Is Professional Window Cleaning Mandatory at the End of Lease in Perth?
Moving out of a rental property in Perth 6000 WA brings a list of cleaning tasks that can feel overwhelming. Among these, window cleaning often raises questions for tenants: Is professional window cleaning mandatory? What are the specific requirements for Perth properties?
Achieving the right standard of cleanliness for windows is critical for security deposit returns, and many tenants wonder whether they should attempt DIY methods or hire professional end of tenancy cleaners who specialize in meeting Western Australia’s property inspection standards.
Understanding Perth's End of Lease Window Cleaning Requirements
In Perth, end of lease cleaning isn’t just a courtesy—it’s a legal obligation under the Residential Tenancies Act 1987 (WA). You must return your rental in the same condition documented at move-in, minus fair wear and tear.
When you commenced your tenancy, you and your property manager or real estate agent completed a Form 1 Property Condition Report (PCR), noting the state of every surface, including windows, frames, tracks, and screens. At lease end, the landlord must conduct a final inspection—within 14 days of vacating—and compare conditions to this PCR. Any cleaning or repairs beyond “fair wear and tear” can be deducted from your bond, according to Consumer Protection WA.
Windows, mirrors, and glass doors receive special attention during final inspections, as they significantly impact a property’s appearance. Landlords and real estate agents inspect windows closely against the original PCR, and if they’re left dusty, streaked, or limescaled, you risk deductions from your security deposit.
Is Professional Window Cleaning Legally Required for Move-Out?
The short answer: Only if specified in your lease or PCR.
While your lease agreement might not specifically mandate hiring professionals, it does require returning windows to their documented move-in condition. This often necessitates professional-grade cleaning, especially for:
- Properties in coastal suburbs like Cottesloe 6011 WA, Scarborough 6019 WA, and City Beach 6015 WA, where salt spray creates stubborn mineral deposits on glass surfaces
- Homes near major roads in suburbs like Victoria Park 6100 WA and Rivervale 6103 WA, where traffic pollution creates difficult-to-remove grime requiring special detergent
- Northern suburbs like Joondalup 6027 WA and Yanchep 6035 WA, where red dust can stain window tracks and curtain rails
- Southern areas like Rockingham 6168 WA and Mandurah 6210 WA, where high humidity can lead to mold around window seals and bathroom grout
Most professional window cleaners in Perth carry public liability insurance, which provides peace of mind when they’re working on ladders or using pressure washing equipment around your rental property. This attention to safety often justifies the cleaning fee, especially for apartments with balconies or houses with second-story windows.
Perth's Move-Out Window Cleaning Challenges
Perth’s geography and climate create specific window cleaning challenges that require attention during end of lease cleaning:
- Coastal Properties: Homes in Cottesloe 6011 WA, Scarborough 6019 WA, and City Beach 6015 WA face salt spray buildup requiring specialized cleaning solutions and squeegees to prevent streaking.
- Water Stains: Water-borne minerals (calcium, lime) deposit around window frames, especially near reticulation lines and hot water systems. These become permanent if untreated, requiring professional-grade descalers like CLR® to restore glass clarity.
- Track Buildup: Perth’s sandy soil and dust make window track cleaning particularly important. Property managers and real estate agents inspect these areas closely during final inspections, often using a flashlight to check for debris in corners.
Many suburbs in Perth experience unique challenges—from High Wycombe’s dust issues to Fremantle’s salt-laden air that affects glass surfaces in older properties. Following a proper move-out cleaning guide can help ensure you address all these window cleaning challenges systematically before your final inspection.
Comprehensive End of Lease Window Cleaning Checklist
A thorough end of lease window clean must address every component of the window assembly to satisfy real estate agents and landlords during inspection:
1. Glass Panels (Inside & Out)
- Wash with soapy water, rinse and squeegee for streak-free shine
- Treat hard-water spots with CLR or a commercial descaler
- Remove fingerprints, smudges, and water spots from all glass surfaces
- Don’t forget mirrors in bathrooms, bedrooms, and hallways
- Crystal and decorative glass fixtures may need special attention
2. Frames, Ledges & Sills
- Wipe with sugar soap solution or multi-surface cleaner
- Dry thoroughly to prevent mould and maintain hygiene
- Remove dust and cobwebs from corners and spaces
- Check where curtains or blinds meet the window frames
- Clean cabinetry near windows to match overall cleanliness
3. Fly Screens
- Remove screens; dust or vacuum with appropriate attachment
- Wash with mild detergent to remove built-up environmental dirt
- Air-dry fully before refitting to prevent moisture issues
- Check for corrosion on metal screens from coastal air
- Replace damaged screens to avoid bond deductions
4. Tracks & Channels
- Loosen dirt with a stiff-bristle brush or old toothbrush
- Vacuum with a narrow-nozzle attachment to remove debris
- Detail-wipe with a damp cloth or mop head cut to size
- Use a blunt tool (e.g., flat-head screwdriver) to scoop residual grit
- Apply technology like steam cleaning for stubborn grime in older properties
5. External Balustrades & Pool Fencing (if applicable)
- Dust down, then wipe or hose (if safe) all glass panels
- Polish glass and metal posts to match move-in condition
- Check outdoor space transitions like balcony doors
- Ensure safety features are clean and functional
- Address specific suburb challenges (salt spray in Fremantle, red dust in northern areas)
DIY vs. Professional Window Cleaning for Bond Return
When deciding between DIY and professional services, consider these factors that affect your bond return and customer satisfaction:
DIY Window Cleaning Considerations for Move-Out
- Requires proper tools: microfiber cloths, squeegees, telescopic poles, and specialized cleaners for different surfaces
- May struggle with stubborn mineral deposits and water stains on shower glass and windows
- Safety concerns for multi-story homes in suburbs like Coogee 6166 WA and Iluka 6028 WA
- Limited access to hot water extraction or steam cleaning for deep-seated grime
- Need to clean other surfaces like oven, bathroom tiles, and carpet stains simultaneously
Professional Window Cleaning Benefits for Final Inspection
- Access to commercial-grade solutions for mineral deposits and pressure washing equipment
- Many Perth window cleaners offer bond-back guarantees with customer service support
- Professionals are trained and insured with public liability insurance for elevated work
- More efficient, typically completing window cleaning for a standard house in 2-4 hours
- Often use environmentally friendly cleaning products that are safe for children and pets
- Can clean solar panels and high windows that are otherwise inaccessible
- Expertise in dealing with Western Australia’s unique environmental challenges
Inside vs. Outside Window Cleaning: What's Required at Lease End
- Interior Windows: Universally tenant responsibility in all property types.
- Exterior, Ground-Level Windows & Balustrades: Required if accessible without specialist equipment.
- High-Reach or Strata-Managed Windows: Often excluded for safety/liability; check your lease and strata bylaws.
Property Type Window Cleaning Considerations
Apartments (Strata)
- Internal windows & balcony glass: Tenant’s duty
- External façade windows: Typically strata’s responsibility, unless lease states otherwise
- Strata-managed apartments often outsource external, high-reach windows to the owners corporation
Single-Storey Houses
- All windows, inside and out, fall under the tenant’s cleaning scope
- Regular cleaning during tenancy prevents difficult end-of-lease cleaning
Multi-Storey Homes/Townhouses
- Internal windows: Mandatory
- External windows: Check lease; if unspecified, clarify with your property manager before vacating
What Perth Property Managers Expect for Window Cleanliness
Perth property managers inspect windows closely against the original Property Condition Report (PCR). They typically look for:
- Windows matching their move-in state – Even minor smudges or cobwebs can raise red flags during a bond inspection
- Streak-free glass on all accessible windows
- Clean tracks and frames free of dust and insects
- No water spots or calcium buildup
- Clean windowsills free of dust and marks
If windows are left dusty, streaked, or limescaled, you risk deductions from your security bond.
Regional Window Cleaning Variations Across Perth
Different areas in Perth have specific window cleaning requirements based on their location and environmental factors that affect your bond return:
- Northern Suburbs: Joondalup 6027 WA, Wanneroo 6065 WA, and Butler 6036 WA properties commonly have sand infiltration in window tracks requiring detailed cleaning. Air conditioning units can circulate this dust throughout the house, affecting windows in bedrooms and living areas.
- Southern Suburbs: Rockingham 6168 WA, Mandurah 6210 WA, and Secret Harbour 6173 WA face salt spray issues that require specialized cleaning solutions. Ocean-facing windows and balcony doors may need additional attention to remove mineral buildup.
- Eastern Suburbs: Midland 6056 WA, Guildford 6055 WA, and Kalamunda 6076 WA often have harder water leading to more mineral deposits on windows, shower screens, and bathroom tiles. These areas may require stronger descaling products.
- Western Suburbs: Cottesloe 6011 WA, Claremont 6010 WA, and Mosman Park 6012 WA experience intensive salt spray requiring thorough treatment. Higher-priced rental properties in these areas often face stricter inspection standards from real estate agents.
- Central Areas: Perth CBD 6000 WA and surrounding apartment buildings face issues with traffic pollution on exterior windows. High-rise buildings require specialized equipment and often rely on strata arrangements for external window cleaning.
These regional variations are why many tenants choose local bond cleaning specialists who understand the unique window cleaning challenges of specific Perth neighborhoods and have the right technology and expertise for each suburb’s needs.
Tools & Products for Effective Move-Out Window Cleaning
For DIY window cleaning that meets real estate inspection standards, you’ll need:
- Microfiber cloths & lint-free towels to avoid streaking on glass surfaces
- Squeegees (200 mm–350 mm blades) for large windows and shower screens
- Telescopic extension poles for high windows and ceiling fans
- Stiff-bristle brushes (for tracks) and soft brushes for delicate surfaces
- Vacuum cleaner with crevice/nozzle attachment for debris in window tracks
- Sugar soap or mild ammoniated cleaner for window frames
- Glass-safe descalers (e.g., CLR®) for calcium deposits in bathrooms
- CLR for hard water stains on kitchen sink and windows
- Mop with extension handle for high or difficult to reach areas
- Steam cleaning equipment for stubborn dirt in tracks (can be rented)
- Environmentally friendly detergents that won’t damage flooring or furniture
- Personal protective equipment: gloves, safety glasses, slip-resistant footwear
- Ladder with stable footing for second-story windows (follow safety protocols)
- Pressure washer for exterior windows (careful with the pressure setting to avoid damage)
Most cleaning services in Perth will bring commercial-grade equipment including purified water systems that leave no residue on glass—technology that provides streak-free results difficult to achieve with DIY methods.
Window Cleaning Safety & Documentation
Safety Precautions When Cleaning Windows
- Ladder safety: Use stable footing; avoid overreaching
- Harnesses & fall arrest: For high windows, engage licensed professionals
Documentation for Window Cleaning Bond Protection
Whatever cleaning approach you choose, protect your bond by:
- Taking dated “before” & “after” photos of each window to present during the final inspection
- Keeping receipts if you hire professional services
- Referencing the original Property Condition Report during cleaning
- Attending the final inspection if possible
Frequently Asked Questions About End of Lease Window Cleaning
Is professional window cleaning mandatory at move-out?
Only if specified in your lease or PCR. The Residential Tenancies Act 1987 (WA) doesn’t explicitly require professional cleaning; it only states the property must be returned in the same condition as documented at move-in, allowing for normal wear and tear. However, in properties with significant mineral buildup, salt deposits, or high windows, DIY cleaning may not achieve the standard required for bond return. Many Perth property managers and real estate agents can identify professionally cleaned windows versus amateur attempts, especially when dealing with stubborn water marks and salt residue common in coastal suburbs like Fremantle and Cottesloe. Bathroom glass surfaces and shower screens often require particular attention due to soap scum buildup and hard water stains.
How much does professional window cleaning add to a bond clean?
Expect an additional $5–$15 per window, depending on complexity and height. For a standard 3-bedroom home in Perth with approximately 10-12 windows, this typically adds $75-$150 to your move-out costs. Properties in coastal areas like Cottesloe 6011 WA or Scarborough 6019 WA may cost more due to salt treatment requirements. Many companies offer package deals when window cleaning is booked alongside full bond cleaning services, potentially saving 10-15% compared to separate bookings. Most professional services include interior glass, frames, tracks, and sills in their standard pricing. For apartments with balconies or homes with solar panels, there may be additional fees. Always check whether the company carries public liability insurance and offers a bond-back guarantee, ensuring customer satisfaction and peace of mind.
What if my lease doesn't mention windows?
Refer to the PCR. If windows were marked “clean” at move-in, you must restore them to that condition regardless of specific lease wording. Perth property managers typically photograph windows during initial inspections, providing a clear baseline for comparison. If your PCR lacks detail about window condition, it’s advisable to thoroughly clean all visible surfaces—glass, frames, tracks, and fly screens—to avoid potential disputes. Keep dated photographs of your cleaned windows as evidence. If you’re unsure about specific window cleaning requirements, contact your property manager for clarification before your final inspection to prevent unexpected bond deductions. Many landlords in Western Australia use a comprehensive checklist during inspections that includes not just windows but also kitchen appliances, bathroom fixtures, carpet cleanliness, and cupboard interiors.
How do I clean high windows in two-story homes?
For windows that require ladders or specialized equipment, consider your safety first. Professional window cleaners have liability insurance, proper equipment, and training for elevated work. If attempting DIY, use telescopic poles with squeegee attachments, available at most hardware stores in Perth. Never stand on furniture or improvised platforms. For truly inaccessible windows, communicate with your property manager before the inspection—they may accept professional receipts or make reasonable allowances based on access limitations. Technology like pure water systems used by professionals can reach up to three stories with no ladder requirements.
What special considerations apply to Perth's coastal properties?
Homes within 5km of the coast require special attention to salt residue, which can etch glass if left untreated. Use vinegar solutions or specialized marine-grade glass cleaners. Window tracks in coastal areas accumulate salt crystals that regular vacuuming might miss—use a stiff brush followed by a damp cloth. Stainless steel window fittings may show signs of corrosion that need polishing. Screens facing the ocean often accumulate fine salt particles requiring thorough washing rather than just dusting. Balcony glass needs particular attention as it’s directly exposed to sea spray. Many customers in suburbs like City Beach and Cottesloe opt for professional cleaning services with spring cleaning packages specifically designed for coastal properties.
Conclusion
Window cleaning is a critical component of end of lease duties in Perth, WA. By understanding the legal obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act 1987 (WA), preparing with the right tools, and knowing when to call in professionals, you can confidently restore your windows—and your bond—to their original condition.
While professional window cleaning isn’t explicitly mandatory unless specified in your lease, the standard expected by property managers and real estate agents often necessitates professional-grade results, especially for properties in challenging areas like coastal suburbs or multi-story homes with balconies and difficult-to-reach glass surfaces.
Attention to detail makes the difference between passing and failing an inspection. From streak-free glass in the bathroom to spotless tile grout, kitchen cupboards, and crystal-clear shower screens, professional cleaners provide peace of mind through their expertise, equipment, and customer service guarantees.
Always cross-check your lease agreement and Property Condition Report before vacating, and keep clear photographic evidence to safeguard your bond return, as recommended by Consumer Protection WA. Remember that many landlords consider windows to be a reflection of overall property cleanliness standards.
