10 Essential Tips To Get Your Full Bond Back

Moving out of a rental property can be overwhelming – packing up your belongings, planning your next move and making sure everything is in order. But one thing that often causes stress for tenants is getting their full bond money back. It is not just about tidying up; landlords and agents expect the property to be returned in the same condition it was given.

That is where bond cleaning comes in, a thorough top to bottom clean of the entire property before you hand back the keys. This blog provides you with 10 essential tips to get your full bond back. Whether you are doing it yourself or hiring a bond cleaning Ipswich professional service, knowing exactly what to clean can make the difference between getting your full bond back or losing a chunk of it.

1. Start Early and Create a Checklist

Time is your friend when it comes to bond cleaning. Don’t wait until the last day because it will only result in hasty, poor cleaning and skipped areas. Begin at least a week beforehand, giving time for thorough cleaning and touch ups.

Develop a comprehensive checklist from your lease contract and property condition report. Kitchens and bathrooms are more demanding areas and need more attention. Skirting boards, walls, light fixtures, and blinds don’t need to be forgotten, they easily accumulate dust and dirt.

2. Focus on the Kitchen

Kitchens are regarded for being the most thoroughly checked during final inspections. Landlords and brokers prefer clean ovens, stovetops, and range hoods. Strong degreasers can be used to remove oil and burnt food residues from these equipment, while baking soda and vinegar is a more environmentally friendly alternative.

Don’t forget the cabinets, inside and out. Wipe down shelves, remove crumbs and ensure no sticky residue is left behind. Also, clean under and behind the fridge if it was provided with the property.

3. Pay Attention to the Bathrooms

Bathrooms are another high-stakes area for your bond. Start with the tiles, mould and mildew build up is a red flag for property managers. Use mould remover sprays or a mix of baking soda and water with a stiff brush to get rid of it effectively.

Clean all fixtures, including sinks, toilets, bathtubs and shower screens. Remove soap scum, limescale and water stains. Lastly, polish the mirrors and chrome fittings to make them shine like new. Don’t forget to clean the exhaust fan and ensure the drains are unclogged.

4. Don’t Forget the Walls, Windows and Floors

Your floors, windows and walls make up the majority of your property’s visual space. Vacuum and mop all flooring and pay attention to carpet stains or odours. If carpets are heavily soiled, consider professional steam cleaning. For walls, remove any scuff marks, cobwebs or handprints. Magic erasers work wonders for spot cleaning without damaging paint. Clean the windows inside and out, along with window sills and tracks. Sparkling windows create a strong impression during inspection.

5. Gardens and Outdoor Areas

Outdoor areas are often neglected but are part of your lease responsibility. Mow the lawn, trim the hedges and clear out weeds and leaves. Sweep patios, balconies and driveways to remove dust and cobwebs. If you’ve had pets, ensure all droppings are removed and any damage is repaired. Also, clean the outdoor bins and make sure they’re not overflowing. These small efforts show that you’ve maintained the entire property inside and out, which adds to your credibility as a tenant.

6. Repair Minor Damages

Normal wear and tear is expected, but damages like nail holes, broken fittings or stained walls could result in deductions. Patch up small holes, tighten loose screws, and replace any missing or damaged items that came with the property. If you painted any walls or made alterations, restore them to their original state unless you have written permission from the landlord to leave them as is. Leaving the property as you found it is one of the best ways to secure your full bond return.

7. Clean Air Vents, Fans and Light Fixtures

Air vents, exhaust fans and light fittings are easily forgotten but highly visible during inspections. Remove and clean the vents with a vacuum and a damp cloth. Check that fans are free from dust and functioning properly. Light fixtures should be dust-free, and bulbs should be working. If any bulbs are out, replace them before inspection. A well lit, clean space gives a positive impression and shows attention to detail, a key element in bond cleaning Ipswich services.

8. Double Check Appliances and Fixtures

If your property was furnished or included white goods like a dishwasher or washing machine, ensure these are clean and working. Remove any food or detergent residues, wipe rubber seals and leave doors open slightly to avoid odour build-up. Also, check taps and showerheads for leaks, clean filters where applicable and make sure nothing is broken. Landlords appreciate tenants who take good care of the property’s functionality, not just its appearance.

9. Keep a Copy of the Condition Report

Your original condition report is your best friend during move out. Compare the property’s condition now with how it was when you moved in. Take pictures after cleaning to keep a visual record in case of disputes. This proactive approach gives you leverage in conversations with the landlord or real estate agent and ensures that you’re only held accountable for damages or wear that occurred during your tenancy.

10. Hire Professional Help if Needed

If you’re short on time or overwhelmed by the scope of cleaning, hiring professional bond cleaning Ipswich services can be a smart investment. They know exactly what landlords look for and often offer bond back guarantees. Professional cleaners have the tools and expertise to deep clean carpets, sanitise bathrooms, and bring kitchens back to pristine condition, often saving you money in the long run by ensuring your bond is returned in full.

Best Hacks To Reclaim The Full Bond Back

Wrapping Up

Getting your full bond back isn’t about doing the bare minimum; it’s about showing that you’ve respected and cared for the property during your stay. By following these essential tips and paying close attention to the details, you can walk away from your rental with peace of mind and your hard earned money back in your pocket. Whether you’re doing it yourself or relying on experts for bond cleaning Ipswich, planning, effort, and thoroughness are your best allies.