Bond deductions are largely preventable. The tenants who get their full bond back consistently aren't lucky — they've taken specific steps throughout their tenancy that protect them at exit. Here's what those steps are.
At Move-In: The Ingoing Condition Report
The ingoing Property Condition Report is your single most important protective document. Complete it thoroughly:
- Walk through every room carefully before signing anything
- Note every mark, stain, scratch, and pre-existing issue in writing
- Take date-stamped photos of everything you note
- If you find something after the 5-day addition period, notify your property manager in writing immediately
- Keep a copy of the signed ingoing PCR for the entire tenancy
During the Tenancy
- Report maintenance issues promptly in writing — a leaking shower that causes mould is not your responsibility if you reported it
- Ventilate bathrooms during and after showers — exhaust fan on, window open if possible
- Clean the oven every few months rather than leaving it to build up over years
- Use furniture pads under chairs and tables to prevent floor scratches
- Fix minor damage — a small hole from a picture hook is far cheaper to repair yourself than to have the landlord arrange it and charge you
- Keep all correspondence with your property manager in writing
At Move-Out: The Bond Clean
A professional bond clean with a REIWA-aligned checklist and a bond back guarantee is the most effective single action you can take to prevent deductions. It addresses the cleaning standard comprehensively and gives you a guaranteed safety net if anything is missed.
At the Exit Inspection
- Attend the inspection if possible
- Bring the ingoing condition report and cleaning receipts
- Take photos before handing back the keys
- Raise any disputes in writing promptly — don't let claims go unanswered
The Bottom Line
Most bond deductions in Perth come from three things: cleaning standard, undocumented pre-existing damage, and unreported maintenance issues. Address all three proactively and the exit process becomes significantly smoother.
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