Losing part of your bond is one of the most frustrating experiences for Melbourne renters — and it's almost always preventable. Here's the exact process to follow, from the day you move in to the day you hand back the keys.
Step 1: Document Everything on Move-In Day
The moment you receive your keys, do a thorough walk-through with your condition report. This document is your legal protection. Record every existing mark, scratch, stain, and damage in writing and with photographs — timestamped photos are the most defensible evidence.
- Photograph every room from multiple angles
- Close-up shots of any pre-existing damage, stains, or wear
- Check inside cupboards, under sinks, and behind appliances
- Note the condition of the oven, stovetop, and rangehood
- Check carpet condition and any existing marks or stains
- Test all windows, doors, and locks
Return the condition report to your agent within the time specified in your tenancy agreement (usually 3–5 business days). Keep a signed copy for yourself.
Step 2: Understand What's "Fair Wear and Tear"
Under Victorian tenancy law, landlords cannot charge for fair wear and tear — the natural deterioration that occurs from ordinary use over time. What this means in practice:
- Fair wear and tear (landlord cannot charge): Small scuffs on walls from furniture, worn carpet in high-traffic areas, faded paintwork after several years
- Damage (tenant is responsible for): Holes in walls, deep carpet stains, broken windows, burnt benchtops, mould caused by poor ventilation
The longer you've lived in the property, the more generous the fair wear and tear allowance. Consumer Affairs Victoria has specific guidelines on this — it's worth reading before your final inspection.
Step 3: Book Professional Cleaning at the Right Time
Book your end-of-lease clean for 1–2 days before your final inspection. This gives time to address anything the cleaner flags, without the property having time to collect dust again before the agent arrives.
A professional bond clean from Central Sea Cleaning covers:
- Full oven, stovetop, rangehood and dishwasher clean
- Bathroom descale, grout treatment, and mould removal
- All cupboards inside and out, including pantry
- Skirting boards, window tracks, and window sills
- Carpet steam cleaning (with receipt for your agent)
- Walls spot-cleaned
- Garage sweep and bin clean
Step 4: Handle Repairs Before the Inspection
Identify any damage you caused during the tenancy and address it before the final inspection:
- Holes in walls: Small nail holes can be filled with spakfilla (available at any hardware store). Larger holes may need a plasterer.
- Carpet stains: Professional steam cleaning removes most stains. For pet urine, enzyme treatment is required — standard cleaning won't eliminate the odour.
- Light globes: Replace any blown globes — agents check these.
- Garden maintenance: If your lease includes garden maintenance, ensure the garden is in the same condition as your condition report.
Step 5: Be Present at the Final Inspection
You have the right to attend the final inspection. Being present gives you the opportunity to:
- Refer to your move-in photos if the agent queries something
- Address any concerns on the spot rather than in writing after the fact
- Get verbal confirmation that the property has passed
If the agent identifies issues, ask for them to be itemised in writing before agreeing to any deductions.
Step 6: Know Your Rights if There's a Dispute
If your landlord tries to withhold bond and you believe it's unfair, you can apply to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). VCAT bond disputes are free to lodge and are heard relatively quickly. Common successful defences include:
- Pre-existing damage documented on your condition report
- Deductions that exceed fair market rate for the work
- Charges for fair wear and tear
- Deductions not itemised within the required timeframe
The Central Sea Cleaning Bond Guarantee
When you book a bond clean with us, we provide a 72-hour re-clean guarantee. If your agent raises any issue with our work, we return to address it at no extra cost. That guarantee — in writing — is something no DIY clean can replicate. Call us on 0404 378 911 or get an instant online quote at cscleaners.com.au.