Written by Moving out of a rental can feel stressful, especially when your bond is on the line. In Brisbane, property managers don’t just glance around and “see if it looks clean.” Most inspections follow a clear standard and focus on details that many tenants forget.
If you’re preparing for your final inspection, this bond cleaning checklist will help you understand what property managers usually check—and how to avoid common issues that lead to bond deductions.
✅ What “Bond Clean” Really Means
Bond cleaning (also called end of lease cleaning) is a deeper clean compared to regular weekly cleaning. The goal is simple:
Return the property in a similar condition to when you moved in (fair wear and tear allowed).
That means no built-up grime, no leftover stains, and no overlooked areas like skirting boards or inside cupboards.
✅ 1) Kitchen: The #1 Area That Fails Inspections
Property managers focus heavily on the kitchen because grease and food residue build up fast.
Kitchen cleaning checklist
✅ Oven cleaned inside (including glass door)
✅ Stovetop scrubbed (burners and trays clean)
✅ Rangehood filters degreased
✅ Splashback wiped and polished
✅ Cupboards wiped inside and outside
✅ Bench tops cleaned, corners included
✅ Sink and taps polished
✅ Dishwasher cleaned (filter checked)
✅ Floor edges and corners vacuumed/mopped
Tip: If your oven has baked-on grease, it’s usually the first thing a property manager checks. Don’t leave it until the last day.
✅ 2) Bathrooms: Mould and Soap Scum Are Instant Red Flags
Bathrooms are often judged by smell and shine—if it looks or smells “used,” it can be marked down.
Bathroom cleaning checklist
✅ Shower screen de-scaled
✅ Tiles scrubbed (grout lines included)
✅ Toilet cleaned fully (base and behind)
✅ Vanity and sink spotless
✅ Mirror streak-free
✅ Exhaust fan dust removed
✅ Drain cleared of hair and debris
✅ Floor edges and corners cleaned
Tip: If there’s mould in grout or silicone, deal with it early. Some stains take time to lift properly.
✅ 3) Bedrooms & Living Areas: Dust Shows Up in Inspections
Even if the rooms look tidy, property managers check the small details.
General areas checklist
✅ All floors vacuumed thoroughly
✅ Skirting boards wiped
✅ Light switches cleaned
✅ Door handles cleaned
✅ Cobwebs removed from corners
✅ Walls spot-cleaned (marks removed)
✅ Air vents dusted
✅ Windowsills wiped
Tip: Clean with natural lighting where possible. Marks and dust are easier to see during the day.
✅ 4) Carpets: Stains, Smells, and High-Traffic Areas
Many Brisbane rentals require professional carpet cleaning, especially if pets were kept inside.
Carpet checklist
✅ Visible stains treated
✅ High-traffic areas deep cleaned
✅ Carpet edges vacuumed properly
✅ Musty smells removed
✅ Receipt provided if required
Tip: If your lease mentions carpet steam cleaning, keep the receipt. Agents may request proof.
✅ 5) Windows & Tracks: The Most Forgotten Detail
Windows are a common fail point because tenants often clean the glass but skip the tracks.
Windows checklist
✅ Glass cleaned inside
✅ Window tracks vacuumed and wiped
✅ Flyscreens dusted (if accessible)
✅ Sliding door tracks cleaned
✅ Fingerprints removed from frames
Tip: Dirty tracks can make an otherwise clean home look neglected.
✅ 6) Laundry: Small Area, Easy to Miss
Laundry spaces collect dust, lint, and detergent build-up.
Laundry checklist
✅ Sink cleaned and polished
✅ Lint removed from corners
✅ Cabinets wiped
✅ Walls spot-cleaned
✅ Floor cleaned behind appliances (if possible)
✅ 7) Balcony, Patio & Outdoor Areas (If Included)
Outdoor areas matter, especially in apartments and townhouses.
Outdoor checklist
✅ Balcony floor swept and mopped
✅ Cobwebs removed
✅ Outdoor glass cleaned
✅ Rubbish removed
✅ Garage floor swept (if part of property)
✅ Quick Final Inspection Checklist (Before You Hand Back Keys)
Use this fast check before your agent arrives:
✅ Property smells fresh
✅ All rubbish removed
✅ Lights working
✅ Floors clean and dry
✅ Keys returned properly
✅ Photos taken for your records
Tip: Take date-stamped photos after cleaning. It can help if there’s a bond dispute later.
✅ When It’s Worth Hiring a Bond Cleaner
If you’re short on time, have a large property, or need an invoice for carpets, professional bond cleaning can save you a lot of stress.
It’s often a smarter option when you need:
- A full deep clean in one day
- Carpet steam cleaning
- Oven and bathroom detailing
- A re-clean option if anything is missed
Final Thoughts
The best way to protect your bond is to clean like the inspection will focus on the details—because it usually does. Start early, follow a checklist, and don’t ignore the tough areas like the oven, shower grout, and window tracks.
If you’re moving out soon, saving this checklist can help you stay organised and avoid last-minute panic.
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