Moving out can be stressful enough without having to worry about every last detail of the cleaning process. Bond cleaning, often seen as the ultimate challenge in ensuring the full return of your security deposit, is surrounded by a host of myths and misconceptions.
Especially when we talk about bond cleaning Brisbane, there are a lot of misconceptions that tenants face when it comes to their refund. In this blog, we’ll sift through the common myths that can lead to confusion and unnecessary expenses, providing you with clear, practical insights on what tenants really need to know.
Top 7 Bond Cleaning Myths Debunked
Let’s learn about the top seven bond cleaning myths that most tenants aren’t aware of:
Myth: Every Inch of the Property Must Sparkle
Most property owners check kitchens and bathrooms together with flooring because these elements determine whether the property meets habitability requirements. Minor flaws in less-used areas of the property won’t necessarily cause you to lose your bond, as long as the rest of the property meets the landlord’s standards. The specific areas listed in your rental contract need to meet specific standards for you to earn your bond back.
Myth: A Basic Clean is Enough To Get a Bond Back
Basic cleaning does not fulfill the rigid cleaning requirements which most rental agreements contain. To meet the rental requirements, a deep cleaning process must remove accumulated dirt in addition to addressing neglecting areas and patched stains. Always examine your lease for detailed cleaning specifications which needs to be checked before you leave the rental unit.
Myth: Landlords Can Deduct Any Cleaning Fees They Want
Your landlord cannot just deduct cleaning fees from your bond unnecessarily. Bond return deductions are only possible if there is a lack in cleaning standards and there is evidence that justifies it. You have the authority to object to cleaning expenses that seem too high or unjustified. Complete understanding of your rights along with the lease terms will help you identify unjustified fees.
Myth: Last Minute Cleaning is Just As Good
By rushing the cleaning process, you can miss spots and subpar work. This leads to not meeting the expectations of the standards set by your landlord. To avoid causing any disputes over your bond, allocating enough time for an intensive, well laid out cleaning process is paramount.
Myth: A Spotless Property Guarantees a Full Bond Return
A spotless property doesn’t always guarantee a full bond refund. Pre-existing damage or normal wear and tear can still lead to deductions. Understanding the difference between cleaning issues and wear and tear, and reviewing your lease, can help set clear expectations for your bond return.
Myth: You Must Always Hire a Professional Cleaning Service
Professional bond cleaning provides great help but you do not necessarily need to hire professional cleaning services. A bond-worthy standard for cleaning exists within most rental lease contract requirements so that tenants who diligently follow these guidelines will achieve it. Knowing precisely what the cleaning requirements are will help you save more when you dedicate time and effort to perform a thorough cleaning yourself.
Three Things to Check For Getting A Full Refund
Proper preparation for bond cleaning can make a huge difference in ensuring the property meets landlord and real estate agent expectations. Here are three things that you can ensure to get a full refund:
- Lease Agreement and Condition Report
Before you begin with the bond cleaning, take a look at the leasing agreement and the first condition report. They are documents which outline what the property is to be like on the date of moving out. They may have specific cleaning requirements that if not adhered to will lead to bond deductions, and by the landlord or real estate agent.
- Repair Minor Damages and Minor Items
Visible damages are a problem since they result in deductions from the bond. Put out the cigarette, fixing small holes in the walls, replacing broken light bulbs, making sure blinds and doorknobs and fixtures work. It is recommended to fix it before the final inspection if you have made any damage on the unit other than what you normally see when you use it. Take help of professional bond cleaning services to avoid hassles and get your work done easily.
- Visit the Property Site, Take Photos, and Attend Final Inspection.
When cleaning is finished, you can take time stamped clear photos of every room as hard proof of the property’s condition before you clean it. These images can be used as evidence for any disputes involving cleanliness or damages. In case, try to be there at the final inspection that might expose any concerns from the landlord or the agent.
DIY vs. Professional Bond Cleaning: Which One is Better?
DIY bond cleaning is budget-friendly, you are in control of the process, and it’s time, effort and attention to detail intensive. Bond deduction can be added if the sellers find hidden dirt or deep cleaning tasks like carpet steam cleaning, so it is risky if not done completely.
Professional bond cleaners use specialized tools to ensure a deep, real estate standard clean and sometimes offer a re-clean guarantee. But it’s expensive and saves both time and stress. Minor cleaning can be done DIY, but if you want a hassle-free bond return, professionals are the safest option.
Conclusion
Bond cleaning is essential for securing your full deposit, yet many tenants fall for myths like thinking regular cleaning is enough or that landlords always deduct from the bond. Overlooking key areas like ovens, carpets, and windows can lead to unexpected charges.
Before you become a tenant it’s your responsibility to return the property back to its original condition. No matter if you are doing DIY or professional bond cleaning service, the most important thing is thoroughness. With a proper checklist and meeting lease requirements, there is a good chance to get a bond refund and a smooth move out.