Understanding Your Lease Agreement’s Cleaning Requirements

Nothing is more stressful than preparing for the final rental inspection at the end of the tenancy. Many tenants in Newcastle find themselves overwhelmed by unexpected cleaning requirements outlined in their tenancy agreement. It is a legal document between a landlord and a tenant that outlines their specific rights and responsibilities. The objective is to help both parties foster a transparent relationship throughout the lease period.

Under the agreement, tenants are required to return the rental apartment/house in a clean and organised state as it was at the beginning. The landlords have the right to deduct your bond money if you fail to achieve the desired results. Thus, it is important to understand these specific obligations to ensure a stress-free handover. Due to certain complexities, most renters don’t fully understand their cleaning responsibilities, leading to bond disputes and penalties.

In today’s guide, we will understand the cleaning requirements outlined in the lease agreement in NSW. This will help tenants to deep clean every nook and cranny according to the landlord’s expectations with the help of professional end of lease cleaning Newcastle experts. They can streamline the move-out process while ensuring peace of mind.

Let’s Get Started!

1. General Cleaning Requirements During the Tenancy

It is legally binding between landlord and tenant to determine specific roles, duties and responsibilities throughout the lease. Tenants must read it thoroughly before signing the agreement. It operates within the Residential Tenancies Act 2010 framework that outlines specific cleaning responsibilities.

The agreement mentions the clause of maintaining clean and damage-free premises during the lease. It is a tenant’s responsibility to conduct routine house cleaning. This will keep dirt, grime, gunk and germs at bay from every nook and cranny to prevent property damage or pest infestation. That’s one of the reasons why landlords conduct routine inspections to address property maintenance issues and ensure compliance with lease agreements.

2. Defining ‘Reasonably Clean’ Term in Rental Agreements

Cleaning requirements may differ from each rental agreement. Landlords can exclusively add specific cleaning clauses to maintain their property. However, most of them have a common term known as “Reasonably Clean” that needs to be understood before vacating the rental property. It generally means the property should be clean, dirt-free and well-maintained but not necessarily spotless. That’s where the Entry Condition Report comes in. It can help you unwind specific cleaning responsibilities according to the agreement.

Tenants must check the property condition report and take photos and videos when moving into the rental property. It outlines the property’s condition, as you are not liable for pre-existing dirt and damages. Ensure you refer to the same report and return the property in reasonably clean condition as it was at the beginning of your lease. It underlines what areas need end of lease cleaning Newcastle to pass the rental inspection.

Note: Landlords and tenants sign the entry condition report at the beginning of the tenancy to set the cleaning and property maintenance benchmark.

3. Understanding Fair Wear & Tear Vs Property Damage

Renters are not responsible for normal wear and tear occurring in the property due to day-to-day activities over time. For instance, worn carpets in high-traffic spots, faded paint, etc, would generally be considered fair wear and tear. You will be held responsible for the repair of any serious damage caused by you during your lease. Ask your landlord to fix it or seek permission to do necessary repairs, such as broken doors, windows, etc.

However, stained carpets, scuff marks on walls, greasy appliances and dingy bathroom tiles won’t be considered as fair wear and tear. Ensure you refer to the property condition report and deep clean the entire property from top to bottom before the final rental inspection.

4. The End of Lease Cleaning Requirements

Carefully read the move-out cleaning clause in the agreement and follow a pre-approved checklist to impress your landlord. These clauses may vary but often include tasks that help you achieve a clean and well-maintained property.

• Kitchen: Remove buildup grease, grime, food splatters, oil stains and grime from wooden cabinets, range hood filters, stovetops, countertops, sinks and faucets. Ensure you clean the oven, microwave, fridge, and dishwasher inside and outside. You can use baking soda and vinegar to eliminate stubborn stains and grime.
• Bathroom Cleaning: Leave the bathroom fixtures and fittings clean and sanitised. Eliminate soap scum, calcium deposits, rust stains and grime from exhaust fans, showerheads, glass doors, curtains, bathtubs, tiles and grout lines, toilet seats, counters, faucets, mirrors, floors, etc. Hydrogen peroxide is great for removing mould and other stubborn stains. Also, clean the laundry room.
• Living Areas and Bedrooms: Tackle dust and debris from ceiling fans, air vents, shelves, light fixtures and fittings, and skirting boards. Wipe down the picture frames, cupboards, drawers, baseboards, etc. Vacuum door tracks, window tracks and blinds.
• Windows: Wash windows inside and outside to achieve streak-free results.
• Carpets: Deep clean your carpets to remove embedded dust and debris using a HEPA-filtered vacuum machine. For stains and spills, blot the area with a cloth dampened in vinegar solution. Baking soda can help neutralise bad odours and germs.
• Sweep and Mop Floors: Remove dust, dirt and debris from your hardwood, laminate, tiled and other floor surfaces. Use a microfiber mop to keep your floors shiny.
• Outdoor Areas: Clean patio floors, garage walls and exterior windows to leave a great impression on your landlord.

Ensure you consider the end of lease cleaning clause to secure your full bond money in NSW.

5. Professional Cleaning Vs. DIY Cleaning

Some lease agreements may recommend professional cleaning, but it’s not mandatory. If it is specifically mentioned in your rental agreement, consider hiring experts. However, tenants can choose between professional end of lease cleaning Newcastle or a DIY approach. Ensure you meet the landlord’s cleaning standards to prevent bond disputes and deductions. Small details can make a world of difference, so it is always good to refer to the tenancy agreement. If you are running low on budget, understand the estimated cost and choose an affordable service provider in your area.

6. Pest Control Requirements

If you had dogs, cats or other pets on the rental property, then a lease agreement may require pest control treatments to eliminate fleas and other hidden invaders. This is crucial to meet the property’s set health and hygiene standards. Overlooking this clause can lead to disputes and heavy penalties.

7. Rubbish Removal Clause

According to the standard rental agreement in NSW, tenants are required to remove rubbish from the property from the lawn area. You can dispose of the waste after sprucing up the property or recycle unwanted items to reduce landfill waste.

8. Communicate With Your Landlord

If you are confused about any cleaning clause or requirement in your tenancy agreement, contact your landlord for clarification. Effective communication can help you prevent misunderstandings and ensure a hassle-free handover at the end of your tenancy.

If you disagree over cleaning, you can negotiate with your landlord or lodge a claim with the NSW Fair Trading Tenancy Tribunal. Ensure you keep all documents, recipes and evidence ready to claim your full bond back.

A Guide to Cleaning Clauses in Your Lease Agreement

Wrapping up

These are some of the essential aspects to help you understand the outlined cleaning requirements in your lease agreement. Knowing your roles and responsibilities, specified cleaning clauses, and the Residential Tenancy Laws can streamline the entire move-out process without getting into any dispute or conflict.