When you are preparing to move out of your current rental property in Auckland, one of your main concerns is how to get your bond back. Getting your bond back depends on the current condition of the rental property and the final inspection report. If you follow the correct end-of-tenancy cleaning checklist and use the right cleaning tools, you can easily clean your rental property as per the landlord’s requirements and get your bond back in Auckland. In this guide, you will know exactly what to clean at the end of tenancy, how to clean it effectively, and how to increase your chance to get the full bond back at the end of the lease in Auckland.
Why Does Home Cleaning Matter in Bond Back?
We all know that when you move into a new property, you get a clean and well-maintained property. So, when you leave it out, you also need to return it in the same condition without wear and tear. Under the Residential Tenancies Act of New Zealand, tenants are required to leave the property in a reasonably clean and tidy state. Many landlords conduct a final inspection using their checklist, and if you missed anything, they deduct your bond amount. To avoid all these things, you need to clean your rental property properly at the end of tenancy to get your bond back.
What Do You Understand About the Bond Rules of Auckland?
You may know that your bond is held by the Tenancy Bond Centre, and if you want to claim your bond amount, then you have to submit a bond claim form signed by both parties. If you want to return the full bond amount, then:
- Your rental property must be cleaned properly.
- Damaged parts are repaired beyond fair wear and tear.
- Your rent of property must be fully paid.
- All property keys and provided devices must be returned.
If any party disagrees with the bond claim, then it can be solved through the Tenancy Tribunal.
What Are the End-of-Tenancy Cleaning Checklists?
If you want to ensure smooth cleaning at the end of tenancy, then follow these checklists:
1. Kitchen Cleaning Checklist:
The kitchen is often one of the hardest-working areas of the home, and it gets more attention during the final inspection. It includes tasks like
- Clean both inside and outside all cupboards and drawers.
- Be sure to wipe splashbacks, benchtops, and cupboard doors.
- Degrease range hood filters and exhaust fans.
- Remove burnt foods and greases from the oven, racks, and trays.
- Clean and polish, if required, the sink, taps, and drain areas.
- Ensure to sweep and mop the floors.
- Scrub the refrigerator inside and outside.
- Clean and repair all light switches and fans.
2. Bathroom Cleaning Checklist:
Your bathroom should be hygienic and free from mold, stains, and soap residue. It includes tasks like
- Must remove soap scum from showers and baths.
- Be sure to clean and disinfect sinks, taps, and toilet rails.
- Clean light fittings, exhaust fans, and switches.
- Remove hair and debris from the drain.
- Clean the mirrors with streak-free glass cleaner.
- Ensure to mop the floor and dry it.
3. Bedrooms and Living Areas Cleaning Checklist:
Clean these areas so that they look fresh, dust-free, and well presented. It included the following tasks:
- Dusting all surfaces, including doors, shelves, and furniture, to remove dust and fingerprints.
- Wipe skirting boards, windows, and light switches.
- Ensure to remove cobwebs from corners and ceilings.
- Clean the walls and make sure to remove all marks from them.
- Clean vents, fans, and the air conditioner, and make sure they are working.
4. Laundry and Garage Cleaning Checklist:
These areas are often overlooked, but they are included in most bond cleaning inspections. It included the following tasks:
- Clean and disinfect laundry taps and the sink.
- Ensure to sweep and mop the floors.
- Remove all damaged parts of vehicles from the garage.
- Properly clean electric appliances.
- Remove lint from the dryer and filters.
5. Outdoor Areas Cleaning Checklist:
You must clean the exterior part. It includes tasks like
- Remove all personal items.
- Clean the pathways and balcony of the house.
- Cut the grass and plant branches that come in the pathway.
- Remove all dead plants from the garden.
How to Prepare for the Final Inspection to Protect Your Bond?
You will receive an inspection notice from the landlord; after that, prepare yourself for the final inspection by following these steps:
- Review your move-in condition report and compare the property condition.
- Fixed all damaged parts if required.
- Properly clean the entire property.
- Remove all your personal items and rubbish.
- Check every corner for missed spots before inspection.
- Take clear photos of the entire property as proof.
Conclusion:
Exit cleaning not only enhances your chance to get your bond back but also leaves an impression on your landlord. If you want to get your full bond back in Auckland, then it’s all about preparation and attention to detail. Whether you do your leased house cleaning by yourself or by hiring a professional cleaner in Auckland, follow the above checklist, which helps you to increase your chances of getting the full bond back at the end of tenancy. If you properly clean your rental property and have proper documents, then you can easily get your bond back.
FAQs Regarding End of Tenancy Cleaning and Get Your Bond Back in Auckland:
Q.1 What happens if I miss something during the end-of-lease cleaning?
Ans: The landlord may ask you to fix it quickly or may deduct some repair costs from your bond. If you follow a correct cleaning checklist, it reduces the chances of missing anything and increases your chances of getting the full bond back.
Q.2 Is professional cleaning mandatory in Auckland?
Ans: No, it is not mandatory, but you have to meet the cleaning standard defined by Tenancy Services to get your bond back at the end of tenancy.
Q.3 How long does it take to receive the bond refund?
Ans: If you submit the bond refund form signed by both parties to Tenancy Services, then it usually takes a few days to weeks to process a bond refund claim. After that, you will receive your bond refund amount in the provided bank account.
