End of lease is the ideal time to check window safety devices. The tenant is leaving, access is easier, condition issues can be documented and repairs can be arranged before the next occupant moves in.
Property managers should not assume that a window safety device is still working because it was installed at the beginning of the tenancy. Devices can be damaged, keys can be lost, residents can disengage restrictors and frames can loosen. A simple check before re-leasing can prevent a bigger problem later.
An end-of-lease window safety check should inspect child safety locks, restrictors, opening limitation, missing parts, damaged frames, obvious tampering and whether the device can still be operated as intended. If issues are found, the manager can organise rectification before the next lease starts.
For agencies managing multiple properties, consistent reporting is critical. A report should identify the property, the inspected windows, the device condition, defects, photos and recommended next steps. This makes it easier to brief the landlord and arrange repairs.
Haven Compliance provides end-of-lease window safety audits for Sydney and NSW property managers. Where repairs or replacements are required, Haven can support rectification through its partnership with Remsafe.
Book an end-of-lease window safety check before the next tenancy begins.
Why end-of-lease timing works
During an occupied tenancy, access can be difficult. During end-of-lease, the property manager usually has better control over access and can coordinate repairs before the next lease begins. This makes it a sensible time to check window safety devices.
If the check is skipped, the next tenant may move into a property with a missing key, broken restrictor or damaged frame that could have been identified earlier. A quick inspection can prevent this from becoming a complaint or urgent maintenance job later.
How to include this in agency workflow
Add a window safety device check to the vacate inspection workflow. If the agency manages many apartments, create a rule that any property with high-risk windows receives a Haven inspection before re-leasing or at scheduled intervals.
What landlords should know
Landlords usually want clear evidence, not technical confusion. A Haven report can show what was checked, what needs repair and what has been rectified. This helps the property manager explain the work clearly and obtain approval faster.
Suggested agency workflow
Add a simple trigger to the property management process: when a tenant gives notice, check whether the property has a current window safety record. If not, book an inspection during the vacancy window. If defects are found, arrange landlord approval and complete rectification before the next tenancy begins.
This workflow is easier than trying to organise access after a new tenant has moved in. It also gives the property manager a clean file note showing the issue was checked before re-leasing.
What to include in landlord communication
Use clear, practical language. Explain that the inspection checks child safety window locks and restrictors, identifies missing or damaged hardware and provides photo evidence. If repairs are needed, explain the risk, the proposed rectification and whether reinspection is recommended.
Why this helps agencies
Agencies that build window safety checks into their leasing process reduce last-minute maintenance pressure. They also create better records for landlords and tenants. Haven can support this with inspection, reporting and Remsafe-backed rectification support.
Add a window safety check to your next vacate inspection.
Internal agency policy suggestion
Agencies can also add a simple internal policy: if a managed apartment has high-risk windows and no current window safety record on file, the property manager should request an inspection before the next tenancy begins. This gives staff a clear trigger and removes guesswork from the leasing process. It also creates a better conversation with landlords because the recommendation is tied to a repeatable office standard rather than one property manager’s opinion.
