How should I prepare for check-out and record the property condition?

Before leaving, compare the property with the check-in record, complete agreed tenant responsibilities and create dated evidence of the condition in which you returned it. Good records can prevent or resolve an end-of-tenancy disagreement.

What should I do before check-out?

• Read the tenancy agreement and check-out instructions.
• Review the inventory, schedule of condition and check-in photographs.
• Report repairs that are the landlord's responsibility instead of hiding or attempting an unsafe repair.
• Remove your belongings and rubbish.
• Clean the property back to the evidenced check-in standard.
• Replace only items you are responsible for and keep receipts.
• Agree how and when every key, fob or permit will be returned.

What evidence should I keep?

1. Take clear, dated photographs and a slow video of every room, surface and supplied item.
2. Photograph meter readings and any returned keys.
3. Keep cleaning, repair and disposal receipts.
4. Keep emails reporting earlier disrepair, leaks or damage.
5. Keep any signed change-of-sharer document and mid-tenancy inspection.
6. Save the check-out report and challenge factual errors promptly in writing.

Do I have to pay for professional cleaning?

You are normally responsible for returning the property to the evidenced standard at check-in, not automatically for buying a professional-cleaning service. A proposed cleaning charge should show that extra cleaning was needed because of the tenancy and that the claimed cost is reasonable.

What counts as fair wear and tear?

Fair wear and tear is the deterioration expected from normal, careful use over time. It depends on matters such as the length of occupation, number of occupants, item age and quality. It is different from damage caused by misuse, negligence or an unreported problem becoming worse.