Don’t forget the Entry Condition Report

Getting the keys to your new rental home is exciting, and it’s natural to want to get everything moved in as quickly as possible.

But before you do, there’s one essential task that every tenant should undertake – filling in the Entry Condition Report.

This vital piece of paperwork acts to protect both the landlord and the tenant, clearly outlining exactly what state every element of a rental property is in when a lease begins.

Here’s an insight into Entry Condition Reports and why they really, really matter.

What is an Entry Condition Report?

An Entry Condition Report is a standard document issued to a tenant at the beginning of a lease. Often spanning multiple pages, it lists every room and area of the property, its fixtures and fittings, and clearly identifies exactly what condition the property is in.

This includes walls, doors, lighting, blinds, curtains, the property exterior and so much more.

When a tenant receives an Entry Condition Report part of it will have been filled in by the property manager who will indicate whether they believe the relevant area is in good condition, working and free of any damage.

So, for example under Bedroom 1, it might indicate:

–          Walls – Good condition, three hook holes, mark left by previous painting

–          Lighting – Good condition, four downlights, all working

–          Doors – Working, one scuff mark on cupboard door

What the tenant should do

A tenant should consider an Entry Condition Report as an opportunity to really assess a property and its condition.

With the property manager’s notes in hand, go through every room in the home and see whether you agree with their assessment of its condition. If you find something they may have missed, note it in the tenant section of the report.

You can also take date-stamped pictures to illustrate your findings and keep these on file. Once you, as the tenant, have completed your assessment, you should sign it and give it back to the property manager.

Often there will be a time-frame which the Entry Condition Report needs to be completed within. Usually about 14 days, it is imperative you submit it within this time.

How an Entry Condition Report helps you

When a lease ends and it comes time to vacate a property, the property manager will use the Entry Condition Report to understand what, if any damage, has been incurred at the property during your tenancy, other than fair wear and tear.

That damage will then need to be rectified in order to retrieve your bond in full.

Basically, this makes Entry Condition Reports an insurance policy for both tenants and property managers. The document ensures both you and the property manager agree on the condition of the property and acts as a guide which the property will be measured against at the end of a lease to ensure you receive your bond back in full.

If you’re looking for property managers that will work with you to maintain the condition and value of your property, our Eview agents can assist. Visit www.eview.com.au for more information.