Can my landlord take money from my bond for cleaning in the ACT?
Yes, your landlord can take money from your bond for cleaning in the ACT if you do not leave the property reasonably clean. However, they cannot charge you if the home is in the same condition as when you moved in, excluding normal fair wear and tear.
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How it works in practice
Understanding the rules around cleaning and bond deductions in the ACT can help you protect your money when moving out.
Legal Standard for Cleaning in the ACT
In the Australian Capital Territory, the law requires you to leave your rental property in a "reasonable state of cleanliness." This means the home must be returned in substantially the same condition as when your tenancy began, aside from normal aging.
Fair Wear and Tear
Landlords are strictly prohibited from deducting bond money to clean everyday fair wear and tear. If your carpet is slightly worn from walking or curtains are faded from sunlight, these are considered standard living deteriorations. You are not financially responsible for making the property look completely brand new.
Unreasonable Cleaning Demands
Many landlords try to mandate professional cleaning when you move out. Under ACT tenancy laws, landlords generally cannot enforce a blanket rule requiring a professional clean just because your lease ends. You have the right to clean the property yourself to the required legal standard and save money.
Disputing Unfair Charges
If you leave the property reasonably clean and your landlord still tries to claim a portion of your bond for a cleaning service, you do not have to accept the charge. You can challenge the deduction formally through the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal, which will review the condition reports and decide if the claim is valid.
Important exceptions
While landlords cannot typically enforce professional cleaning, a key exception exists if you have kept a pet at the property. Under ACT tenancy laws, if your landlord agreed to let you have a pet, they can include a special condition requiring professional carpet cleaning or pest control when you vacate.
Additionally, if the property was professionally cleaned immediately before you moved in, and this was clearly documented in the initial condition report along with receipts, you may be required to return it to that identical professionally cleaned standard.
What you should do now
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Review your initial condition report to understand exactly how clean the property was when you first moved in.
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Check your tenancy agreement for any specific, legally binding clauses regarding pets and mandatory professional carpet cleaning.
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Thoroughly clean the property yourself, paying special attention to standard problem areas like ovens, bathrooms, and windows.
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Take clear, detailed photographs of every room after you finish cleaning as evidence of the property's final condition.
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Lodge your bond refund claim directly with the ACT Revenue Office as soon as you hand back the keys to prevent unauthorized deductions.
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