When you move into a rental property, you’ll receive several important tenancy documents. However, one stands above the rest—the Entry Condition Report (Form 1a).
This document records the condition of the property on the day your tenancy begins. At the end of your tenancy, it will be compared with the Exit Condition Report to determine whether the property has been returned in substantially the same condition, allowing for fair wear and tear.
For both tenants and property owners, this report provides an important record that helps minimise disputes and ensures everyone has a clear understanding of the property’s condition from day one.
What Is an Entry Condition Report?
An Entry Condition Report is a detailed record of your rental property’s condition at the beginning of your tenancy.
Before you move in, your property manager completes the report by documenting the condition of each room and the property’s fixtures, fittings, and surfaces.
Once you receive the report, you have the opportunity to review it carefully and add your own comments if necessary.
This process helps ensure there is an accurate record of the property’s condition before your tenancy officially begins.
You Have Seven Days to Complete It
After your tenancy starts, you have seven days to inspect the property and return your completed Entry Condition Report.
Take your time and inspect every area of the home, including:
- Every room.
- Walls and ceilings.
- Floors and skirting boards.
- Doors and cupboards.
- Windows and locks.
- Light fittings.
- Ceiling fans.
- Air conditioners.
- Appliances.
- Taps and plumbing fixtures.
The more thorough your inspection, the better protected you’ll be at the end of your tenancy.
What Should You Look For?
Remember that this is a condition report, not a cleaning inspection.
Your focus should be on recording the property’s overall condition and noting any existing issues, such as:
- Scratches.
- Chips.
- Dents.
- Marks on walls.
- Worn flooring.
- Existing damage.
- General wear and tear already present before you moved in.
If you notice anything that wasn’t recorded by your property manager, simply add your own comments to the report.
Everyone can occasionally miss small details, so your inspection is an important part of the process.
Take Photos as You Complete Your Inspection
Although photographs aren’t usually mandatory, they’re highly recommended.
Taking clear photos of each room provides an additional record of the property’s condition when your tenancy begins.
Photos can help:
- Support your comments on the report.
- Reduce misunderstandings later.
- Provide useful evidence if questions arise at the end of your tenancy.
It’s a simple step that can offer valuable peace of mind.
Report Maintenance Separately
Sometimes you’ll notice maintenance issues while completing your Entry Condition Report.
If this happens, don’t rely on the report itself to request repairs.
Instead, report maintenance separately by emailing your property manager or using your agency’s maintenance reporting process.
Think of it this way:
- Entry Condition Report = records the property’s condition.
- Maintenance Request = asks for repairs to be completed.
Keeping these processes separate helps ensure repairs are scheduled promptly while maintaining an accurate record of the property’s condition.
Return Your Report on Time
Once you’ve completed your inspection:
- Sign the report.
- Add any comments.
- Return it to your property manager within seven days.
If the report isn’t returned within the required timeframe, the original report prepared at the beginning of the tenancy may become the official record of the property’s condition.
Returning your report on time helps protect your interests throughout the tenancy.
Keep a Copy for the End of Your Tenancy
After submitting your Entry Condition Report, keep a copy with your tenancy documents.
When it’s time to move out, you’ll complete an Exit Condition Report, and having your original report available makes it much easier to compare the property’s condition.
Many tenants are grateful they kept a copy when preparing for their final inspection.
Final Thoughts
Completing your Entry Condition Report carefully is one of the best ways to protect yourself throughout your tenancy.
By taking the time to inspect the property thoroughly, recording any existing wear or damage, returning the report within seven days, and keeping a copy for your records, you’ll help create a clear and accurate record that benefits both you and the property owner.
If you’re ever unsure about something you’ve found during your inspection, contact your property manager. They’re there to help answer your questions and ensure your tenancy gets off to the best possible start.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Entry Condition Report?
An Entry Condition Report (Form 1a) records the condition of a rental property at the beginning of a tenancy. It provides a reference point that will later be compared with the Exit Condition Report when the tenancy ends.
How long do I have to complete my Entry Condition Report?
You generally have seven days from the start of your tenancy to inspect the property, add your comments, sign the report, and return it to your property manager.
Should I take photos during my inspection?
Yes. While photographs may not be mandatory, they provide valuable evidence of the property’s condition at the beginning of your tenancy and can help prevent misunderstandings later.
What if I find maintenance issues?
Maintenance concerns should be reported separately through your property’s maintenance reporting process or by contacting your property manager directly. The Entry Condition Report records condition—it isn’t a maintenance request.
Why should I keep a copy of my report?
Keeping a copy makes it much easier to complete your Exit Condition Report and compare the property’s condition when your tenancy comes to an end.
Your Next Move
Have questions while completing your Entry Condition Report? Contact the Real Estate HQ team as soon as possible. We’re here to help you understand the process, answer your questions, and ensure your tenancy starts on the right foot.
