When it’s time to move out of a rental property in Brisbane, one of the biggest factors determining whether you get your bond back is how well you meet your landlord’s expectations for cleaning. End of lease cleaning isn’t just about making the place look tidy—it’s about returning the property in a condition that aligns with the Entry Condition Report (ECR) and the lease agreement you signed.
From spotless kitchens to professional carpet treatments, landlords and property managers follow a detailed checklist during inspections. Missing even a small detail can lead to deductions, which is why understanding exactly what’s expected is essential.
In this article, we’ll break down what landlords look for, highlight what are common mistakes made by Brisbane tenants, and explain the standards often required for end of lease cleaning in Brisbane apartments versus houses.
Why Landlord Expectations Matter
Your bond, usually equivalent to four weeks’ rent, is held by the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA). Landlords can request deductions from this bond if they believe the property isn’t cleaned or maintained to the required standard.
Meeting expectations not only helps you secure your full bond refund but also leaves you with a positive rental history—making it easier to rent your next property.
General Cleaning Standards Landlords Expect
- Floors and Carpets: Vacuuming, mopping, and often professional steam cleaning.
- Walls and Skirting Boards: Free of marks, stains, and dust.
- Kitchens: Oven, stovetop, rangehood, cupboards, sinks, and splashbacks thoroughly cleaned.
- Bathrooms: Tiles, grout, shower screens, toilets, and mirrors spotless.
- Windows and Blinds: Cleaned inside (and outside if accessible).
- Fixtures and Fittings: Light switches, fans, and air conditioners dust-free and operational.
- Outdoor Areas: Gardens, balconies, and driveways neat and rubbish-free.
What’s Required for End of Lease Cleaning in Brisbane Apartments
- Balconies and Sliding Doors: Swept, mopped, and glass panels cleaned.
- Integrated Appliances: Dishwashers, microwaves, and sometimes dryers must be spotless.
- Carpets and Upholstery: Professional cleaning often required—receipts may be requested.
- Limited Outdoor Space: Even small courtyards or balconies must be free of cobwebs, dust, and stains.
Example: A tenant in a South Brisbane apartment skipped cleaning the air conditioning filters, thinking it wasn’t necessary. The property manager deducted $75 from the bond for servicing.
Key Areas Landlords Pay Extra Attention To
1. The Kitchen
- Grease-free ovens, stovetops, and rangehoods.
- Cupboards wiped inside and out.
- Sinks polished and free of stains.
- Dishwasher filters emptied and cleaned.
Tip: Run your hand across the stovetop. If you feel grease, the landlord will too.
2. The Bathroom
- No soap scum or mold on tiles and shower screens.
- Toilets disinfected inside and out.
- Mirrors polished without streaks.
- Drains cleared of hair and debris.
3. Carpets and Floors
Landlords almost always expect carpets to be professionally cleaned, particularly if pets were in the home. For tiled or timber floors, they look for mopped, streak-free surfaces.
Example: A tenant in West End vacuumed carpets but didn’t steam clean them. The landlord deducted $180 for professional carpet cleaning.
4. Walls and Fixtures
Scuff marks, dirty skirting boards, and dusty blinds are small details that landlords always notice. A quick wipe with sugar soap or a damp cloth can prevent unnecessary deductions.
5. Outdoor Areas
For houses:
- Lawns mowed and gardens weeded.
- Driveways hosed down, with oil stains removed.
- Rubbish cleared, including bins.
For apartments: Balconies and outdoor furniture (if provided) must be returned clean.
Are Common Mistakes Made by Brisbane Tenants
- Forgetting Appliances: Dishwashers, rangehood filters, and microwaves often go unchecked.
- Ignoring High or Hidden Spots: Ceiling fans, exhaust vents, and behind appliances.
- Leaving Rubbish or Furniture: Even a few bags of rubbish can cost $100+ in removal fees.
- Skipping Professional Services: Failing to steam clean carpets or provide pest control receipts when required.
- Not Checking the Entry Condition Report: Tenants may overlook pre-existing vs. new issues.
How to Meet Landlord Expectations
- Start Early: Begin cleaning at least a week before moving to avoid last-minute rush.
- Use a Checklist: Follow a bond cleaning checklist to ensure no area is forgotten.
- Hire Professionals for Key Tasks: Especially for carpets, pest treatments, and large outdoor areas.
- Document Everything: Take before-and-after photos and keep receipts.
- Do a Self-Inspection: Walk through with your ECR in hand before handing over the keys.
What Happens if Standards Aren’t Met
If your landlord or property manager believes the cleaning isn’t satisfactory:
- They can deduct costs directly from your bond.
- You can request an itemised list of deductions.
- If you disagree, the RTA offers free dispute resolution services.
Example: A tenant in New Farm disputed a $200 claim for “dirty blinds.” With dated photos showing the blinds were cleaned, the RTA sided with the tenant, and the bond was refunded in full.
Final Thoughts
At the end of your tenancy, landlords expect more than just a quick tidy-up. They want to see the property returned in a condition that matches the Entry Condition Report and meets Brisbane’s rental standards.
By paying attention to detail, avoiding what are common mistakes made by Brisbane tenants, and completing everything required for end of lease cleaning in Brisbane apartments or houses, you’ll give yourself the best chance of a smooth inspection and a full bond refund.
Remember: Preparation, thoroughness, and documentation are your best tools for leaving on good terms with both your landlord and your wallet intact.