How to Ensure You Get Your Bond Back with a Professional End of Lease Cleaning

Moving out of a rental can feel overwhelming, especially when your bond is on the line. The key to getting your full deposit back? A spotless clean. That’s where end of lease cleaning steps in. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything—from legal requirements to hiring professionals—so you can leave stress behind and your rental in top shape.

What Is Bond Cleaning?

Bond cleaning (also known as end of lease cleaning or exit cleaning) is a deep, detailed clean required by landlords or property managers at the end of your lease. It’s more than your usual weekly tidy-up.

The goal? To return the property to its original condition (excluding normal wear and tear). If the property isn’t up to scratch, you risk losing part—or all—of your bond.

Why Tenants Commonly Lose Their Bond

Many renters don’t realize how easy it is to forfeit their deposit. Here are the usual suspects:

Poor cleaning – Think oven grime, dusty window tracks, and cobwebs.

Property damage – Beyond basic wear.

Unreturned keys or remotes – Small details, big impact.

Unpaid rent or bills – These are deducted directly from your bond.

Pest issues – Especially if pets were in the property.

Being aware of these common pitfalls is your first step toward full bond recovery.

What’s Included in a Professional End of Lease Clean?

Professional cleaners go far beyond sweeping and wiping surfaces. They follow a strict checklist, often aligned with REINSW or other real estate standards, to cover:

Every room: Walls, ceilings, light fittings, and skirting boards.

Carpet steam cleaning: A common lease requirement.

Kitchen: Ovens, range hoods, cupboards, splashbacks.

Bathroom: Showers, grout, mirrors, fixtures.

Windows: Inside and out (where accessible).

Garage & outdoor areas: Tidy and swept.

Why Hire Professional Cleaners?

✅ Save Time & Stress

Moving is chaotic enough. Cleaning your entire home on top of packing and logistics? No thanks. Let the experts handle it.

✅ Guaranteed Quality

Professionals know exactly what property managers look for and clean to those standards.

✅ Right Tools for the Job

With commercial-grade equipment and eco-friendly products, they’ll clean deeper and faster than household tools ever could.

High-Inspection Areas to Watch

Landlords pay extra attention to these hotspots:

Kitchen

Oven interiors

Range hoods

Inside cupboards

Dishwashers and splashbacks

Bathrooms

Grime and mould on tiles

Shower screens and toilets

Polished mirrors and grout lines

Floors and Carpets

Mopped floorboards

Steam-cleaned carpets

Edges and corners free of dust

Walls and Windows

No scuff marks or fingerprints

Clean window sills and fly screens

Tracks free from debris

Prepping Your Home for the Cleaners

Before the cleaning team arrives, make sure to:

Remove all furniture (unless it’s a furnished rental)

Patch minor nail holes

Defrost and air out the fridge

Keep utilities connected until after cleaning

These steps make it easier for cleaners to do a thorough job—and improve your chances of a full bond refund.

Choosing the Right End of Lease Cleaner

Not all cleaners are created equal. Look for:

Verified reviews on independent platforms

Clear, upfront pricing

Experience with end of lease cleans

Flexible booking options

Always get a written quote and service agreement that includes what’s covered, timelines, and any bond-back guarantees.

Mistakes That Could Cost You Your Bond

Even with the best intentions, mistakes happen. Avoid these:

DIY cleaning without the right tools or time

Forgetting to clean outdoor areas

Missing the final inspection deadline

Not checking the real estate agent’s cleaning checklist

Leaving the property untidy after the cleaners leave

Attention to detail is everything.

FAQs

Q: Is professional cleaning required to get my bond back?

A: It depends on your lease. But most agents expect a professional-level clean—especially for carpets and appliances.

Q: How long does it take?

A: Anywhere from 3 to 8 hours, depending on property size and condition.

Q: What if the landlord isn’t happy?

A: Most pros offer a bond-back guarantee and return to fix any issues at no extra cost.

Q: Can I clean it myself?

A: Yes—but it must meet agent expectations. If not, your bond may be withheld.

Q: Do I need cleaning receipts for the bond?

A: Often, yes. Particularly for steam cleaning or pest control.

Q: Is oven cleaning included?

A: Definitely. It's one of the first things landlords inspect.

Final Thoughts

Getting your bond back doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right prep, a trustworthy cleaning team, and a clear understanding of landlord expectations, you’ll be in a strong position to reclaim your full deposit.

🔍 Pro Tip: Want to know the real cost of end of lease cleaning? Learn how pricing works, what influences the total cost, and how to avoid hidden fees before you book.