When tenants move out of a rental property, landlords or property managers conduct a final bond cleaning inspection to make sure the home is returned in a clean and well-maintained condition. This is carried out after the exit cleaning, which is the deep cleaning required at the end of a lease. If the property does not meet the expected standards, landlords may request additional cleaning or deduct cleaning costs from the rental bond.
Therefore, understanding what landlords check during bond cleaning can help tenants prepare properly and improve their chances of getting their full bond refund. In this blog, we’ll talk about what the inspection covers, why rental deposits get deducted, and tips to pass the assessment. Let’s get started right away.
Property Inspection Process
At the end of a tenancy, landlords or property managers carry out a final property inspection. They compare the current condition of the property with the entry condition report that was recorded when the tenant moved in. Such inspections focus mainly on cleanliness and overall property condition.
Landlords usually check:
- Whether all the rooms are thoroughly cleaned
- If appliances and fixtures are in good condition
- Whether there are stains, marks, or damage
- If the property is empty and ready for the next tenant
Many property managers follow a bond cleaning checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked during the inspection. So, it pays to have a to-do list when clearing out the house before moving to ensure nothing’s missed.
Key Areas Checked During Bond Cleaning Inspections
Certain areas of the property receive more attention during bond cleaning inspections because they tend to accumulate extra dirt, grease, or stains.
Kitchen Deep Clean
The kitchen is one of the most carefully inspected areas. Landlords typically check:
- Oven and stovetop cleanliness
- Rangehood and filters
- Kitchen cabinets and drawers
- Benchtops and splashbacks
- Sink and taps
- Floor cleanliness
Grease buildup in ovens or stovetops is one of the most common reasons properties fail inspection.
Bathroom Sanitisation
Bathrooms must be thoroughly cleaned and sanitised before the final inspection, since the following will be checked:
- Shower screens and tiles
- Grout and mould on bathroom surfaces
- Toilets, sinks, and bathtubs
- Mirrors and cabinets
- Exhaust fans and vents
- Bathroom floors
Removing soap scum, water stains, and mould is key to meeting inspection standards.
Living Areas and Bedrooms
For living areas and bedrooms, the main focus is on general cleanliness. Inspection points include:
- Dust on surfaces and furniture
- Carpet vacuuming or floor mopping
- Wardrobes and shelves
- Marks on walls or doors
- Clean skirting boards
All these areas should appear tidy, dust-free, and well-maintained.
Windows and Doors
Windows and doors are another common inspection point during end-of-lease cleaning. The inspection covers:
- Interior windows
- Window tracks and frames
- Door handles and frames
- Marks or fingerprints on doors
Clean windows and tracks not only improve the overall appearance of the property but also make full bond refunds more likely.
⚠️ Common Cleaning Issues that Affect Bond Refunds
Some issues may cause problems during the final bond cleaning inspection. These are the areas tenants should pay special attention to.
Common problems include:
- Grease inside ovens and stovetops
- Soap residue or mould in bathrooms
- Dust on skirting boards and light fixtures
- Dirty carpets or stained floors
- Marks on walls or doors
- Dirty window tracks
Even the smallest details, such as dirty light switches or door handles, can be noticed during inspections and affect bond returns.
Tips to Pass the Final Inspection
Proper preparation can make a big difference when it comes to receiving your rental deposit. Here’s what you can do:
Follow an In-depth Checklist
Using a detailed end-of-lease cleaning checklist ensures that every surface is cleaned thoroughly.
Focus on Kitchens and Bathrooms
These areas are inspected more strictly than other rooms, so pay extra attention to them
Compare with the Entry Condition Report
It’s a smart idea to review the report filed at the start of your tenancy to ensure the property is returned in a similar condition.
Check the Property before Leaving
Do a final walkthrough to confirm that all rooms are clean and the property is empty.
Consider Professional Bond Cleaning
Professional cleaners understand the cleaning standards expected by property managers. Their help can make passing the inspection more convenient.
Get Ready for Bond Cleaning Inspections with Make It Clean
Understanding what landlords check during bond cleaning helps tenants prepare for the final inspection and avoid unnecessary bond deductions. This allows more focus to be paid on important areas, such as kitchens, bathrooms, floors, and windows. However, doing all this work yourself can be tiring and quite stressful, especially in the middle of a move.
That’s what we’re here for. Make It Clean takes care of all the required tasks and follows a proper bond cleaning checklist. We’ll address the common issues and prepare the premises carefully before the inspection. With our help, you can significantly improve your chances of receiving a full bond refund.
Our professional bond cleaning services in Brisbane, Adelaide, and the Gold Coast are available for anyone who wants a reliable and stress-free experience when moving out. We aim to deliver rental properties that meet the standards expected during final inspections. For details, call us on 0410 871 861 or send us an email at contact@makeitclean.com.au.
FAQs
What do landlords check during the final inspection?
Landlords usually check kitchens, bathrooms, floors, windows, appliances, walls, and general cleanliness to ensure the property is returned in good condition.
Can landlords deduct cleaning costs from the bond?
Yes, if the property is not cleaned properly, landlords may deduct reasonable cleaning costs from the tenant’s bond. This is why you should get a checklist for cleaning or engage a professional cleaning company to handle the job for you.
What is the most inspected area during bond cleaning?
Kitchens and bathrooms are the most inspected areas because they often accumulate more grease, soap residue, and stains. In humid areas, mould growth is also a possibility; hence, the extra attention to these spaces.
Do landlords check inside cupboards and appliances?
Yes. Landlords usually check inside cupboards, drawers, ovens, and other appliances to ensure they are clean and empty.
How can tenants pass the bond cleaning inspection?
Tenants can pass the inspection by following a detailed bond cleaning checklist, cleaning every room thoroughly, and ensuring the property is empty before the inspection. To get professional help, reach out to our team today.
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