When a tenancy ends, emotions can run high. Tenants often believe they know what’s required at vacate — but many of those beliefs don’t line up with Queensland tenancy law.
Understanding the difference between common end-of-lease myths and what the legislation actually requires can help avoid disputes, delays to bond refunds, and unnecessary stress for everyone involved.
Below, we break down the most common misunderstandings and explain what the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (Qld) actually says.
Myth 1: “I only need to leave the property reasonably clean”
What tenants often think
A quick clean is enough — especially if the property wasn’t spotless when they moved in.
What the legislation says
Under Queensland law, tenants must leave the property in the same condition it was in at the start of the tenancy, less fair wear and tear.
This means:
The entry condition report sets the benchmark
The property must be returned as clean as it was at the start, not just “acceptable”
If it was professionally cleaned at entry, professional cleaning is usually expected at exit
 Myth 2: “Fair wear and tear means I don’t have to fix anything”
What tenants often think
Any damage is wear and tear — especially if they’ve lived there for a while.
What the legislation says
Fair wear and tear refers to natural deterioration from normal, everyday use — not neglect, damage, or misuse.
Examples of fair wear and tear:
Not fair wear and tear:
Holes in walls
Broken fixtures
Stains, burns, or pet damage
Excessive mould caused by lack of ventilation
Any damage to the property that is due to an accident, misuse or neglect
Tenants are responsible for damage beyond fair wear and tear.
 Myth 3: “Bond automatically covers everything”
What tenants often think
Any cleaning or repairs can just come out of the bond.
What the legislation says
The bond is not a blank cheque.
If the bond is insufficient to cover:
…the tenant may still be required to pay the shortfall.
Likewise, landlords must be able to justify any bond claim with evidence such as condition reports, invoices, or photos.
Myth 5: “If something breaks near the end, it’s the owner’s problem”
What tenants often think
Timing means responsibility shifts to the landlord.
What the legislation says
Tenants are responsible for damage caused during the tenancy, regardless of when it occurs.
If an item is damaged due to an accident, misuse or neglect — even on the last day — the tenant may still be liable.
 Myth 6: “I can claim the bond as soon as I hand back the keys”
What tenants often think
Once keys are returned, the bond is automatically theirs.
What the legislation says
The bond can only be finalised once all end-of-lease obligations are complete and all parties agree, including:
Final inspection
Cleaning
Repairs
Outstanding invoices
Rent paid to vacate date
Both parties have the right to lodge a bond claim, and disputes are managed through the RTA process if agreement can’t be reached.
 Why End-of-Lease Clarity Matters
Many disputes at vacate don’t come from bad intentions — they come from misunderstanding the law.
Clear expectations, accurate condition reports, and professional property management help ensure:
Tenants know what’s required
Landlords protect their asset
Bond refunds are handled fairly and lawfully
 A Final Word for Tenants & Landlords in Queensland
End-of-lease doesn’t need to be adversarial. When everyone understands what Queensland legislation actually requires, the process becomes smoother, faster, and far less stressful.
If you’re unsure about your obligations — whether you’re a tenant preparing to vacate or a landlord navigating the finalisation process — professional advice makes all the difference.
Need Help Navigating an End-of-Lease?
Our Property Management team ensures every vacate is handled
fairly, transparently, and in line with Queensland legislation - protecting both tenants and landlords at every step. Or you can contact the Residential Tenancy Authority for guidance and advice
http://www.rta.qld.gov.auReach out to our team for guidance or support.
