The garage is often one of the most overlooked areas when preparing for the final inspection at the end of your lease. However, garage damage bond deduction can be a significant issue if it’s not properly addressed before you move out. Whether it’s rust stains on the floor, broken roller doors, or damaged shelving units, landlords expect garages and storage areas to be in the same condition as when you moved in. Failing to fix these issues can lead to costly repairs that will be deducted from your bond.

In this blog, we’ll highlight common garage-related damages and provide solutions to address them, helping you avoid unnecessary deductions and ensure a smooth bond return.

1. Why Garage Damage Matters for Your Bond

The garage is an essential part of the property and can impact your bond refund significantly. Even though it’s a functional space rather than a living area, it’s still part of the landlord’s expectations. If the garage is left in disrepair, landlords may charge you for repairs or replacement. This can result in a garage damage bond deduction that could easily have been avoided with a little attention.

Common Garage Issues That Can Lead to Bond Deductions:

• Rust stains: Rust stains on the floor or walls, especially from vehicles or stored items, are a common problem in garages.

• Broken roller doors: A malfunctioning garage door can be a security risk and will likely need to be fixed or replaced.

• Missing or damaged shelving units: If shelving units are damaged or missing, landlords may deduct repair costs from your bond.
  

2. Common Garage Damage Issues and Solutions

2.1. Rust Stains on Garage Floors

Rust stains on the garage floor are common, especially if you park a vehicle in the garage or store metal items. These stains can be difficult to remove, and if left untreated, they can make the floor look neglected and unkempt, which could lead to garage damage bond deductions.

How Rust Stains Can Affect Your Bond:

• Aesthetic damage: Rust stains can make the garage floor look unsightly, affecting the overall appeal of the property.

• Damage to flooring: If the rust has seeped into the concrete, it may cause permanent staining, which could require professional cleaning or replacement.
  

Solutions:

• Clean with a rust remover: Use a rust remover specifically designed for concrete or garage floors. Apply the cleaner to the affected areas and follow the instructions for best results.

• DIY solution: If you prefer a more natural approach, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water or vinegar to scrub the rust stains. Apply the mixture, let it sit, then scrub the stain with a stiff brush.

• Sealing the floor: After cleaning, consider applying a concrete sealer to prevent future stains and make the floor easier to clean in the future.
  

2.2. Broken Roller Doors or Remote Control Malfunctions

A broken roller door or malfunctioning remote control is a common garage damage bond deduction. Whether it’s the door mechanism that’s broken, the tracks that are misaligned, or the remote control that isn’t functioning, a malfunctioning garage door can be a major inconvenience and a security risk.

How Broken Roller Doors Can Affect Your Bond:

• Costly repairs: If the roller door or motor is broken, the landlord may need to replace the entire mechanism, which can be expensive.

• Security concerns: A broken garage door compromises the security of the property and may be flagged during the inspection as a priority repair.
  

Solutions:

• Check the remote control: Start by replacing the batteries in the remote control. If that doesn’t work, check the remote’s frequency or see if the connection between the remote and the door opener needs to be reset.

• Inspect the tracks and door mechanism: Check for misaligned tracks, blocked rollers, or any obstructions that may be preventing the door from functioning properly. If the door is still difficult to open or close, try lubricating the tracks with a silicone-based lubricant.

• Call a professional: If the problem persists or is more complex, contact a garage door technician to fix the door mechanism. They can adjust the alignment or replace parts if needed.
  

2.3. Damaged or Missing Shelving Units

Shelving units in the garage provide crucial storage space. If the shelving units are broken, damaged, or missing entirely, landlords may ask for them to be repaired or replaced. This could lead to bond deductions to cover the repair or replacement costs.

How Damaged or Missing Shelving Can Affect Your Bond:

• Unusable space: If shelving is missing or damaged, the garage may not be as functional as it was when you moved in, which could affect the overall condition of the property.

• Replacement costs: If the shelving units are too damaged to repair, the landlord may need to replace them, leading to a deduction from your bond.
  

Solutions:

• Fix broken shelving: If the shelves are only slightly damaged, you can repair them by tightening screws or replacing any broken brackets. Use a level to ensure that the shelves are aligned properly.

• Replace damaged shelves: If the shelves are broken beyond repair, purchase replacement units from a hardware store. Make sure they match the existing shelves in size and style.

• Reinstall missing shelves: If you’ve removed any shelving units during your tenancy, reinstall them before the inspection. You can either reassemble the original shelves or install new ones that match the style and size of the existing units.
  

3. Why Professional Help Can Be Beneficial for Garage Repairs

If you’re not confident in handling end of lease cleaning sydney and garage issues yourself, hiring a professional cleaning service or handyman can ensure that everything is in perfect condition before your final inspection.

Benefits of Professional Help:

• Expert repairs: A professional handyman can fix any mechanical issues with the garage door, including misalignments, broken rollers, and faulty remotes.

• Thorough cleaning: Professionals can handle tough rust stains and deep clean the garage floor, ensuring that no damage is left behind.

• Convenience: Hiring a professional saves you time and effort, allowing you to focus on other tasks related to your move.
  

Many end-of-lease cleaning services offer garage and storage area cleaning and repairs, ensuring that everything is in top condition when you hand the keys back to the landlord.

4. Preventing Garage Damage During Your Tenancy

While it’s important to address garage damage bond deduction issues before moving out, preventing them during your tenancy can save you time and money in the long run. Here are some tips for maintaining the garage in good condition:

4.1. Avoid Overloading Shelves

• Distribute weight evenly: Make sure that items on your shelves are evenly distributed to prevent damage. Don’t overload shelves, especially if they’re not designed to hold heavy items.
  

4.2. Regular Garage Door Maintenance

• Lubricate tracks: Regularly lubricate the tracks and rollers of the garage door to prevent stiff movement and rust buildup.

• Inspect for damage: Periodically inspect the garage door for misalignments, rust, or other issues that could cause problems down the line.
  

5. Conclusion: Fix Garage Issues Before Your Final Inspection

Garage damage bond deduction issues like rust stains, broken roller doors, and damaged shelving can lead to unnecessary costs if not addressed before moving out. By taking the time to fix these issues—whether it’s cleaning, repairing, or replacing damaged items—you can ensure that your garage is in top condition for the final inspection.

If you’re unsure about handling repairs on your own, hiring a professional cleaning service or handyman can provide peace of mind and ensure that you get your full bond back.

Book your professional cleaning today and make sure your garage is ready for inspection!