The Iglu Guide | Blog
Moving out of student accommodation: What you need to do
Moving out of your student accommodation is an exciting time, as it means you’re at the start of a brand new chapter. But before you start to pack your bags, there are a few important jobs to tick off to make sure that rental bond returns right back where it belongs. Here’s how to protect your deposit and make moving-out as stress free as possible!
1. Protecting your bond starts on move-in day
The rental bond is a refundable security deposit that is paid on moving into rented accommodation. In Australia, it is usually equivalent to a few weeks rent. It acts as financial protection for your accommodation provider in the event of any damage, unpaid bills or cleaning costs. The best way to protect your money is to understand your responsibilities right from the beginning, ensure you keep good records and always follow the process.
- Always check your move-in inventory thoroughly
- Ensure all items, furniture and appliances are accounted for
- Verify the condition accurately and be sure to note any existing damage, stains or scratches
- Take photos and videos, particularly in any shared spaces
- Report any issues immediately by notifying your accommodation provider in writing
- Return your condition report on time and keep a copy for your records
- Understand the difference between damage and fair wear and tear. The definition is broadly similar across states
- Know your rental agreement and understand your responsibilities in terms of upkeep and notice periods to avoid unnecessary charges
- The rental jargon can be confusing, so make sure you understand everything you are reading or be sure to ask for help
2. Getting ready to move – your essential cleaning and packing checklist
Check your move-out requirements early on in the piece. Departure date, notice period, and any cleaning or check-out instructions that will have to be actioned. That gives you plenty of time to plan ahead, activate housemates if necessary, and avoid that horrible rush in the last few days. It’s a bit like preparing to go home for the holidays, but this time you’re not coming back. Once you have all the details you can:
- Start packing and organising your belongings well ahead of time
- Clean your accommodation thoroughly and ensure it is left in the condition you found it on move-in day. This is a good opportunity to refer back to your photos:
- Bedroom: Vacuum floors, wipe surfaces, clean mirrors and empty cupboards.
- Bathroom: Clean shower, toilet, sink and mirrors.
- Kitchen: Clean appliances, empty the fridge, remove food and rubbish.
- Shared spaces: leave clean and check what is expected
- Once you have packed, check drawers and cupboards, as well as any storage spaces and look under the bed for missed items
- Stockpile unwanted items to donate, sell or recycle
- Check for any damage or maintenance issues well ahead of time, and report any problems to your accommodation provider
3. Moving-out day – don’t miss the final checks
Check your room and any shared spaces thoroughly by completing a final walk-through before handing back your keys and heading home. This gives you the opportunity to identify any issues that may be different to ordinary wear-and-tear. Record the condition of the property by taking some final photos and videos.
- Attend the final inspection where possible. This gives you the opportunity to discuss any issues and clarify potential deductions.
- Return all keys and access cards as any missing items may result in replacement charges.
- Settle any outstanding payments such as unpaid rent or utility bills.
- Follow the property’s departure procedure and provide updated contact details.
- Keep important documentation such as condition reports, photos, receipts and relevant correspondence until your bond has been officially refunded.
4. Getting your bond back – how rental refunds work in Australia
Once you’ve moved out and completed your final inspection, it’s time to focus on getting your bond back. In Australia, bonds are usually held by an independent government authority:
- NSW (Sydney): NSW Fair Trading.
- Queensland (Brisbane): Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA).
- Victoria (Melbourne): Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA).
The process will vary by state and accommodation type. Your accommodation provider may initiate the refund process, or you may have to submit a claim yourself. Confirm the process before you move out and ensure your contact details are up to date.
- International students should keep an Australian bank account open until the refund has been processed
- Understand where there may be potential deductions such as damage beyond fair wear and tear, unpaid rent and additional cleaning
- Know what your rights are if you disagree with the findings and understand the relevant dispute resolution process by state
- Allow some time for processing. Refund timeframes will vary depending on the state, agreement and whether there are any deductions.
Frequently asked questions
A rental bond is usually equal to a few weeks’ rent. It’s a refundable security deposit you pay when you move in. It covers your accommodation provider if there’s damage, unpaid rent or extra cleaning needed when you leave. The exact amount depends on your provider, your rental agreement and the state you live in.
In most cases, your bond is held by an independent government authority, not your accommodation provider. In NSW this is NSW Fair Trading, in Queensland it’s the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA), and in Victoria it’s the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA). Check with your provider how your bond has been lodged, as the process can vary by accommodation type.
Leave your room in the same condition you found it, apart from normal wear and tear. Clean thoroughly, return all keys and access cards, pay any outstanding rent or bills, and follow your property’s check-out process. Comparing your room to the photos and condition report from move-in day is the easiest way to spot anything you might have missed
Fair wear and tear is the natural deterioration that happens over time with normal use, like worn carpet in walkways or faded curtains. Damage is something caused by accident or neglect, such as holes in walls, broken furniture or burn marks. Only damage can be deducted from your bond.
It’s not always required, but attending is recommended. Being there lets you discuss any issues with your accommodation provider on the spot and clarify potential deductions before they’re finalised. If you can’t attend, take your own photos and videos of the room before handing back your keys.
