Moving out and the importance of leaving your rental in a good condition

A good tenant record is vital in today's marketplace and that is underscored by leaving your rental property in a good condition when the time comes to move on. Landlords usually do background checks on previous tenant behaviour hence a favourable record is important for anyone looking to rent.

Ingoing and outgoing inspections are not just legal requirements but form an essential part of the tenancy. Tenants should always ensure this is done upfront when they move in and again when they vacate the premises. The property should be left clean and restored in time for the next tenant to move in.

Handover time is usually 12pm (midday) on the commencement day of the new tenant's lease, usually on the 1st of the month. Moving is stressful and nothing is worse than running late with new tenants waiting in the driveway with their moving truck. It is therefore best to have the property ready the day before handover. 

By being prepared and organized, you can be calm on moving day and hand over with pride. Make use of a checklist and ensure everything is done before the morning of the 1st. Seeff's Inspections Manager will usually set up the "Outgoing Inspection" which must be arranged and booked timeously.

In advance of your moving day, you should address any damages or maintenance issues by either reporting these to Seeff in writing or getting these repaired and any painting done where necessary. Everything must be in working order when the property is handed over including the oven, pool pump, light switches, lights with new working globes, geyser, garage doors and two sets of working keys and remotes handed over.

Ensure the garden (if applicable) is cleaned with the lawn trimmed, flower beds weeded, and all garden refuse removed. If there is a pool, ensure it is clean and that the pump and filter is in working order.

The last week should be spent on clearing out and cleaning the property thoroughly. Walls, floors, fittings, windows and all areas including inside cupboards should be thoroughly cleaned. The kitchen, bathroom/s and garage must be sparkling clean. Failing this, a professional cleaning service will need to be called out and the cost will be deducted from the deposit.

Floors must be thoroughly cleaned, and carpets steam cleaned in time to be dry before the 12pm handover. If pets were kept, the property must be fumigated prior to vacating the property.

If the property is semi- or fully furnished, ensure all appliances are cleaned and functioning and curtains and furniture cleaned. The freezer must be defrosted, and everything must be in full working order before handover.

On moving day, ensure you are out by the midday deadline. All personal belongings including the contents of all cupboards and refrigeration/freezer must be removed. All rubbish must be removed from the premises including garden refuse and the wheelie bin is to be left empty and clean.

On leaving the property for the final time, ensure that all windows and doors are locked, and the property is fully secure.

Home is our Story and property our passion. As a top real estate brand across the Southern Suburbs and Constantiaberg with a 57-year track record of success, landlords and tenants know they can trust Seeff. Contact us today to discuss your next property journey.

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