How Do Makegood Requirements Work and Who’s Responsible?
Think your lease ends when you hand over the keys? Think again. If you don’t handle your makegood requirements, your landlord might hand you a hefty bill—or worse, take it out of your bond.
Let’s cut through the confusion and look at what makegood really means, why it matters, and how to handle it without setting fire to your exit budget.
What Are Makegood Requirements?
Makegood requirements are the conditions in your commercial lease that dictate what the space should look like when you leave. They're not optional. And they're rarely cheap.
In plain English? If you installed it, painted it, drilled into it, or changed it—there’s a good chance you’re expected to undo it before you go.
Where Tenants Get Caught Out
Most tenants sign a lease and skim right over the makegood clause. It’s boring legal jargon... until move-out day arrives and you’re told you owe thousands to “restore the original condition.”
Common traps:
Thinking basic cleaning is enough
Assuming the landlord wants your fit-out
Leaving it too late to organise a defit crew
Examples of Makegood Requirements (That Cost Real Money)
Removing all partitions and joinery you installed—even if they’re “an improvement”
Restoring the paint to the exact colour it was when you moved in
Ripping up flooring that doesn’t match the original
Removing electrical, plumbing, and data cabling that wasn’t there before
Professional commercial cleaning (not just vacuuming and Windex)
If it wasn’t in the space when you arrived, you’ll probably be expected to remove it. And “wear and tear” won’t save you if it’s not clearly defined in your lease.
How to Stay Ahead of Makegood Requirements
Here’s what smart tenants do:
Get a “before” condition report when you move in. Photos. Details. Everything.
Clarify the clause before signing the lease—vague wording can cost you later.
Plan your exit early. Don’t wait until the last 2 weeks of your lease to start stripping the place out.
Negotiate a cash payout with your landlord if you’d rather not do the physical work.
Not All Makegood Clauses Are Created Equal
Some landlords expect a full "base build" restoration—basically, a white box. Others are more flexible and just want the place clean and tidy. But unless you’ve got it in writing, assume the worst-case scenario.
Final Word: Don’t Wing It
Makegood requirements aren’t a formality. They’re legally enforceable, financially painful, and often misunderstood.
If you're unsure what your obligations are—or need the whole thing handled start to finish—get a professional defit crew involved early. The right team can save you days of work and thousands in post-lease penalties.
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