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Window cleaning might seem like a minor task, but it can become a major point of contention between landlords and tenants. Keeping glass surfaces clean ensures natural light, comfort, and kerb appeal, but who’s actually responsible for doing it? The answer depends on what’s written in your tenancy agreement, the condition of the property, and the practicality of the cleaning tasks involved.
Understanding your rights and responsibilities from the outset can help avoid costly or stressful disputes later. Whether you’re a landlord preparing a property for lease or a tenant moving in, this guide breaks down the key aspects of window cleaning responsibilities and explains how professional services, such as those offered by Bax Clean, can help.
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Window cleaning and tenancy agreements
A rental agreement is a crucial component of any landlord-tenant relationship. It is the primary document for stipulating their roles and responsibilities, and it serves as a reference point in the event of any dispute between the parties.
Developing a rental agreement allows both parties to propose specific conditions regarding their respective roles. A tenant can motivate the landlord to take on some responsibilities (like window cleaning) if there is a reasonable justification for doing so. On the other hand, the landlord can also specify specific obligations for the tenant.
In most cases, the tenant is responsible for day-to-day cleaning, while the landlord is responsible for maintaining the property in a safe and livable condition.
According to Consumer Affairs Victoria, cleaning responsibilities should always be clearly documented to avoid confusion. If the agreement doesn’t specify window cleaning, the general rule applies: tenants handle regular cleaning, and landlords address maintenance or inaccessible windows.
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Understanding the finer details of your tenancy agreement
While the tenancy agreement sets the overall framework, it’s the finer details that determine how window cleaning responsibilities play out in practice. This section should go beyond simply restating duties; it’s about identifying what to double-check before signing to ensure there are no grey areas. The aim is to ensure both parties know exactly what’s expected, who pays for what, and when professional cleaning might be required.
Here’s a practical pre-signing checklist to use:
- Review the agreement for any specific window cleaning clauses or obligations.
- Clarify how frequently windows need to be cleaned and to what standard.
- Specify whether tenants are expected to arrange professional cleaning or handle basic upkeep.
- Document the current condition of windows in the Condition Report and include clear photos.
- Check who is responsible for exterior or high-access windows requiring specialists.
- Include any additional notes about shared areas or external window access for cleaners.
By confirming these details early, landlords and tenants can avoid assumptions, protect their bond or investment, and keep the property’s presentation at a consistently high standard.
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Do tenants have to clean outside windows?
During a tenancy, the relationship between a landlord and tenant is governed by the rental agreement, which lists the roles and responsibilities for the rental property. Generally, tenants are responsible for keeping the premises clean, including the windows they can safely reach.
However, tenants are not expected to risk their safety or perform tasks that require specialist equipment. For instance, if you’re living in a high-rise apartment, the landlord or property manager should arrange professional help, such as apartment window cleaning or high-rise rope access.
If your lease doesn’t mention exterior window cleaning explicitly, a good rule of thumb is:
- Tenants clean what’s safely reachable without ladders or special equipment.
- Landlords take responsibility for elevated or difficult-to-access windows.
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When is the landlord responsible for window cleaning?
Landlords have a duty to provide a clean, safe, and habitable property at the beginning of each tenancy. The responsibility for preparing the property for occupancy lies with the landlord. It is their responsibility to ensure that the property is safe, secure and clean.
Here are the key times a landlord must take responsibility for window cleaning:
- Before a new tenant moves in: Windows should be cleaned to an acceptable standard.
- When windows are unsafe for the tenant to reach: Such as high or double-storey areas, where professional help like double-storey window cleaning is required.
- When windows need repair or replacement: Damaged or faulty windows fall under the landlord’s maintenance duties.
- In commercial or managed properties: Professional cleaning of shared glass areas is typically handled by the landlord or building manager.
Landlords can easily arrange regular cleaning services through professionals like Bax Clean to maintain property value and ensure compliance with tenancy laws.
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End of tenancy window cleaning: What’s expected from tenants
According to the Residential Tenancies Act, tenants must hand over the premises in comparable condition to their initial state, ensuring that windows, fixtures, and fittings reflect a standard of cleanliness consistent with the start of the lease.
To meet end of tenancy window cleaning expectations, tenants should:
- Review the Condition Report from when they moved in.
- Wipe down interior glass, frames, and sills.
- Remove fingerprints, dirt, or insect marks.
- Clean accessible exterior windows where possible.
- Arrange professional cleaning if windows are heavily soiled or hard to reach.
- Provide receipts for cleaning services, if requested, as proof of compliance.
Professional cleaners can help meet vacate standards efficiently. Bax Clean’s window cleaning service is perfect for final inspections. Get in touch today.
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How to avoid disputes over window cleaning responsibilities
Disagreements about window cleaning are common but easily preventable. To avoid misunderstandings:
- Put all cleaning clauses in writing within the rental agreement.
- Keep communication open between landlords, tenants, and property managers.
- Schedule periodic inspections and note the window condition.
- Hire professional cleaners for hard-to-reach or specialised windows, such as skylight cleaning.
- Refer to state tenancy guidelines (like Consumer Affairs Victoria) for clarity on shared duties.
- Ensure professional services are used where safety or accessibility is an issue.
With the right documentation and communication, both parties can enjoy a clean property without tension.
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Get professional window cleaning for tenants and landlords
Whether you’re a landlord preparing for new tenants or a renter looking to meet your end-of-lease obligations, Bax Clean provides tailored window cleaning services across Melbourne.
From townhouses to office buildings, our experienced team delivers streak-free results and complete peace of mind.
Contact Bax Clean today for professional, compliant, and reliable window cleaning services that meet the needs of both landlords and tenants.
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