers. According to the Residential Tenancies Laws in NSW, tenants are required to restore the property to the same condition as it was at the start of a lease i.e clean, well maintained but expect for normal wear and tear. Since cleanliness is one of the reasons behind bond deductions, it is better to hire experts for detailed service.

They come equipped with all the necessary cleaning products and follow a pre-approved cleaning checklist. Make sure you do proper research to know the estimated cost in Sydney and choose the most reliable company within your budget.

Why condition report matter in bond cleaning? It helps verify the original condition of the property and ensures a fair bond refund after passing the rental inspection.

5. What Inspectors Actually Check During the Final Rental Inspection?

Landlords or inspectors conduct a thorough inspection before releasing your bond. They use the property condition report as proof to compare the current condition and may withhold the money if discrepancies are found in the reports. They check every nook and cranny, including:

• Walls and Paintwork: This includes cobwebs, accumulated dust, scuff marks, chipped paint, sticky residue, and stains.
• Kitchen and Appliances: A spotless kitchen can leave a lasting impression on the inspector. They thoroughly check whether the stovetops, cabinets, oven and microwave, fridge (inside and outside) are clean or not. All cupboards and drawers, garbage disposal, sink, faucets and countertops are also included in their checklist.
• Walls and Wall Treatments: This includes dust between window sills and tracks, streaky window glass screens,  bird droppings, grime, gunk, dusty blinds and dirty curtains.
• Bathroom and Laundry Room: They check for soap scum, rust, hard water stains, grease and mould on the shower screen, shower glass doors, walls, bathtubs, toilet seat and bowl, behind the rim area, counters, faucets, towel rails, exhaust fans, doorknobs, etc.
• Important spots: This includes air vents, ceiling fans, light fixtures and fittings, shelf tops, underneath appliances and furniture
• Floors and Carpets: Dull and dingy carpets and rugs may hold back your bond money. Landlords thoroughly inspect delicate floor coverings and floors to check for stubborn stains, pet stains, mould and bad odours. Sweep and mop hard floors properly.
• Outdoor Area:If your property has a balcony, garage, or patio, ensure you clean and maintain it properly. Ensure there is no rubbish or debris left behind, wipe down outdoor furniture, and remove cobwebs from garage walls,  driveways, etc.

6. How to Secure a Full Bond At the End of Tenancy?

According to the latest stats, more than $4 billion of rental bonds are held by government bodies in Australia. It is one of the difficult tasks to secure full bond money, especially in NSW, where landlords are strict about final inspections.

First things first! Carefully read your rights and responsibilities as a tenant in your rental agreement. Also, refer to the property condition report and address any damage that exceeds fair wear and tear. You can seek permission from landlords or inform them before the final inspection.

When it comes to cleaning, hire experts for a meticulous end of lease cleaning Sydney. A good company follows a strict cleaning checklist and offers a complete bond back guarantee (Ts and Cs apply) for your peace of mind. They know the landlord’s expectations and return the property in a spotless condition. Make sure you are available during the inspection to avoid unfair deductions or penalties.

Infographic: Guide on Condition Reports and Bond Cleaning : What Inspectors Look for in NSW Rentals?

Wrapping Up

A successful bond return in NSW depends on a well documented property condition report, a thorough bond cleaning and a fair deal. It is important to meet the set standards of inspectors and pass your inspection without any stress. Keep this guide handy when preparing your property at the end of your tenancy for a stress free move out.