As the end of a lease draws near, tenants are typically required to restore the property to its original condition, ensuring it meets the landlord’s expectations during the final inspection. For many, this inspection can be a source of stress, mainly when the return of the bond hinges on its outcome. However, understanding what landlords are specifically looking for can help tenants prioritise their efforts and avoid any surprises.
This guide outlines the key areas that landlords and property managers commonly assess during end-of-lease inspections. A thorough clean and attention to detail will not only leave the property in top shape but also improve your chances of receiving your full bond back.
1. Cleanliness: A Spotless Property is Essential
First impressions matter, and rental property cleanliness is usually the number one concern during an inspection. Landlords expect the property to be returned in a pristine state, with all rooms receiving attention. Here’s a breakdown of the most critical areas to clean:
- Kitchen: The kitchen tends to accumulate grease, grime, and dirt over time. Landlords will check that the stovetop, oven, rangehood, splashback, and benchtops are thoroughly cleaned. The oven, in particular, is one area where tenants often fall short, so make sure it’s degreased and free of food remnants. Cupboards and drawers should be emptied, wiped down, and left spotless.
- Bathroom: Bathrooms are another high-priority area. Mould, mildew, soap scum, and limescale can build up over time, and landlords expect these to be removed. Pay special attention to tiles, grout, shower screens, and mirrors. Toilets, basins, and taps must be sanitised and polished, leaving no watermarks or residue behind.
- Living Areas and Bedrooms: These rooms should be free of dust, cobwebs, and marks on the floors and walls. Carpets should be vacuumed (and professionally cleaned if required), and hard floors should be swept and mopped. Be sure to clean under furniture and along skirting boards as these areas often collect dust.
2. Professional carpet cleaning: Professional or DIY?
Carpets are an area that often requires extra attention during the end-of-lease clean. Over time, carpets can accumulate dirt, stains, and odours, especially in high-traffic areas. While vacuuming is important, many landlords expect carpets to be professionally cleaned before tenants vacate the property.
If the lease agreement specifies professional carpet cleaning, it’s vital to follow through with this requirement. Landlords may ask for a receipt to confirm the work has been completed. Professional steam cleaning is often preferred as it removes deep-set dirt and stains that regular vacuuming can’t handle. This step is especially important if pets have been living in the home, as pet hair and odours can linger.
3. Windows, Glass, and Blinds: Don’t Forget the Details
Windows are another aspect landlords check carefully. All glass should be cleaned inside and out, ensuring no streaks, smudges, or watermarks are left behind. This includes window frames, tracks, and flyscreens, which can easily accumulate dust and debris.
Blinds, whether they are fabric, Venetian, or roller, should be thoroughly cleaned as well. Dust and grime can build up over time, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, so a good wipe-down is necessary. For fabric blinds, a light vacuuming may suffice, but for more stubborn stains, spot cleaning or even professional treatment may be required.
4. Fixtures, Fittings, and Appliances: Check for Damage
During an inspection, landlords will assess the condition of fixtures and fittings provided with the property. These include:
- Light Fixtures: Make sure all light bulbs are working and replace any that are burnt out. Dust and clean light fittings, ceiling fans, and air conditioning units, ensuring they are free from cobwebs and dust build-up.
- Appliances: If the property comes with appliances like a dishwasher, washing machine, or refrigerator, they should be left clean and in good working order. Landlords will check for cleanliness, especially around seals, filters, and inside the machines. Dishwashers should be run through a final cycle to ensure they are spotless, and all residual water should be drained.
- Taps and Fixtures: Ensure all taps and fittings are not only cleaned and polished but also free from leaks or damage. If there are any minor maintenance issues like dripping taps, it’s worth addressing them before the inspection.
5. Walls, Paintwork, and Flooring: Address Minor Damage
Walls are one of the most common areas where landlords may deduct from the bond return process if they find significant damage. While normal wear and tear, such as minor scuff marks, is usually acceptable, anything beyond that may need attention.
- Wall Damage: If there are nail holes from picture frames or visible marks, it’s best to patch and paint over them. Landlords will inspect for scratches, stains, or larger scuff marks, particularly in high-traffic areas like hallways.
- Floors: In properties with timber or tiled flooring, make sure they are thoroughly swept, mopped, and polished where necessary. Check for scratches, dents, or stains on the floors. In the case of timber floors, minor surface scratches can sometimes be polished out.
6. Garden and Exterior Areas: Beyond the House
If the property includes outdoor areas such as a garden, patio, or balcony, landlords will expect these spaces to be well-maintained as well. This includes:
- Lawns and Gardens: Ensure lawns are mowed, edges are trimmed, and gardens are weed-free. Any outdoor furniture or fixtures should be cleaned and left in good condition.
- Balconies and Patios: Sweep, mop, and remove any debris from outdoor areas. Be sure to clean outdoor glass doors, railings, and light fixtures to leave everything looking fresh.
By following this comprehensive landlord inspection checklist and paying attention to the finer details, tenants can ensure they leave the property in a condition that meets or exceeds the landlord’s expectations. A well-prepared and thorough clean not only smooths the inspection process but also greatly increases the likelihood of receiving the bond in full, making the moving process much less stressful.
Ensure your bond is returned hassle-free with our expert end-of-lease cleaning services. Call us today at 03 8583 9109, email info@endofleaseclean.net.au, or visit https://endofleaseclean.net.au to book your clean!