Exit Cleaning Checklist for Queensland Renters: How To Maximize Your Bond Refund – Leaving an apartment can be difficult, particularly since the bulk of your funds may be stuck in the form of the bond in the rented accommodation. In Queensland, one of the best ways to get back as much money from the bond as possible would be to leave the apartment in the same condition as it was on the day you first entered the premises, allowing for reasonable wear and tear. According to the Queensland RTA, one should do a clean-up and check the condition of the apartment against the entry condition report.
Using an exit cleaning checklist for Queensland renters will ensure you avoid the common mistakes, please the property manager, and hence increase the chances of getting your bond refunded.
Why Exit Cleaning is Important
Exit cleaning is important because many disputes regarding the bond are related to leaving the property dirty, messy, with rubbish or damage that could have been done away with before the last inspection. According to the Queensland guidelines, a tenant must hand back the property in the same condition in which they received it on their day of occupancy, except for reasonable wear and tear. Effective cleaning and documentation can be useful if any dispute ever arises regarding bond deductions.
Exit Cleaning Checklist Completion
1. Kitchen Cleaning
The kitchen is one of the most frequently checked parts during the process of exit inspection.
Checklist:
- Clean oven, stove, rangehood, and filters
- Grease removal from splashbacks and walls
- Wipe all cabinets, shelves, and drawers from inside and outside
- Clean sinks, taps, and drains
- Sanitize countertops and benchtops
- Empty and clean the dishwasher
- Mop and disinfect the floor
2. Bathroom Cleaning
The bathroom often collects soap scum, mould, and limescale.
Checklist:
- Scrub shower screens, tiles, and grout
- Mould removal and sanitation
- Thoroughly clean the toilet
- Polish mirrors and glasses
- Wipe vanity units and cupboards
- Clean exhaust fans and vents
- Sanitize sinks and taps
3. Living Areas and Bedrooms
Dust and dirt can readily accumulate in forgotten spots.
Checklist:
- Dust baseboards and window sills
- Clean wardrobes and shelving units
- Clean out cobwebs on ceilings and corners
- Vacuum carpeting thoroughly
- Mop hard flooring
- Clean doors, door handles, and light switches
- Clean ceiling fans and light fixtures
4. Windows and Glass
It is common for property managers to scrutinize windows.
Checklist:
- Clean windows inside and outside wherever feasible
- Clean any marks off the glass doors
- Clean window tracks and frames
- Dust blinds and curtains
5. Outdoor Areas
Make sure that the exterior areas are not overlooked when moving out.
Checklist:
- Cut the grass and tidy up around the edge
- Rid garden beds of weeds
- Sweep patios, balconies, and walkways
- Clear away any rubbish and green waste
- Outdoor furniture cleaning, if part of the tenancy
6. Air Conditioning and Ventilation
These two elements are often ignored by many tenants.
Checklist:
- Ensure you clean the air-conditioner filters
- Dust the vents and exhaust fans
- Remove visible dirt and other debris
7. Preparing for Final Property Inspection
Before handing over the keys:
- Compare the property against your entry condition report
- Take dated pictures of each room
- Ensure that all personal possessions have been cleared
- Ensure all the keys, remotes, and access cards have been returned
- Fill out the Exit Condition Report
The RTA recommends tenants use photos of the property and the exit condition report when claiming their bond back, should any disagreements arise.
Top Tips to Ensure Your Bond Refund
Start Early
Do not wait till the last minute. If you start about a week or two ahead of moving out, it will give you enough time to deal with difficult places during the inspection process.
Use the Entry Condition Report
This is probably your best defense in protecting your bond. Look at it carefully and ensure that the property is left in roughly the same state.
Take Plenty of Photos
Many Queensland renters advise taking comprehensive pictures at both the beginning and end of tenancy as proof.
Repair Minor Damage
Make sure you repair minor damage, including picture hook holes, loose fixtures, or broken screens, before the final inspection if possible.
Think About Professional Bond Cleaning
Even though professional bond cleaning is not mandated by Queensland legislation for all tenancies, most Queenslanders opt to hire professional bond cleaners to reach the best level of cleanliness.
Why Bonds May Be Partially Refunded
Do not make these common mistakes:
- Dirt and grime in ovens and kitchen appliances
- Unclean bathrooms
- Damaged or dirty carpets
- Unattended rubbish removal
- Grubby windows and window tracks
- Overgrown grass and garden
- Failing to prove the condition of the property
These are some of the things that could prevent you from getting a total refund on your bond deposit.
Conclusion
A complete exit cleaning is what can mean the difference between receiving the bond back and getting deductions. Using a checklist, noting the state of the property, and dealing with all cleaning-related issues appropriately will help Queensland tenants get out of the property on a high note and with their bond.
For professional assistance, The Bond Cleaning Brisbane provides reliable bond cleaning services tailored for Queensland tenants who want to get the most out of their bonds. Their professionals offer expert bond cleaning solutions in Brisbane that tenants need to pass inspections.
FAQs
Is professional bond cleaning required in Queensland?
No, there are no laws that make professional bond cleaning mandatory in Queensland. Tenants should just return the property in a clean condition similar to the condition of the property at the beginning of the tenancy, excluding fair wear and tear.
What constitutes fair wear and tear?
Fair wear and tear is deterioration caused by the normal effects of use over time. Dirtiness, lack of care, neglect, or damage caused by the tenant does not constitute fair wear and tear.
Do I need to take pictures before I leave?
Absolutely. Pictures can be used as evidence of the state of the property and can settle any disputes about your bond.
What documents do I need to have when leaving?
The documents you need to have include an Entry Condition Report, an Exit Condition Report, a receipt for the cleaning, receipts for repairs, and pictures.
When do I claim my bond back?
Claim your bond back after the end of the tenancy and completion of the handover process.
