What Is Reasonable Wear And Tear In Bond Cleaning?

At the end of a fixed term agreement, the lease can be ended, or can continue further as a new fixed term or periodic agreement. However, if you are vacating a rental home in Gold Coast, QLD, at the end of your tenancy, you are responsible for returning the rental property in the same condition it was at the start of the tenancy, minus reasonable wear and tear.

Unfortunately, most renters face repercussions due to inadequate cleaning or serious damage. They often lack an understanding of the difference between normal wear and tear and serious damage (caused by negligence or intent) when performing a thorough bond cleaning, which can lead landlords to withhold your security deposit.

Fret not! We’ll understand what’s considered reasonable wear and tear in bond cleaning, what’s covered in actual damage caused by tenants, and who is responsible for fixing the damage. Carefully read your rental agreement and entry condition report for a hassle free move out.

Let’s Get Started!

1. What Does ‘Reasonably Wear and Tear’ Mean in QLD Tenancy Laws?

According to the Residential Tenancy Laws in Queensland, fair wear and tear is the gradual deterioration of a rental home due to everyday use, such as fading of carpets, etc. The property can also age over time through exposure to the environment, like direct sunlight, extreme weather conditions, etc.

Tenants/renters are expected to hand over the premises in a reasonably clean state, except for normal wear and tear. This clearly means they are not responsible for pre existing damage or poor condition. The landlord or property manager can’t deduct your bond for reasonable wear and tear.

However, this doesn’t include dirt, grime, grease, or damage caused by the renter. In such a scenario, they are responsible for fixing the damage before you call expert bond cleaners Gold Coast for accumulated dirt, grime and grease.

2. Understanding the Examples of Fair/Normal Wear & Tear

Tenants are not responsible for the following fair wear and tear conditions when moving out of a rental property:

• Cracked window pane due to warped frames
• Fading and discolouration of wall paint over time
• Minor plaster cracks
• Worn carpets due to everyday use
• Loose window and door handle hinges
• Aged kitchen benchtop
• Water marks on walls and delicate floor coverings due to seepage or rain
• Scuff marks on wooden floors

Landlords expect this level of deterioration when conducting a final rental inspection. They can deduct the bond unfairly. However, it is always good to click time stamped photos as evidence if you lose your bond.

3. What is Negligent Damage Beyond Wear and Tear

Damage to the property, fixtures and fittings caused by tenants or an approved pet is not included in fair wear and tear. Leaving the property dirt laden, worn carpets due to abrasive scrubbing, etc, can lead to bond deductions and costly penalties.

Therefore, it is essential for tenants to maintain a clean and tidy property to pass the final rental inspection. Here are some of the common examples of damage caused by tenants due to negligence or a careless approach:

• Paint discolouration via candle smoke
• Paint or plaster chipped by nails
• Scratches on the kitchen benchtop due to negligence (chopping food on the surface)
• Burn marks, pet stains and wine stains on carpets
• Scratched marks on wooden floors due to a careless cleaning approach
• Broken door glass
• Damage to the wall due to adhesive posters and decoration pieces
• Pet digging up garden mulch

Tip: Complete and sign the entry condition report before moving into a rental home to avoid failing the rental inspection.

4. Who is Responsible for Fixing Property Damage?

A rental property must be returned in a tidy and habitable condition, minus reasonable wear and tear. It must be in the original condition as you moved in at the start of your lease.

Tenants are responsible for damage caused by their negligence, intentional acts, or misuse during a lease. They may request approval to fix issues before the arrival of the bond cleaning Gold Coast experts. Hiring a reliable handyman is essential to prevent further damage.

Landlords, on the other hand, are responsible for fixing fair wear and tear and structural damage. It is because rental properties must meet minimum housing standards under the tenancy laws. This includes fixing damaged roofs, clogged gutters, leaking taps, and damaged decks. This helps you protect your investment property for longer, ensuring stable rental revenue.

5. What is Included in a Bond Cleaning in Gold Coast

Since dirt, grime and grease are not included in reasonable wear and tear, ensure you conduct a thorough bond cleaning to restore the property’s condition. Go room by room and spruce up the following areas:

• Ceiling fans, air filters and vents and light fittings
• Cupboards and drawers, inside, outside and on the top
• Windows and window tracks
• Blinds and curtains
• Kitchen appliances, range hood and filters
• Countertops, backsplash area, sink and tapware
• Bathroom fixtures and fittings include showerheads, glass doors, windows, cabinets, bathtubs, toilet seats, tiles, grout lines, counters and towel rails.
• Clean patio area, tidy and weed gardens
• repair rubbish from the property
• If renting a fully furnished property, ensure you clean all furniture pieces and return them to their original condition.

6. How to Avoid Unfair Bond Claims for Reasonable Wear and Tear

In Queensland, renters/tenants have the right to dispute unfair bond deductions. It is always a good idea to conduct a thorough inspection before completing and signing a PCR (property condition report). It is a document that outlines the current condition of the premises.

Ensure you take time stamped photos and videos of a property at the start, during and at the end of your tenancy to recollect evidence. This can be used as evidence in case of unfair bond deductions over fair wear and tear. Even use them if your landlord deducts the bond because of pre existing damage. You can also ask your landlord to provide evidence of the damaged area or a receipt for repair work.

If a dispute arises, you can simply apply to the QCAT. However, urgent tenancy issues start with the RTA, but you should always check QCAT’s official site for the specific form for your dispute type. They will make the final decision based on the evidence provided by both parties.

7. Key Tips to Seamlessly Pass the Rental Inspection

There is no rocket science when passing the rental inspection in QLD. Here are a few things to consider:

• Understand your responsibilities and duties as a tenant.
• Consider specific clauses related to cleaning mentioned in a lease agreement.
• Thoroughly inspect every room before you tick and sign the initial condition report.
• Click time stamped photos and videos.
• Routine cleaning throughout your lease
• Inform your landlord of any structural damage or pre existing issue
• Do necessary repairs before the rental inspection. Seek permission from your landlord.
• Hire professionals for a guaranteed bond cleaning Gold Coast. They will clean every nook and cranny, including hidden spots, to secure your bond.
• Be present during the property inspection

Infographic For Tenant’s Guide: Discover Reasonable Wear & Tear When Moving Out

Wrapping Up

Understanding residential tenancy laws, rights and responsibilities can make a world of difference. Hopefully! This article has helped you understand the key difference between reasonable wear and tear vs damage caused by tenants, helping you make an informed decision. Landlords are also required to provide a clean and habitable property to a new tenant. Follow this guide to seamlessly move out of your tenancy.