A renter’s guide to Property Condition Report

The property condition report PCR is an essential record that helps protect both tenants and property owners throughout the tenancy.

When moving into a rental property, tenants have several important responsibilities in the first few days of the tenancy. One of the most significant is completing the property condition report.

While it may seem like routine paperwork, the property condition report is an essential record that helps protect both tenants and property owners throughout the tenancy.

The tenant must return one copy of the completed property condition report to the lessor or the property manager within 7 days after receiving it. The tenant should keep the second copy of the property condition report.

Why property condition reports matter

The property condition report documents the state of the property at the beginning of the tenancy, including fixtures, fittings and any existing damage.

It is used at the end of the tenancy to compare the property’s condition and determine whether any issues go beyond fair wear and tear.

A clear and detailed report can help:

Reduce misunderstandings between tenants and property managers
Provide evidence if disputes arise
Support a fair bond outcome at the end of the tenancy

Taking the time to complete the report thoroughly is one of the simplest ways tenants can safeguard their interests.

What tenants should photograph

Photographs are a valuable supplement to the written report. Tenants are encouraged to take clear, dated images of the property at the start of the tenancy, particularly of any pre-existing issues.

Key areas to photograph include:

Walls, ceilings and skirting boards
Carpets, floorboards and tiles
Doors, windows, blinds and flyscreens
Kitchen appliances and benchtops
Bathrooms, including grout, taps and exhaust fans
Outdoor areas such as fences, gardens, patios and sheds

Wide-angle photos of each room, along with close-ups of damage, provide the most useful record.

Writing clear and accurate notes

When completing the condition report, tenants should ensure comments are specific, factual and easy to understand.

Rather than general statements, it is better to record precise observations with images, such as:

“Scratch on bedroom door near handle”
“Stain on carpet in living room corner”
“Crack in bathroom tile above vanity”
“Oven tray missing at start of tenancy”

Tenants should avoid overstating issues but ensure all existing marks, wear or faults are noted.

Keeping good records

Once completed, tenants should return the property condition report to the property manager within the required timeframe and retain a copy for their own records.

It is also recommended tenants keep:

A digital folder of photos taken at the start of the tenancy
Copies of any maintenance requests during the tenancy
Follow the property managers guidance in communication usually via email
Maintaining good records can be particularly helpful when vacating the property.

A valuable step for a smoother tenancy

The property condition report is an important document that supports transparency and fairness throughout the rental process.

By completing it carefully, providing supporting photographs and keeping clear records, tenants can help ensure a smoother tenancy and minimise potential disputes at the end of the lease.