The standard is reasonably clean
The Residential Tenancies Act 1986 says that when a tenancy ends, a tenant must leave the premises in a reasonably clean and reasonably tidy condition and remove their rubbish. The test is what an average, reasonable person would consider clean and tidy. The Tenancy Tribunal has said this does not mean spotless, commercially clean or a hotel standard, as set out in this Tribunal order.
A clause requiring professional carpet cleaning may also go beyond the law. Tenancy Services considers one likely to be unenforceable, according to this summary from PR Law. If a dispute comes up, ask Tenancy Services or a lawyer about your situation, as this page is general information.
Room-by-room checklist
| Area | Check |
|---|---|
| Kitchen | Benches, sink, cupboards, stovetop, oven, rangehood and appliance fronts |
| Bathrooms and toilets | Shower, glass, tiles, vanity, mirror, toilet and floor |
| Bedrooms and living areas | Sills, reachable surfaces, wardrobes, marks you can wipe off and floors |
| Laundry and storage | Tub, lint and dust, shelves and rubbish |
| Outside | Rubbish removed, lawn mowed, simple weeding done and leaves swept |
| Before you hand over | Keys returned, personal items removed and photos taken |
Protect yourself
- Take photos of each room and the outside when you finish.
- Compare them with your entry inspection and photos.
- Keep any cleaning invoice with your tenancy records.
- Talk to your landlord or property manager early if something is disputed.
When a professional clean makes sense
You may not need one. It can still help if you have run out of time, the oven or shower needs work, or you are moving from another city. We can quote the whole property or only the parts you want help with. See our end-of-lease cleaning service.
Updated 2 November 2026. General information, not legal advice.