Landlord End-Of-Tenancy Checklist: What To Do

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Landlords have more responsibilities to take care of than many people consider, which is especially true when a lease is coming up. With the various factors that need to be taken into consideration with this, it’s easy to see why some things are overlooked. With a landlord end-of-tenancy checklist, however, that doesn’t need to be the case.

While quite a few things will be obvious, having this checklist will make sure the not-so-obvious factors are considered. With that, you should rest assured that the end-of-tenancy process goes smoothly.

Landlord End-Of-Tenancy Checklist: What To Do When The Lease Ends

1. Confirmation Of Finality

A tenancy agreement doesn’t simply end overnight, except in rare circumstances. Outside of these, you’ll need to confirm that the tenancy is ending. You or your tenant will have to give notice to vacate, with the minimum amount of time needed for this usually being 28 days. That can vary depending on the contract, however.

Having a verbal confirmation isn’t enough for this, as you’ll need to have it in writing. Should either you or the tenant verbally mention vacating the property, get it in writing the same day. Usually, the notice period starts from the date of when this written confirmation is created.

Make sure it’s one of the first things you do.

2. Inspection

An inspection of the property is always needed when a tenant is moving out. You’ll need to make sure they’re leaving it in the same condition they got it in. It could be worth doing this before they move out to give you time to resolve any disputes.

You’ll need to check for multiple things during this process, such as damage to the property or any missing items. Even drug testing rental properties can be an option if you’re worried any criminal activity took place.

Having a strategy in place for this inspection is recommended, but it could be worth hiring a professional to do so for you. They can spot damage more effectively than you may be able to.

3. Make Deposit Deductions

Once the final check out has been completed, it’s time to start thinking about deductions. Whether these will need to be made at all is debatable, which makes it worth considering. These will come directly out of the security deposit and are typically deducted for:

• Broken belongings, such as door handles
• Rubbish or belongings left at the property
• Any utility bills that come in post-departure that they’re at least partially responsible for

Typical wear and tear, however, can’t be deducted from a security deposit, with this being any form of minor damage resulting from the standard use of the property. Should you and the former tenant not agree on the final amount, independent inspections and verifications can resolve the situation.

Landlord End-Of-Tenancy Checklist: Wrapping Up

A landlord end-of-tenancy checklist makes sure you don’t overlook any factors while going through the process. With how many things you’ll need to juggle, that can be a welcome addition to your rental management.

There shouldn’t be anything stopping you from making sure the process goes smoothly.