Your moving-in checklist
What to photograph, test and confirm in the first week to protect your bond.
Document the property on day one
Before you unpack, photograph every room, including any existing marks, scuffs or wear, and take close-ups of anything already damaged. Compare it against the ingoing inspection report and note anything missing. This time-stamped evidence is your single best protection at move-out, it settles most bond disagreements before they start because you can show exactly how the place looked when you arrived.
Test that everything works
Check the smoke alarms, taps and water pressure, toilet, oven, heat pump or heater, and that every lock and window latch works. Confirm you have all the keys and remotes you were promised. If anything is faulty, report it in writing straight away so it’s on record as a pre-existing issue rather than something you might be blamed for later.
Confirm the essentials
Make sure your bond has been lodged with Tenancy Services within the required timeframe, you should receive confirmation. Set up your power, water where charged separately, and internet, and note the meter readings on the day you move in. Find the mains water shut-off and the fuse box now, so you’re not hunting for them in an emergency.
Settle in the right way
Save your property manager’s contact details and ask how to log maintenance requests. Introduce yourself to neighbours where you can, and read your tenancy agreement so you know your responsibilities around things like lawns, rubbish and any pet or smoking rules. A calm, organised first week sets the tone for a smooth tenancy.