Why your exit condition report matters

The exit condition report (also called an outgoing inspection or move-out report) is the document agents use to justify any deductions from your bond. If something looks worse than the day you moved in, the agent may try to charge you. The only defence is your own evidence.

Australian tenancy law gives the agent up to 14 days after you hand back the keys to lodge a bond claim. If they make a claim, you have the right to dispute it through your state tribunal — VCAT, NCAT, QCAT, SACAT, ACAT or the Magistrates Court. Your photos are your evidence.

What makes a strong exit condition report

Photographed AFTER cleaning — never before. The report documents the condition you're handing over.
Same rooms, same angles as entry — makes comparison easy.
Timestamped automatically — proves when it was taken.
Side-by-side comparison — flags any differences from your move-in.
Tenant-reviewed — you confirm or dismiss every flag yourself.
Bond recovery suggestions — practical fixes for anything you confirm.

How RenterIQ creates your exit report

Make sure the property is fully cleaned and empty — don't start before this.
Open the exit inspection in RenterIQ — it pulls up your entry report automatically.
Walk each room in the same order as the entry report.
Photograph everything — same angles as entry where possible.
Compare side-by-side — RenterIQ surfaces any differences for your review.
Confirm or dismiss each flag — you stay in control.
Get bond recovery suggestions for anything you confirm.
Generate the PDF — send it to your agent before key handover.

Generate your exit condition report now

Free forever. Built specifically to help you get your full bond back.

🚪 Start Free →

What to clean before your exit inspection

Most bond disputes are about cleanliness, not damage. Use this checklist before you start the exit walkthrough:

Oven and stovetop — degreased, racks cleaned. Single biggest source of cleaning charges.
Range hood filter — soak it in hot soapy water or replace it.
Windows and tracks — both inside and out where accessible. Tracks especially.
Bathroom grout and tiles — scrub mould, descale shower screen.
Toilet — including the base and behind it.
Carpets — vacuumed minimum; professionally cleaned if your lease requires it (keep the receipt).
Walls and skirting boards — scuff marks wiped down.
Garden — lawn mowed, edges trimmed, weeds removed.
Light fittings — bulbs working, dust removed.

State-specific bond return rules

VIC — VCAT NSW — NCAT QLD — RTA WA — Magistrates Court SA — SACAT TAS — Magistrates ACT — ACAT NT — NTCAT

Frequently asked questions

How long does the agent have to return my bond?

In most Australian states, the agent has 14 days from the day you hand back the keys to either return the bond in full or lodge a claim with the state bond authority. If they don't lodge a claim, your bond is automatically released.

What is "fair wear and tear" and can the agent charge me for it?

Fair wear and tear is the normal deterioration that happens from everyday use. Agents cannot deduct from your bond for fair wear and tear. Examples include: faded paint after years, light scuffs on walls, normal carpet wear in walkways, small picture-hook holes (in most states).

Can the agent charge me for professional carpet cleaning?

Only if your lease specifically requires it AND there's actual damage or dirtiness. Many leases include this clause but it's not always enforceable — especially if the carpets are returned in reasonable condition. Keep your cleaning receipts.

What if my agent makes an unfair claim against my bond?

You have the right to dispute it through your state tribunal. RenterIQ's exit condition report — with photos timestamped and compared against your entry report — is exactly the kind of evidence tribunals use to assess these disputes.

Should I be at the exit inspection with the agent?

Yes if possible. Walk through with the agent, take your own photos at the same time, and note anything they flag in writing. You can also do your own RenterIQ exit walkthrough beforehand so you know what to expect.