Moving out of a rental property in Brisbane comes with more than just boxes and removal trucks—it also comes with the responsibility of leaving the property in a condition that satisfies your landlord or property manager. This is where end of lease cleaning (often called bond cleaning) becomes crucial.
But cleaning isn’t the only thing tenants should think about. As a tenant in Brisbane, you also have rights and responsibilities set out under Queensland rental law. Knowing these can save you from unnecessary stress, disputes, or even losing part of your bond.
This guide explains everything you need to know: what you’re responsible for, what protections you have, and how to meet the standards that real estate agents expect during a final inspection.
When you first moved into your rental, you likely paid a bond—usually the equivalent of four weeks’ rent. This bond is held by the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) until the end of your tenancy. To get your bond back, the property must be returned in the same condition it was at the start of your lease (allowing for fair wear and tear).
End of lease cleaning is a critical part of this process. It ensures the property is clean, hygienic, and ready for the next tenant. Without it, your landlord or property manager can claim part of your bond to cover cleaning costs.
As a tenant, your cleaning responsibilities are clearly outlined by Queensland’s rental laws and your lease agreement. Here are the main points you need to know.
You’re expected to leave the property as close as possible to the condition it was in when you first moved in, aside from fair wear and tear.
Many leases include specific conditions about cleaning. Common examples include:
Failing to meet these requirements is a common reason tenants lose part of their bond.
This includes:
Leaving bins full or rubbish behind can result in immediate bond deductions.
While tenants must meet their responsibilities, you also have important rights that protect you from unfair treatment.
Landlords and property managers can’t demand a professional cleaning service unless your lease specifically requires it. For example:
You are not responsible for natural ageing or deterioration of the property. Examples of fair wear and tear include:
You are responsible, however, for negligence—such as stains from spills, holes in walls, or pet damage.
If your landlord tries to claim part of your bond unfairly, you can lodge a dispute with the RTA. This triggers a dispute resolution process where both parties can present their case.
You are entitled to see the property condition report (entry condition report) from the start of your lease. This document is the benchmark for your final inspection.
While tenants have rights, it’s important to understand what real estate agents expect during the final inspection. Their checklist usually includes:
Real estate agents don’t just check surfaces—they run fingers along skirting boards, open cupboards, and inspect window tracks. Missing these details is a common reason tenants fail in end of lease cleaning inspection.
Tenants are not legally required to hire professional cleaners unless their lease says so. That means you can choose to do it yourself if you’re confident.
DIY Cleaning: Saves money, but you must invest significant time and energy. One missed detail can risk your bond.
Professional Cleaning: Costs more upfront (usually $200–$600 in Brisbane), but many companies provide a bond back guarantee. This means if the agent isn’t satisfied, they’ll return free of charge to fix the issue.
End of lease cleaning in Brisbane is more than a checklist—it’s about balancing your responsibilities as a tenant with your rights under Queensland law.
On one hand, you’re required to leave the property clean, hygienic, and in comparable condition to when you moved in. On the other, landlords and property managers can’t demand unreasonable standards or charge for normal wear and tear.
By understanding what real estate agents expect, sticking to your lease agreement, and documenting everything with photos and receipts, you can avoid disputes and maximise your chances of getting your full bond back.
Remember: your bond is your money. Protect it by cleaning thoroughly, knowing your rights, and standing firm against unfair claims.