As a renter in Victoria, understanding the process of ending your lease is crucial to avoid any legal or financial complications. Whether you’re at the end of a fixed-term lease or need to vacate earlier, it’s important to follow the correct procedures.

Notice Requirements

In Victoria, renters are required to provide a 28-day written notice to their rental providers if they intend to vacate the property, even if their lease is coming to an end. If your lease is a fixed-term lease, failing to provide this notice means your lease will revert to a month-to-month arrangement. The notice must be in writing, typically using the Notice to Vacate form, and it should clearly state your intention to leave the property and the date you plan to move out.

Moving Out

When you’re ready to move out, there are a few additional steps to ensure a smooth transition. If you’re living in an apartment building, it’s important to coordinate with your building manager to arrange for lift access and any other logistical considerations. Most buildings require a booking to be made to install lift protection and may allocate a lift for you to use during your allocated time slot. Failing to book a time may cause delays or penalties from building management.

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Additional Tips

• Removalist: Book your removalist or plan to move your belongings well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
• Cleaning and Repairs: Ensure the property is cleaned thoroughly and any necessary repairs are completed before handing back the keys. This will expedite your bond refund.
• Keys: Check that all keys, remotes and access devices that were provided to you at the commencement of the tenancy are returned.
• Utility Disconnections: Don’t forget to disconnect or transfer utilities like gas, electricity, and internet.

Conclusion

Ending a lease involves more than just moving out your belongings. By providing proper notice and coordinating the logistics of your move, you can avoid unnecessary complications and ensure a smooth transition to your next home.

For more detailed information and to access forms like the Notice to Vacate, you can refer to the Consumer Affairs Victoria website. Additionally, be sure to check out our comprehensive Vacate Guide for step-by-step instructions and tips on moving out.

This blog serves to guide you through the process, ensuring that you enjoy a hassle-free move.