You’ve just spent an exhausting weekend moving boxes, farewell-ing neighbours, and finally closing the door on your rental property for the last time. You’re knackered, your muscles ache, and all you want to do is put your feet up in your new place. Then it hits you. That nagging worry about whether you’ll see your security deposit again. You know, that tidy sum of money (anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 for most of us) currently sitting in your landlord’s account?
We’ve all been there. That moment of dread when you remember the small coffee stain on the carpet or that stubborn shower mould you never quite conquered. Will these minor imperfections cost you hundreds of dollars?
It’s worth putting in the effort to do this right. And it doesn’t have to be a nightmare! At 365 Cleaners, we’ve helped thousands of frazzled, time-poor homeowners reclaim their security deposits, and we’re about to share every insider trick in our professional cleaning arsenal.
Understanding Your Lease Agreement and Legal Rights
Before we get into the crux of the matter, it’s essential to understand exactly what’s expected of you according to your lease agreement and Australian tenancy laws.
What Does Your Lease Actually Require?
Your tenancy agreement should specify the condition in which you need to return the property. Most leases in Australia will require you to leave the property in the same condition as when you moved in, allowing for “fair wear and tear.“
Fair wear and tear refers to the natural deterioration that occurs over time with normal use of the property. This might include slight carpet wear in high-traffic areas, minor scuff marks on walls, or slight fading of curtains due to sunlight. Your landlord cannot withhold your deposit for these issues.
Document the Property’s Initial Condition
When you first moved in, you should have completed an entry condition report with detailed notes and photographs. This documentation is your best defence against unfair deductions from your security deposit.
If you don’t have this documentation, don’t panic. Start by checking your email for any photos you might have taken when you moved in or look through your records for the initial condition report.
Know Your State-Specific Rights
Tenancy laws vary across Australian states and territories. For example:
- In New South Wales, landlords must lodge the bond with NSW Fair Trading, and claims against the bond must follow a specific process.
- Victorian landlords must lodge bonds with the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA).
- In Queensland, the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) manages bond lodgements.
Familiarise yourself with your state’s specific regulations by visiting the relevant tenancy authority website. Understanding these laws can protect you from illegal or unfair deductions.
If you are moving out of a rental property and want to ensure you get your bond back, 365 Cleaners offers high-quality bond cleaning services. Our experienced team is here to make your move-out process stress-free and to help you meet all the required cleaning standards. Give us a call today and request a free quote!
Planning Your End-of-Lease Cleaning
Successful end-of-lease cleaning begins with proper planning. Start by creating a comprehensive checklist and timeline.
Give Yourself Plenty of Time
Don’t leave your cleaning to the last minute. Ideally, you should begin the process at least two weeks before your moving date, particularly for tasks like:
- Booking professional cleaners (if required)
- Arranging carpet cleaning
- Addressing any repairs
- Dealing with hard-to-remove stains or odours
Create a Room-by-Room Checklist
Breaking down your cleaning tasks by room makes the process more manageable. A thorough checklist should include often-overlooked areas that landlords and property managers typically inspect closely.
Decide: DIY or Professional Cleaning?
While a DIY approach might save money, professional end-of-lease cleaning offers several advantages:
- Professional cleaners know exactly what property managers look for
- They have specialised equipment for deep cleaning
- Most reputable services offer a “bond back guarantee”
- The cost of professional cleaning might be less than the amount you could lose from your deposit
If your lease specifies professional cleaning (particularly for carpets), hiring professionals might be a requirement rather than an option.
Require move out cleaning? Rely on 365 Cleaners’ police-vetted specialists, who bring their expertise and eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaning solutions to create spotless, safe, and sustainable spaces.
The Ultimate End-of-Lease Cleaning Guide: Room by Room
Let’s break down exactly what needs to be cleaned in each area of your home to satisfy even the most demanding property manager.
Kitchen Cleaning Masterclass
The kitchen is often the most challenging area to clean and the one property managers scrutinise most closely.
Oven and Stovetop
- Remove and soak oven racks, trays, and stovetop elements in hot soapy water
- Apply an appropriate oven cleaner to remove grease and burnt-on food
- Don’t forget to clean behind and underneath the stove if possible
- Clean the rangehood and filters thoroughly
- Wipe down all exterior surfaces
Cupboards and Drawers
- Empty completely and remove any shelf liners
- Clean interior surfaces with an appropriate cleaner
- Pay special attention to any food spills or crumbs
- Wipe down all exterior surfaces, including handles
Sink and Taps
- Remove any food debris from the drain
- Clean and polish the sink basin
- Remove water spots and limescale from taps
- Ensure the drain is running freely
Refrigerator (if included in your lease)
- Defrost freezer completely
- Clean all shelves and drawers
- Wipe down interior walls
- Don’t forget to clean the rubber door seals
- Pull out and clean underneath if possible
Dishwasher (if included)
- Remove and clean filters
- Run an empty cycle with a dishwasher cleaner
- Wipe down the door, gasket, and exterior
Bathroom Deep Clean
Bathrooms require special attention to remove soap scum, mould, and limescale.
Shower and Bathtub
- Remove and clean showerhead to eliminate mineral buildup
- Clean shower screens/curtains thoroughly
- Remove soap scum and mildew from tiles and grout
- Don’t forget to clean the drain
Toilet
- Clean bowl thoroughly with disinfectant
- Wipe down exterior surfaces, including the often-forgotten base and behind the toilet
- Clean the seat on both sides
- Ensure the flush mechanism works properly
Sink and Vanity
- Clean and polish the basin
- Remove limescale from taps
- Clean mirror with streak-free glass cleaner
- Wipe down all vanity surfaces
- Clean inside medicine cabinets or drawers
Tiles and Grout
- Remove any mould or mildew with an appropriate cleaner
- Pay special attention to grout lines
- Consider regrouting if stains are persistent
Living Areas and Bedrooms
While these areas might seem simpler, they require thorough attention as well.
Walls and Skirting Boards
- Remove all hooks, nails, and adhesives
- Fill holes if required by your lease
- Wash walls to remove marks (test in an inconspicuous area first)
- Dust and wipe skirting boards
Windows and Window Coverings
- Clean glass inside and out where accessible
- Vacuum blinds or wash curtains according to care instructions
- Clean windowsills and tracks
Carpets and Flooring
- Vacuum carpets thoroughly
- Arrange professional carpet cleaning if required by your lease
- Mop hard floors with appropriate cleaners
- Pay special attention to corners and edges
Did you know that our move-out cleaning services include comprehensive cleaning tasks like oven cleaning, range hood degreasing, and end of lease carpet cleaning?
Light Fixtures and Ceiling Fans
- Remove light covers to clean dust and insects
- Replace any blown light bulbs
- Dust ceiling fans on all surfaces
General Areas and Often Forgotten Spots
Don’t overlook these commonly missed areas:
- Air conditioning filters and vents
- Inside and on top of cupboards
- Door handles and frames
- Power points and light switches
- Cobwebs in corners and on ceilings
- Balcony or outdoor areas
- Garage or storage areas
Addressing Damage Beyond Normal Wear and Tear
Despite your best efforts, you might have caused some damage that goes beyond normal wear and tear. It’s better to address these issues proactively rather than having them deducted from your deposit.
What Constitutes Damage?
Examples of damage that you might be responsible for include:
- Large holes in walls (beyond small nail holes)
- Broken windows or fixtures
- Pet damage like scratched floors or stained carpets
- Unauthorised modifications
- Stains on carpets or curtains
On the lookout for the best carpet steam cleaning? Our cleaners will apply stain removal solutions on the affected spots on the carpets and rugs, followed by which a special steam cleaning agent is used to loosen up the hard-to-remove dirt and grime. We will leave the carpet for about 10-15 minutes.
We employ industrial hot water extraction machines to suck out thick dirt and tough stains from the deep of the carpets, leaving behind a spic and span look.
Repair Options
For minor damage, you have several options:
- DIY repairs – Only attempt if you have the skills to make professional-quality repairs
- Hire professionals – Often more cost-effective than losing your deposit
- Negotiate with your landlord – Sometimes, they’ll accept a reasonable payment instead of making deductions from your deposit
Remember to keep receipts for any repairs or professional cleaning services you arrange.
Searching for end of lease cleaning in Brisbane or Perth? At 365 Cleaners, we know exactly what landlords and property managers expect when you move out. Our team is trained to meet these high standards, making sure every part of your rental is properly cleaned.
The Final Inspection
The final inspection is your last opportunity to ensure everything is in order before handing over the keys.
Before the Inspection
- Schedule the inspection for daylight hours when cleaning results are most visible
- Make sure all cleaning is complete at least 24 hours before the inspection
- Take detailed photographs of the cleaned property as evidence
- Prepare digital or printed copies of cleaning receipts
During the Inspection
- Attend the inspection in person if possible
- Bring your initial condition report for comparison
- Take notes of any issues raised
- Ask for specific details about any areas deemed unsatisfactory
If Issues Are Identified
If the property manager identifies areas that need additional cleaning:
- Ask for a detailed list in writing
- Request reasonable time to address the issues
- Schedule a follow-up inspection
- Consider requesting specific cleaning requirements to avoid further back-and-forth
Need end-of-lease cleaning in Melbourne, Sydney, or Adelaide? Our team specialises in comprehensive, hard-to-do cleaning tasks, such as grout cleaning, garage cleaning, and pressure cleaning. Whether it’s removing surface dust from hard-to-reach spots or ensuring a gleaming shower recess, our attention to detail leaves nothing to chance. We even clean exhaust fans and tackle dirt in window tracks to ensure every part of your rental property is immaculate.
Disputing Unfair Deductions
Despite your best efforts, you might face deposit deductions you believe are unfair.
Document Everything
Your strongest defence will be thorough documentation:
- Photos from move-in and move-out
- Copies of the initial condition report
- Cleaning and repair receipts
- Written communications with the property manager
Follow the Formal Dispute Process
Each state has a specific process for disputing bond deductions:
- First, attempt to negotiate directly with the property manager or landlord
- If unsuccessful, contact your state’s tenancy authority to lodge a formal dispute
- Be prepared to attend a mediation or tribunal hearing if necessary
Common Valid Reasons for Disputes
You have valid grounds for dispute if:
- Deductions are for normal wear and tear
- The property was in poor condition when you moved in
- The deduction amount exceeds reasonable repair costs
- Proper procedures weren’t followed
Preventative Measures for Future Rentals
Use what you’ve learned to protect your deposit in future rentals:
- Always complete thorough entry condition reports with extensive photos
- Address maintenance issues promptly during your tenancy
- Perform regular cleaning to prevent built-up grime
- Communicate proactively with your property manager
- Schedule periodic inspections of your own to identify potential issues
How 365 Cleaners Can Help
At 365 Cleaners, we specialise in end-of-lease cleaning services designed specifically to help tenants get their security deposits back. Our services include:
- Comprehensive end-of-lease cleaning packages
- Professional carpet and upholstery cleaning
- Specialised services for challenging areas like ovens and bathrooms
- Experienced cleaners who understand property manager expectations
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the process or want the confidence of a professional touch, contact 365 Cleaners today. Our expert team is ready to help ensure your rental property meets and exceeds the standards required for a full security deposit refund.
Visit our website or call us to book your end-of-lease cleaning service and take the first step towards reclaiming your full deposit.