Your Legal Rights and Responsibilities For Bond Cleaning in Brisbane

When it comes to moving out of a rental property in Brisbane, understanding your legal rights and responsibilities regarding bond cleaning is crucial. This knowledge can help you avoid disputes and ensure you receive your full bond refund. Let's dive into what Queensland law says about end of lease cleaning and what it means for you as a tenant.

The 'Reasonably Clean' Standard

According to the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (Qld), tenants are required to leave the property in the same condition as when they moved in, except for 'fair wear and tear'. This is often referred to as 'reasonably clean'.

But what does 'reasonably clean' actually mean?

• All rubbish has been removed from the property
• Floors have been vacuumed/mopped
• Walls are clean and free of marks
• Windows and sills are clean
• All fixtures and fittings are clean and undamaged
• The kitchen, including the oven and stovetop, is clean and free of grease
• Bathrooms, toilets, and laundry areas are clean and sanitary

Fair Wear and Tear

It's important to note that you're not responsible for rectifying 'fair wear and tear'. This includes things like:

• Faded curtains or carpets due to sunlight
• Furniture indentations on carpets
• Minor scuff marks on walls from normal use
• A few small chips or cracks in windows

Professional Cleaning: Required or Not?

Contrary to popular belief, there is no legal requirement in Queensland for tenants to hire professional cleaners or carpet cleaners when moving out, unless it's specifically stated in your lease agreement. However, if the property isn't left reasonably clean, your landlord may hire professionals and deduct the cost from your bond.

Navigating Disputes

If a dispute arises over the cleanliness of the property:

1. Refer to your entry condition report to compare the state of the property when you moved in.
2. Provide your landlord or agent with photos or videos showing the clean state of the property.
3. If an agreement can't be reached, you can lodge a dispute resolution request with the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA).

Tips for a Successful Bond Clean

• Start cleaning early, don't leave it to the last minute. • Use the RTA's cleaning checklist to ensure you don't miss anything. • Take detailed photos after cleaning as evidence. • Consider hiring a professional bond cleaning service with a bond back guarantee for peace of mind.

Remember, while bond cleaning in Brisbane might seem daunting, knowing your rights and responsibilities can make the process much smoother. By leaving the property in a reasonably clean state, you're well on your way to receiving your full bond refund and starting your next chapter on the right foot.