We understand moving can be stressful, so we’ve put together some helpful information to make your vacate process as smooth as possible. Please read through the steps below carefully, as they outline both your responsibilities and some useful tips to help you get your full bond refunded without delays.
Notice to Vacate
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If you’re planning to move out, you’ll need to provide a Notice of Intention to Leave (Form 13) to our office in line with the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) requirements.
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Once your notice is received, we’ll confirm your vacate date in writing.
Rent & Bond
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Rent must be paid up until and including your vacate date. Bond cannot be used as rent.
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After the final inspection, your bond will be processed through the RTA’s online system. The RTA may contact you directly to confirm your bank details. Refunds usually appear in your nominated account within 3–5 business days after landlord approval.
Tip: Set a reminder to cancel any direct debit/automated rent payments after your vacate date to avoid over payment.
Keys & Documentation
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All keys, remotes, and access devices must be returned in a clearly labelled envelope to our office:
Living Here Cush Partners, 860 Brunswick Street, New Farm. -
Please email your Property Manager:
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Any cleaning, carpet, and pest receipts
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A forwarding address is required from each tenant for bond processing.
Cleaning & Presentation
To maximise your bond refund, the property must be returned in the same condition it was at the start of your tenancy, fair wear and tear excepted.
Helpful tips:
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Use our Cleaning Checklist as a guide.
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Book professional bond cleaners, carpet cleaners, and pest control (if required under your lease).
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Don’t forget “easy-to-miss” areas: ceiling fans, light fittings, skirting boards, and behind appliances.
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The NBN box (if applicable) must remain at the property.
We can recommend reliable contractors if you’d like support. Please reach out to your Property Manager directly.
Utilities
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Please leave electricity connected for at least three business days after vacating. This allows us to test all lights and appliances during the exit inspection.
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For your new home, we can connect utilities free of charge through our Move Me In service: click here.
Exit Inspection
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Our office will conduct the vacate inspection within 3 business days after keys are returned.
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If issues are found, we’ll notify you. Where possible, we allow at least 24 hours for tenants to return and address items.
Water & Final Accounts
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If your property is water compliant, a final meter read will be taken at handover. Charges will be calculated and payable prior to the bond being released.
- How to take a water meter reading: QUU – https://www.urbanutilities.com.au/residential/help-and-advice/water-meters
- Unity Water – https://www.unitywater.com/meter-reading-FAQs
Re-Letting During Notice Period
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The property may be advertised for lease once notice has been given.
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We’ll request your written consent to hold open inspections (usually 10–20 minutes, twice a week). Consent Form.
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Open inspections minimise disruption by reducing multiple individual appointments. You’ll always receive written notice of inspection times.
RTA Form 17a – Pocket Guide for Tenants