Kitchen cleaning and appliance maintenance
The kitchen is often the most scrutinised room during a final inspection due to the accumulation of grease and food residue. You must clean the oven thoroughly, including the racks, glass door, and the floor underneath the appliance if it is freestanding. Rangehood filters should be soaked in degreaser to remove sticky buildup, and the stovetop must be free of burnt-on food. Dishwashers require the filter to be cleared and the door seals wiped down to remove mould or grime.
Wipe out the inside of all cupboards and drawers, ensuring that crumbs and dust are removed from the corners. Benchtops should be cleaned with non-abrasive sprays to avoid scratching the surfaces, and the sink and taps should be polished to remove water spots and lime scale. If you have a walk-in pantry, ensure the floor and all shelving are wiped down. These tasks are essential because property managers will often run a finger along surfaces to check for hidden grease.
Bathroom and laundry sanitation standards
Bathrooms are prone to mould and soap scum, both of which are common triggers for bond deductions. Scrub all wall tiles and grout lines, paying close attention to the base of the shower and around the bathtub. Glass shower screens should be treated with a calcium remover to eliminate streaks and cloudiness. Toilets must be cleaned inside and out, including the S-bend and the base of the pedestal where dust often collects.
Check that the exhaust fan is free from dust buildup, as a blocked fan can be flagged as a fire hazard or a maintenance issue. Vanities and medicine cabinets must be emptied and wiped clean, and mirrors should be polished with a lint-free cloth. Ensure the drains are clear of hair and debris to prevent slow drainage, which could be noted on the exit report. A clean, dry bathroom suggests the property has been well-maintained throughout the tenancy.
Walls floors and overhead fixtures
Walls and ceilings are frequently overlooked but can harbour scuff marks, dust, and cobwebs. Walk through every room and spot-clean marks with a damp cloth or a specialised wall cleaning sponge, taking care not to remove the paint. Remove cobwebs from corners and cornices using a long-handled duster or vacuum attachment. Skirting boards should be wiped down in every room, as they quickly accumulate a visible layer of grey dust that is easily spotted during inspections.
Light fittings and ceiling fans are high-priority items that often require a ladder to reach. Carefully wipe the blades of all fans and ensure light globes are functioning; most residential leases require tenants to replace any blown bulbs before handing back the keys. Window tracks and sliding door channels are notorious for trapping dirt and dead insects, so use a vacuum crevice tool followed by a damp cloth to ensure they are completely clear.
Floor care and professional cleaning costs
The condition of the flooring is a primary concern for landlords, especially regarding carpets and hardwood. All hard floors should be swept and mopped with an appropriate cleaner that does not leave a filmy residue. For carpets, a thorough vacuuming is the minimum requirement. If there are visible stains or if you have kept pets, many tenancy agreements will include a clause suggesting or requiring professional steam cleaning or dry cleaning to restore the fibres.
If you choose to hire professionals, the cost for a standard three-bedroom house generally ranges from 300 to 600 dollars, depending on the level of service and the region. Always confirm current market rates with local providers as prices fluctuate based on demand and petrol costs. Keeping your receipts is vital, as you may need to provide proof of professional service to the landlord or property manager to satisfy the terms of your specific rental agreement.
Outdoor areas and garden maintenance
If your rental property includes a garden, balcony, or patio, these areas must be returned to the state described in the initial condition report. Mow the lawns, trim the edges, and remove any weeds from garden beds or between paving stones. Sweep all hard outdoor surfaces and remove any oil stains from the driveway or garage floor using a heavy-duty degreaser. If you have used a charcoal barbecue, ensure the area surrounding it is free from soot and grease.
Pools and spas require specific attention, usually involving a water test and the cleaning of filters and skimmer baskets. Ensure all rubbish bins are emptied and washed out, then placed in the designated area for collection. For owners who choose to sell their property or list it for rent on Home24, maintaining high curb appeal starts with these basic outdoor cleaning tasks. A tidy exterior creates a positive first impression for the final inspection and the next occupants.
Final inspection and bond lodgement process
The transition from tenant to former tenant involves more than just cleaning; it requires a formal handover of the property. Once the cleaning is finished, compare the current state of the home against the entry condition report you signed at the start of the lease. Take clear, high-resolution photographs of every room, including the inside of the oven and the back of cupboards, to serve as evidence in case a dispute arises regarding the return of your bond.
Return all sets of keys, including any copies you made, to the property manager by the deadline specified in your notice to vacate. You should then apply for your bond refund through the relevant state authority, such as the RBO in New South Wales or the RTBA in Victoria. Most states now allow tenants to apply for their bond online independently. If the landlord does not lodge a claim within a certain timeframe, the bond is usually paid out to the tenant automatically.