Moving Out Checklist
Moving out is your chance to protect your bond, document the property’s final condition, and ensure the landlord cannot claim for damage you didn’t cause. This checklist guides you through everything you need to do before handing back the keys.
1. Give Proper Notice
If you’re on a periodic tenancy
- Give 28 days’ written notice
- State the final day of the tenancy
- Keep a copy of the notice
If you’re on a fixed‑term tenancy
- Ends automatically on the end date
- No notice required unless your agreement says otherwise
- If ending early, get written agreement from the landlord
2. Confirm Move‑Out Details
- Final inspection date and time
- How to return keys
- Whether the landlord wants to attend the inspection
- Forwarding address for bond refund
3. Clean the Property (Reasonably Clean and Tidy)
You do not need professional cleaning unless you caused damage — but you do need to leave the home reasonably clean.
General Cleaning
- Vacuum all floors
- Mop hard floors
- Wipe walls and skirting boards
- Clean windows (inside only)
- Remove cobwebs
- Dust shelves and surfaces
Kitchen
- Clean oven, stovetop, and trays
- Wipe cupboards inside and out
- Clean rangehood and filters
- Empty and clean fridge/freezer (if provided)
Bathroom
- Clean shower, bath, and basin
- Remove soap scum
- Clean toilet
- Wipe mirrors
- Check for mould and clean surfaces
Laundry
- Clean lint from dryer (if provided)
- Wipe washing machine seals and detergent tray
4. Outdoor Areas
- Mow lawns (if this was your responsibility)
- Remove rubbish
- Sweep decks and paths
- Tidy garden beds (if required by agreement)
- Check outdoor lighting
5. Repairs and Damage
Tenants are responsible for intentional or careless damage, not wear and tear.
Check for:
- Broken handles or latches
- Holes in walls
- Broken windows
- Burn marks or stains
- Damage caused by pets
If you caused it, arrange repairs before moving out.
6. Remove All Personal Items
- Furniture
- Rubbish
- Food
- Clothing
- Items in cupboards, drawers, and storage areas
- Items in the garage or shed
Anything left behind may be treated as rubbish and deducted from your bond.
7. Final Condition Photos
Before handing over the keys, take comprehensive photos or video of:
- Every room
- Walls, floors, and ceilings
- Appliances
- Inside cupboards
- Outdoor areas
- Any pre‑existing damage
- Meters (power, gas, water)
Save everything in a folder labelled Move‑Out Condition.
This protects you from unfair claims.
8. Return Keys
- Return all keys, remotes, and access cards
- Get written confirmation they were received
- Keep a photo of the handover message or email
9. Bond Refund Process
After you move out:
- Landlord and tenant complete the bond refund form
- If both agree, the bond is released quickly
- If there is a dispute, Tenancy Services holds the bond until resolved
If the landlord makes a claim you disagree with
You can:
- Request evidence
- Decline the claim
- Apply to the Tenancy Tribunal
The landlord must prove any damage or cleaning beyond fair wear and tear.
10. Summary
Moving out is your chance to protect your bond and close the tenancy cleanly. By documenting the final condition, cleaning to a reasonable standard, returning keys properly, and keeping clear records, you ensure a smooth exit and prevent unfair deductions.
