End of lease pest control: a guide for Sydney renters

When you're packing up a rental, pest control can be easy to forget until the agent asks for a receipt. Whether you need a treatment depends on your lease, your situation and whether pests have become a problem while you've lived there.

Check your lease first

Read your residential tenancy agreement for any clause about pest control or pets. Requirements are not the same for every tenancy, so if you're unsure what applies to you, check the guidance from NSW Fair Trading or ask your property manager to point to the clause they are relying on. Get any agreement in writing.

When a treatment is commonly needed

• You've had a dog or cat at the property, and the lease asks for flea treatment when you leave.
• Pests such as cockroaches, ants or fleas have become a problem during your tenancy.
• Your property manager has asked for a professional treatment and invoice as part of the final inspection.

Timing it right

Book the treatment after you've moved your belongings out and finished the clean, but before the final inspection. An empty property is quicker to treat properly, because the technician can reach skirting boards, cupboards and corners. Ask for a dated invoice that shows the address and the treatment done, as most agents will want a copy.

Moving-out checklist

• Check the pest control and pet clauses in your lease.
• Book the treatment for after the final clean.
• Vacuum carpets and empty the vacuum bag or bin outside before a flea treatment.
• Keep pets away from the property on treatment day.
• Ask for an invoice showing the address, date and treatment.
• Send a copy to your property manager with your other end-of-lease documents.

Want a professional to take a look? Call CITY WIDE on 1300 888 749 or request a free quote below. We look after homes and businesses across Sydney's Eastern Suburbs, Inner City and North West.