What to check first
- Give notice in writing and keep a copy — check your contract for the required notice period
- Take dated photos of every room, appliance and fixture before you leave
- Clean to the standard specified in your tenancy agreement
- Take final meter readings on your last day
- Return all keys and get written confirmation
- Request your deposit/bond return in writing with your forwarding address
Common mistakes renters make
- Not giving proper written notice — verbal notice is risky
- Leaving without a final photo record to compare against move-in
- Assuming a professional clean is always required (check your contract)
- Not confirming key return in writing
- Waiting for the landlord to contact them instead of requesting deposit return proactively
Recommended solution
Deposit Dispute Action Pack
Includes a pre-move-out checklist, final photo log template, cleaning standard guide, key return confirmation letter and a deposit return request template.
Also useful
Letter Template Library
Get Letter Templates Complete Renter Protection Bundle
See the Full Bundle Want the full toolkit? The Complete Renter Protection Bundle includes deposit letters, move-out checklists, admin planners and more.
RentSmart provides general information, templates and organisation tools. It is not legal advice. Always check the rules in your country, state or territory, and seek qualified help for urgent housing problems.