Rental property condition reports

Key information

• A condition report records the general condition of the property, room by room, including fixtures and fittings. It is evidence of how the property was before the tenant moved in.
• At the end of a tenancy, the condition report can be used to check what is fair wear and tear over the time of the tenancy and what might be damage that the tenant needs to fix before they can finalise their tenancy.
• The more detail, including time-stamped photographs, in a condition report, the less likely disputes will arise at the end of a tenancy.
• All damage, including minor damage, should be noted and described on the report
• Any visible hazards relating to electricity (e.g. a loose or damaged electricity outlet socket, loose wiring or sparking power points) should be noted

• Faulty electricity sockets or loose wiring may be deemed as an urgent repair.

• Information on whether smoke alarms are installed (as required by legislation) and the dates that they were last checked and had battery replacement needs to be included
• Tenants and landlords need to confirm if there are any safety switches and if they are working, which can only be done if the agent or landlord and tenant has done a test
• The Tribunal can make orders about either amending or not amending a condition report as they see fit.

Moving in

Landlord's responsibilities

A landlord or agent must:

• fill out a condition report before a tenant moves in
• give two paper copies, or one electronic copy, to the tenant either before or at the time the tenancy agreement is given to the tenant to sign.

Tenant's responsibilities

Tenants should:

• complete their part of the condition report
• take photos to go with the condition report - making sure to include time stamps to show when images were taken
• return one completed copy to the landlord or agent within seven days of moving in
• keep the other copy for their records.

Note that:

• a new condition report is not needed if the same people renew the tenancy agreement, or if a new co-tenant or occupant moves in.

Moving out

A tenant and the landlord or agent should each have a copy of the condition report they filled in at the beginning of the tenancy.

When a tenant moves out, they will need to fill the condition report in again. This should be done by the landlord or agent and tenant in each other's presence. However, it can be done without the other person being present provided they have been given a reasonable opportunity to be present.

The report should be filled out with as much detail and accuracy as possible.

If there is a disagreement or dispute about missing items or damage, the condition report can be used as evidence.

Sample condition report

Download a sample residential tenancy condition report.