Are you moving out of a rental property in Brisbane? Then you might heard about the terms bond cleaning and exit cleaning. Most of the tenants think that bond cleaning and exit cleaning are the same thing, but are they really identical? In this blog, Real Bond Cleaning will provide you with everything you need to know about the difference between Bond Cleaning vs Exit Cleaning and whether they are the same thing or not.
What Is Bond Cleaning?
When a tenant’s lease ends, they will often complete a bond cleaning service (also called an end-of-lease cleaning) for the purpose of cleaning the rental unit before they leave. Bond cleaning is meant to restore the unit to its original state and provide a fresh, clean space for the next occupant. If done properly, it will help the tenant receive their full bond (security deposit) back.
According to the Residential Tenancies Authority, tenants are required to return their rented property in a reasonably clean condition compared to how it was when they moved in.
Most Bond Cleaning Services Include:
- Deep cleaning all kitchen surfaces
- Scrubbing bathrooms and removing mould
- Spot cleaning walls
- Cleaning skirting boards and fixtures
- Cleaning windows
- Vacuuming and mopping floors
- Steam cleaning carpets
What is Exit Cleaning?
Exit cleaning refers generally to the cleaning that occurs prior to moving out of a property and it can mean different things to different people. In some cases, exit cleaning has the same meaning as bond cleaning; however, not in all cases.
Examples of items that could be considered exit cleaning:
- Basic cleaning when moving out
- Standard surface cleaning
- Less intensive than what is designated bond cleaning, if the cleaning isn’t specified as bond cleaning.
Some cleaning companies may use the term “exit cleaning” as a marketing tool or to define their service range when in actuality, the scope of the service will vary. Because of this, tenants should verify with the cleaning company that their service provides a sufficient level of end-of-lease cleaning/housekeeping.
Are Bond Cleaning and Exit Cleaning the Same?
Bond Cleaning and Exit Cleaning are the same thing, or at least they typically are, depending on the type of clean you’re performing. Generally speaking, these two types of cleaning involve a complete, thorough deep clean of your rental property before you leave. Both cleans will be done in such a way that they meet real estate standards so that you can receive your full security deposit back from your landlord.
Here are some common things you will see when comparing Bond and Exit Cleaning:
- The Purpose of Bond and Exit Cleaning: Restore the Property Back to Its Original Condition Through Deep Cleaning.
- The Scope of Bond and Exit Cleaning: Includes thorough carpet cleaning, cleaning of walls and cleaning of ovens, etc.
- Bond and Exit Cleaning Terminology: The Industry Uses The Terms: “Bond Clean”, “Exit Clean”, and “End Of Lease Clean” Interchangeably.
What are the Key Differences Between Bond Cleaning and Exit Cleaning?
| Aspect | Bond Cleaning | Exit Cleaning |
| Goal | To secure full bond refund by meeting landlord inspection standards. | To clean the property before moving out. |
| Cleaning Level | Deep, detailed, checklist based cleaning. | Basic or surface-level cleaning. |
| Scope | Includes oven, inside cabinets, skirting boards, windows, behind appliances. | Focuses on visible areas and general tidying. |
| Inspection Standard | Designed to pass real estate inspections. | May not meet strict bond inspection requirements. |
| Equipment & Time | Uses professional equipment; takes 4 to 10 hours. | Uses standard tools; generally quicker. |
| Guarantee | Often comes with bond-back guarantee. | Usually no guarantee unless specified. |
What Does a Professional Bond Cleaning Service Include?
A Reliable Bond Cleaning Service Will Thoroughly Clean All Areas Of A Tenants Property Such As:
Kitchen
- Deep oven cleaning
- Degreasing stovetop and rangehood
- Cleaning cupboards inside and outside
- Cleaning splashbacks and sinks
Bathroom
- Scrubbing tiles and grout
- Descaling shower screens
- Sanitising toilets
- Cleaning mirrors
- Treating for mould
Living Areas and Bedrooms
- Dusting ceiling fans and light fittings
- Cleaning all skirting boards
- Cleaning all walls with spot cleaning
- Vacuuming and mopping floors
Carpets
- Steam cleaning carpets
- Stain treating
- Outdoor Areas
- Clean balconies
- Sweep garages
- Clean patio surfaces
Why Professional Bond Cleaning Is Worth It
Some of the key reasons why professional bond cleaning is worth it, some of which include:
- Guaranteed Return of Bond: Reduces the possibility of a dispute over cleanliness with your landlord and assures receipt of your bond.
- Time and Stress Saver: Provides you with many hours of time to pack and arrange your move rather than spending time cleaning.
- Better Cleaning Results: Commercial quality cleaning equipment removes dirt, mould and tough stains.
- Knowledge of Expectations: Cleaning professionals know exactly what property managers are looking for when doing a final inspection.
- Convenience: Provides a one-stop shop for all cleaning needs including hard to reach areas.
Bond Cleaning in Brisbane: What Tenants Should Know
Brisbane rental properties are subjected to thorough inspections by property managers, particularly in high demand suburbs. Therefore, it is expected that you will leave these properties in a clean and well maintained state.
Important Points:
- Cleaning should be booked when all furniture has been removed.
- Read your lease to see if there are any carpet steam cleaning requirements.
- Ensure that your cleaning matches with your original entry condition report.
- Book cleaning before the final inspection.
Why Choose Real Bond Cleaning for Both Bond Cleaning & Exit Cleaning in Brisbane?
Real Bond Cleaning has years of experience in bond cleaning and offers the following:
- Professional residential and commercial cleaning services
- Effective and thorough cleaning services that pass all inspections
- Skilled and trained employees who clean efficiently
- Pricing that is clearly outlined before service
- Reliability throughout the entire Brisbane area.
FAQs About Bond Cleaning And Exit Cleaning
Does bond cleaning include carpet cleaning?
Some agreements will specify that carpet cleaning must take place or is required as part of how the property was maintained. If carpets were cleaned by professionals during the term of the lease, it is fairly typical of Brisbane to have that requirement in place. The contract itself will dictate this area.
Is bond cleaning the same as exit cleaning?
In Brisbane, bond cleaning and exit cleaning are generally considered the same thing. Both cleaning tasks are performed to remove all traces of tenants from a property and restore it to pre-rental condition. Either way, the person completing the task will be responsible for meeting all cleaning standard regulatory requirements of Brisbane real estate before re-entering.
How long would it take to do a bond cleaning job?
The bond cleaning duration will depend on the size and condition of your home. If you’re performing bond cleaning in a 2–3 bedroom house, expect anywhere from several hours or full day to complete the work.
Is exit cleaning less detailed than bond cleaning?
In effect, the scope of what is defined by the cleaning separation may vary from clean to clean due to circumstances. Often exit cleaning is an expression used to describe cleaning done prior to a tenant vacating. Most exit cleanings, however, may not warrant full cleaning in terms of achieving the required amount of cash-back based on your bond amount. Thus, you must know exactly what is expected of you and how your rent payment history will be documented.
Can landlords deduct from bond for cleaning?
Yes, if the rental property is returned to its lessor in a reasonably clean state in comparison to the original condition of the rental property as of the date of your application for the bond, the lessor can also make claims against you with the proper dispute resolution process.
