Moving out of an office, shop or industrial unit? Reinstatement is the last big job of your tenancy, and it decides whether you get your security deposit back in full. Here's a simple checklist to keep your handover smooth and on time.
Your 7-step reinstatement checklist
Read your tenancy agreement first
3–4 months before. Look for the reinstatement clause. It tells you what condition the unit must be returned in, whether that's bare shell or the original handover condition, and how much notice you need to give. If anything is unclear, ask your landlord or managing agent in writing.
Request the original handover drawings
Your landlord or building management should have the floor plan and specifications from when you moved in. This becomes the reference for what needs to be removed, repaired or restored.
Arrange a site assessment early
2–3 months before. Get a contractor to walk through the unit with you. A good contractor will flag hidden work you might miss, such as concealed wiring, ceiling patches or floor damage under carpets, so there are no surprises later.
Get an itemised quotation
Avoid lump-sum quotes. An itemised quote shows exactly what's included (dismantling, hacking, disposal, electrical termination, making good and painting), so you can compare fairly and avoid add-on charges halfway through.
Check building management requirements
Most buildings require work permits, insurance documents and approved working hours before works can start. Factor this into your timeline, as approvals can take one to two weeks.
Plan the works around your lease-end date
Leave a buffer of at least one to two weeks before your handover date for inspection and any touch-ups. Rushing at the last minute is the most common cause of failed inspections.
Do a joint inspection before handover
Walk the unit with your contractor, then with your landlord. Take photos of the completed works as a record.
Tip: Start the process early. Contractors, building approvals and inspections all take time, and a late start is the main reason handovers slip past the lease-end date.
Need help with your reinstatement?
Speed Trust handles everything from dismantling and hacking to electrical termination and final touch-ups, with a detailed proposal within 24 hours of site assessment.
