Did you know that over 55% of renters in Melbourne reported delays in their bond refund due to last-minute issues like jammed locks or missing keys in 2024?
With stricter inspection policies in suburbs like Chadstone, even small oversights like a faulty lock can cost you hundreds in deductions.
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When preparing for the final inspection at the end of your lease, it’s easy to focus on cleaning and minor repairs, but end of lease security issues, like broken intercom systems, lost keys, or jammed deadbolts, are often overlooked. Security features, especially locks and keys, are crucial to the integrity of the property. If these issues aren’t fixed before you leave, they could lead to costly repairs and bond deductions.
In this blog, we’ll explore common end of lease security issues, such as broken intercom systems, lost or unreturned keys, and jammed locks, and provide you with solutions on how to address them before your final inspection. Taking care of these security issues can ensure that you get your full bond back without unnecessary deductions.
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1. Why Jammed Lock end of lease Your Bond Refund Security Issues Matter
At the end of your lease, landlords expect the property to be in good condition, including all security features. Locks, keys, and intercom systems are essential for maintaining the security of the property, and any issues with them could raise red flags for the landlord. Not only do security problems affect the property’s safety, but they can also lead to significant costs if they are not repaired or addressed before the inspection.
How Security Issues Can Impact Your Bond:
- Lock replacements: Broken locks or lost keys may require replacement, which can be an expensive expense that will likely be deducted from your bond.
- Non-functioning intercoms: If the intercom system isn’t working, it can be viewed as a breach of the property’s security, leading to repair costs.
- Malfunctioning deadbolts: A stiff or jammed deadbolt could compromise the property’s safety, and the landlord may need to pay for repairs or replacements, which may affect your bond.
By addressing end of lease security issues ahead of time, you’ll avoid unnecessary costs and ensure the landlord is satisfied with the security of the property.
2. Common End of Lease Security Issues and Solutions
2.1. Broken Intercom Systems in Apartments
In apartment complexes, intercom systems play a crucial role in security. A broken or malfunctioning intercom can lead to difficulties for visitors and delivery personnel trying to access the apartment. If the intercom system is not working, landlords may require it to be repaired or replaced, potentially at your expense.
How Broken Intercom Systems Affect Your Bond:
- Repair costs: If the intercom system is damaged or not functioning, the landlord may need to pay for repairs or a replacement, which could be deducted from your bond.
- Security concerns: A broken intercom system could raise safety concerns about the security of the building, especially if it prevents tenants from screening visitors or delivery personnel.
Solutions:
- Test the intercom system: Before your final inspection, test the intercom system to ensure it’s working properly. If it’s not working, report it to your landlord immediately.
- Repair or replace: If the intercom system is broken, ask your landlord if they would prefer a repair or replacement, and offer to cover the cost if necessary. If the damage occurred during your tenancy, notify the landlord to discuss how to address it.
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2.2. Lost or Unreturned Keys Leading to Lock Replacement Costs
If you’ve lost a key or failed to return all sets of keys, this could result in a lock replacement cost. Landlords often require the full set of keys to ensure the security of the property, and missing keys could compromise that security.
How Lost Keys Can Affect Your Bond:
- Lock replacements: If a key is lost or not returned, the landlord may need to replace the locks to maintain security, which is an added cost that could be deducted from your bond.
- Security concerns: If keys are not returned, it could mean the property is not properly secured, leaving it vulnerable to break-ins. This could lead to further complications and deductions.
Solutions:
- Return all keys: Ensure you return all sets of keys, including those for the front door, mailbox, garage, and any other areas provided at the start of the tenancy.
- Replace lost keys: If you’ve lost a key, arrange for a replacement before moving out. If necessary, contact a locksmith or ask the landlord if they can provide you with a new key.
- Inform your landlord: If you’ve lost a key or failed to return it, notify your landlord immediately and offer to pay for the cost of replacing the lock or re-keying the system.
2.3. Stiff or Jammed Deadbolts
A stiff or jammed deadbolt is another common end of lease security issue. Deadbolts are essential for securing doors, and a malfunctioning deadbolt can compromise the security of the property. If a deadbolt is difficult to turn or jammed, the landlord may need to repair or replace it, which could result in a deduction from your bond.
How Stiff or Jammed Deadbolts Can Affect Your Bond:
- Repair or replacement costs: A jammed deadbolt might need to be repaired or replaced, which can be a costly repair for the landlord to cover.
- Security risk: A malfunctioning deadbolt means that the property isn’t properly secured, and the landlord will likely need to fix the issue to ensure the safety of the premises.
Solutions:
- Lubricate the deadbolt: If the deadbolt is stiff, apply a lubricant like WD-40 to the keyhole and bolt mechanism. Turn the key several times to work the lubricant in and loosen the deadbolt.
- Fix any jams: If the deadbolt is jammed, try gently wiggling the key or using pliers to turn it. If it remains stuck, call a locksmith to repair or replace the deadbolt.
- Replace damaged deadbolts: If the deadbolt is damaged beyond repair, replace it with a matching lock and key, or offer to cover the cost of replacement.
3. Preventing End of Lease Security Issues During Your Tenancy
While it’s important to fix any security issues before moving out, preventing these problems during your tenancy can save you time and money. Here are some tips to avoid common end of lease security issues:
3.1. Take Care of Keys and Locks
- Keep track of keys: Store all keys safely and ensure you return all sets before your final inspection. If a key is lost, replace it immediately to avoid the need for lock replacement.
- Inspect locks periodically: Regularly check that locks are functioning properly. If you notice a stiff or jammed deadbolt, address the issue early before it becomes a problem.
3.2. Report Malfunctions Immediately
- Notify your landlord: If you notice any issues with the intercom system, locks, or deadbolts, inform your landlord immediately. Early communication can help avoid bigger issues later and ensure that repairs are made promptly.
- Handle minor issues quickly: If you notice small issues with the security features, such as a loose lock or a faulty intercom, fix them as soon as possible to prevent them from becoming major problems.
3.3. Regularly Check Security Features
- Test security systems: Regularly test security systems like locks, deadbolts, and intercoms to ensure they are functioning properly.
- Replace batteries in security devices: If there are any battery-powered security devices, like intercoms or alarm systems, make sure to replace the batteries regularly.
4. Why Professional End of Lease Cleaning Services Can Help
If you’re unsure how to handle end of lease security issues, hiring a professional end of lease cleaning service can take a lot of stress off your plate. Many professional cleaners are trained to identify and fix minor issues with locks, deadbolts, and intercom systems, ensuring everything is in working order before the inspection.
Benefits of Professional Help:
- Thorough security checks: Professionals can assess the security features of the property, ensuring all locks, intercoms, and deadbolts are functioning properly.
- Minor repairs: Many cleaning services also offer minor repair services, such as fixing jammed deadbolts or adjusting locks, saving you time and ensuring your property meets the landlord’s security standards.
- Bond-back guarantee: Many cleaning companies offer a bond-back guarantee, meaning if the landlord isn’t satisfied with the condition of the property, they will return to address any remaining issues, including security problems.
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Conclusion: Don’t Let Security Issues Impact Your Bond
End of lease security issues, such as broken intercom systems, lost keys, and jammed deadbolts, can be costly if not addressed before moving out. By taking the time to repair or replace these security features, you’ll improve the property’s safety and reduce the risk of bond deductions. If you’re unsure how to handle these issues, hiring a professional end of lease cleaning service can help ensure everything is in top condition.
Book your professional cleaning today and make sure your security features are working properly before your final inspection!
