Bond cleaning, which is also known as end of lease or exit cleaning- is one of the most important steps when moving out of a rental property. Many tenants, lose part or all of their bond simply because they believe incorrect information. These “myths” can cause- stress delays, disputes with property managers and unnecessary financial loss. Truth behind bond cleaning helps to “avoid” mistakes and improves your “chances” of getting your full bond back.
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In this article, we explain the most common “bond cleaning myths” and why you should not believe them. For “Preparing for an end of lease inspection”, this guide will help you make smarter decisions and avoid costly errors.
Regular Cleaning Is Enough for Bond Return
Many tenants think, that if they clean their home by themselves regularly then it will already meet bond cleaning standards. This is one of the “biggest mistakes” tenants make.
Cleaning regularly focuses on “day to day” tidiness, such as wiping benches, vacuuming floors and basic bathroom cleaning. Regular cleaning focuses only on visible dust and dirt whereas, Bond cleaning is detailed- deep cleaning areas that are rarely touched during normal living. These areas include- inside cupboards, window tracks, behind appliances, grout lines, skirting boards, ovens and exhaust fans.
In Bond cleaning inspection- inspection of rental properties happens using detailed checklists. Any hidden areas are not cleaned properly- the bond may be reduced, even if the home looks “clean” at first glance.
DIY Bond Cleaning Always Saves Money
“DIY bond cleaning” may seem like the cheapest option, many tenants underestimate the time, effort and skill required to clean an entire property to inspection standards.
Doing your own end of lease cleaning, seems like a cost effective choice- but without professional equipment and experience it is easy to miss important areas or fail to remove tough stains grease. On cleaning does not meet expectations- the landlord may request a re clean or deduct money from the bond.
In many cases, tenants “end up paying more” by attempting DIY cleaning because later they need professional help or lose part of their bond. In fact, professional “bond clean” is often more cost effective in the long run.
Hiring Professionals Guarantees Full Bond Back
Many tenants- assume a full bond refund by just hiring professionals which is not true at all. Hiring a professional “bond cleaning company” significantly improves chances of getting bond back- it does not guarantee it.
Professional “Bond Cleaners” don’t take responsibility for the damage beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent, broken fixtures or lease violations because it can still result in deductions, even if the property is perfectly clean.
“Professional Bond Cleaners” cannot fix the damage, they only focus on meeting cleaning requirements that existed during the tenancy. It’s just the way to reduce disputes and show the landlord that the property has been properly maintained.
If the Property Looks Clean the Bond Is Safe
Some tenants believe, once the place looks spotless- bond money is guaranteed. A property can look “clean” but still fail a bond inspection. Because landlords and agents do not only look at visible areas, they check details closely and compare the condition with the original entry report.
Property managers inspect even small things such as dust in vents, grease inside the oven, dirty window tracks or soap build up in bathrooms can lead to deductions.
Bond cleaning- requires attention to detail not just surface level cleanliness.
Bond Cleaning Is Only for Inside the House
Many tenants- believe “bond cleaning” only applies to the interior of the property which is not true in most cases.
Outdoor areas such as balconies, patios, garages, driveways and storage spaces are often included in the lease agreement If these areas are dirty or neglected the landlord may deduct money from the bond.
Cobwebs leaving oil stains and dust in outdoor spaces should be cleaned before the final inspection.
Bond Cleaning Can Be Done At The Last Minute
Many tenants have the wrong belief- Leaving bond cleaning until the final day which is a risky decision.
“Bond cleaning” takes time and cannot be rushed because it depends on the size and condition of the property, cleaning can take many hours or for the bigger one it takes even a full day.
Tenants rushing (at the last minute) increases the chance of missing important areas.
Advance planning of “bond cleaning” allows enough time for “proper cleaning, inspection and any required re cleaning”.
Final Thoughts
Believing Myths of “bond cleaning” can cost you time, money and peace of mind because “Bond cleaning” is a detailed process- goes far beyond everyday cleaning.
Knowing required and planning of “Bond Cleaning”- properly improves the chances of a smooth inspection and full bond return.
Giving attention to detail is essential whether you clean yourself or hire professionals.
FAQs about Top Bond Cleaning Myths You Should Not Believe
What is included in a bond clean?
Deep cleaning of all bedrooms, living area, kitchens, bathrooms, floors, windows (internal), appliances, cupboards, skirting boards, and often outdoor areas such as balconies or garages, depending on the lease agreement all of these are included in bond clean.
How long does bond cleaning take?
Small units take 4-6 hours and large houses may take a full day but the duration depends on the size and condition of the property.
Is carpet cleaning mandatory for bond return?
Yes, but depends on rental agreements. Professional carpet cleaning is required- especially if pets were present.
Can a landlord request a reclean?
Yes- on not meeting inspection standards landlord can request a reclean or deduct cleaning costs from the bond.
When should I book a bond clean?
Best to book your “bond cleaning” after moving out and before the final inspection.
