Complete Guide to Bond Cleaning: Get Your Full Deposit Back

What Is Bond Cleaning?

Bond cleaning, also known as end of lease cleaning or exit cleaning, is the comprehensive cleaning required when you vacate a rental property in Australia. The goal is to return the property to the same condition it was in at the start of your tenancy, accounting for fair wear and tear.

Your rental bond (typically 4 weeks’ rent) is held by the relevant state authority and will only be fully refunded if the property meets the landlord’s and real estate agent’s cleanliness standards.

Why Bond Cleaning Matters

Financial Impact:

• Average bonds range from $1,600 to $3,200+ depending on your rent
• Common cleaning deductions range from $150 to $800
• Professional bond cleaning costs $250-$600 (much less than losing your bond)

Rental History:

• A disputed bond can affect future rental applications
• Real estate references are crucial in competitive markets
• A clean exit maintains your rental reputation

Legal Requirements: Each Australian state and territory has specific tenancy laws requiring you to leave the property “reasonably clean” considering:

• The condition at the start of tenancy
• Normal wear and tear
• Length of tenancy

State-by-State Bond Cleaning Requirements

New South Wales (NSW)

• Bond Authority: Rental Bonds Online (Fair Trading NSW)
• Notice Period: 14 days inspection notice required
• Key Requirement: Property must be “reasonably clean” per Residential Tenancies Act 2010
• Carpet Cleaning: Not legally required unless specified in lease or significantly soiled
• Dispute Process: NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT)

Victoria (VIC)

• Bond Authority: Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA)
• Notice Period: Final inspection usually within 7 days of lease end
• Key Requirement: Must be in same condition as at commencement (minus fair wear)
• Carpet Cleaning: Only if specified in lease agreement or heavily soiled
• Dispute Process: Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT)

Queensland (QLD)

• Bond Authority: Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA)
• Notice Period: Entry condition report is mandatory
• Key Requirement: “Reasonably clean” standard
• Carpet Cleaning: Must be professionally cleaned if specified in General Tenancy Agreement
• Dispute Process: Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT)

Western Australia (WA)

• Bond Authority: Bond Administrator (Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety)
• Notice Period: 7 days notice for final inspection
• Key Requirement: Same state as commencement minus fair wear
• Carpet Cleaning: Professional cleaning if dirty, not routine
• Dispute Process: Magistrates Court

South Australia (SA)

• Bond Authority: Consumer and Business Services (CBS)
• Notice Period: Right to attend final inspection
• Key Requirement: Cleaned to same standard as start of tenancy
• Carpet Cleaning: Professional cleaning if not reasonably clean
• Dispute Process: South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT)

Tasmania (TAS)

• Bond Authority: Residential Tenancy Commissioner (RTC)
• Notice Period: 2 weeks inspection notice
• Key Requirement: “Reasonably clean” considering tenancy length
• Carpet Cleaning: Only if specified or significantly soiled
• Dispute Process: Residential Tenancy Commissioner

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

• Bond Authority: ACT Government (Office of Rental Bonds)
• Notice Period: Access rules apply for inspections
• Key Requirement: Same condition as entry condition report
• Carpet Cleaning: If damaged or excessively dirty
• Dispute Process: ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT)

Northern Territory (NT)

• Bond Authority: Territory Housing (Department of Housing)
• Notice Period: Reasonable notice for inspection
• Key Requirement: Reasonable cleanliness standard
• Carpet Cleaning: If required to restore condition
• Dispute Process: Northern Territory Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NTCAT)

Room-by-Room Bond Cleaning Checklist

Kitchen (Highest Priority Area)

Oven and Cooktop:

• ✅ Remove all racks and trays, soak and scrub
• ✅ Clean inside oven walls, roof, floor, and door
• ✅ Clean between oven door glass panels
• ✅ Remove all burnt-on food and grease
• ✅ Clean oven seal
• ✅ Polish exterior including control panel
• ✅ Clean under and behind if accessible
• ✅ Scrub all burners and drip trays
• ✅ Clean gas jets or electric elements

Rangehood and Exhaust:

• ✅ Remove and degrease filters (or replace if damaged)
• ✅ Clean inside rangehood cavity
• ✅ Wipe exterior and controls
• ✅ Clean rangehood light cover

Cupboards and Drawers:

• ✅ Empty completely
• ✅ Wipe inside all shelves and drawers
• ✅ Clean drawer runners and hinges
• ✅ Wipe exterior doors and handles
• ✅ Clean top of cupboards (major dust collector)

Benchtops and Splashbacks:

• ✅ Remove all items
• ✅ Deep clean grout between tiles
• ✅ Remove stains from benchtops
• ✅ Clean behind taps and appliances
• ✅ Polish all surfaces

Sink Area:

• ✅ Scrub sink bowl and remove stains
• ✅ Clean and polish taps
• ✅ Clean drain and overflow
• ✅ Scrub around sink edge and sealant

Appliances:

• ✅ Clean inside and outside of dishwasher
• ✅ Run dishwasher cleaning cycle
• ✅ Clean dishwasher filter
• ✅ Wipe down fridge exterior (if staying)
• ✅ Clean microwave inside and out

Floors:

• ✅ Sweep and mop thoroughly
• ✅ Clean baseboards/skirting boards
• ✅ Remove marks and scuffs
• ✅ Clean corners and edges

Bathrooms (Second Highest Priority)

Shower and Bath:

• ✅ Remove all mould and mildew from tiles
• ✅ Clean grout and restore whiteness
• ✅ Scrub glass shower screen or clean shower curtain
• ✅ Remove soap scum and water marks
• ✅ Clean shower tracks thoroughly
• ✅ Polish all chrome fixtures
• ✅ Clean shower head (descale if needed)
• ✅ Scrub bath including underneath rim
• ✅ Clean and reseal silicone if mouldy

Toilet:

• ✅ Scrub bowl thoroughly including under rim
• ✅ Clean toilet seat and hinges
• ✅ Wipe outside of toilet including base
• ✅ Clean behind toilet
• ✅ Polish flush button or handle

Vanity and Sink:

• ✅ Clean inside vanity cupboards
• ✅ Wipe all surfaces
• ✅ Scrub sink and remove stains
• ✅ Polish taps and remove limescale
• ✅ Clean mirror (streak-free)
• ✅ Clean vanity drawers inside and out

Other Bathroom Items:

• ✅ Clean exhaust fan cover and inside
• ✅ Wipe light fittings
• ✅ Clean towel rails
• ✅ Wipe down tiles on walls
• ✅ Mop floor thoroughly
• ✅ Clean skirting boards

Laundry:

• ✅ Clean inside and around washing machine
• ✅ Wipe down laundry tub
• ✅ Clean drain
• ✅ Wipe cupboards inside and out
• ✅ Sweep and mop floor

Living Areas and Bedrooms

Walls:

• ✅ Remove all picture hooks and fill holes
• ✅ Spot clean marks and scuffs
• ✅ Wash walls if heavily marked (with landlord approval)
• ✅ Clean light switches
• ✅ Wipe power outlets

Floors:

• ✅ Vacuum all carpeted areas thoroughly
• ✅ Treat carpet stains
• ✅ Professionally steam clean carpets (keep receipt)
• ✅ Sweep and mop hard floors
• ✅ Clean skirting boards

Windows and Window Furnishings:

• ✅ Clean windows inside and out
• ✅ Clean window tracks and sills
• ✅ Vacuum or wash curtains
• ✅ Dust and wipe blinds
• ✅ Clean window frames

Fixtures:

• ✅ Dust and wipe all light fittings
• ✅ Clean ceiling fans (top and bottom)
• ✅ Wipe door frames and doors
• ✅ Clean door handles
• ✅ Polish mirrors

Built-ins and Wardrobes:

• ✅ Empty completely
• ✅ Vacuum and wipe shelves
• ✅ Clean hanging rails
• ✅ Wipe doors inside and out
• ✅ Vacuum floor

Air Conditioning:

• ✅ Clean or replace filters
• ✅ Wipe down unit exterior
• ✅ Clean vents and grilles

Outdoor Areas (If Applicable)

Balcony/Patio:

• ✅ Sweep thoroughly
• ✅ Mop or hose down
• ✅ Clean glass balustrades
• ✅ Remove cobwebs
• ✅ Clean outdoor lights

Garden/Yard:

• ✅ Mow lawns
• ✅ Edge lawn borders
• ✅ Weed garden beds
• ✅ Trim hedges and bushes
• ✅ Remove rubbish and debris
• ✅ Sweep paths and driveways

Garage/Carport:

• ✅ Sweep floor
• ✅ Remove oil stains
• ✅ Clear any stored items
• ✅ Clean garage door

Other Outdoor:

• ✅ Clean letterbox
• ✅ Hose down bins
• ✅ Clean outdoor furniture (if included)
• ✅ Clear gutters if accessible and required

Professional Bond Cleaning vs DIY

When to Do It Yourself:

Best For:

• Small apartments (1 bedroom)
• Short tenancies with minimal wear
• Properties already well-maintained
• Budget is extremely tight
• You have time and energy

Estimated Time:

• 1 bedroom: 6-8 hours
• 2 bedroom: 10-14 hours
• 3 bedroom: 16-20+ hours

DIY Cost:

• Cleaning products: $50-$100
• Equipment rental (steam cleaner): $50-$80
• Total: $100-$180

When to Hire Professionals:

Best For:

• Properties requiring deep cleaning
• Homes with heavy wear and tear
• Multi-bedroom houses
• Time-poor tenants
• High bond amounts at stake
• Properties with difficult issues (mould, stains)

Professional Advantages:

• ✅ Bond back guarantee (usually 72-168 hours)
• ✅ Industrial equipment and products
• ✅ Experienced with real estate standards
• ✅ Faster completion time
• ✅ Insurance coverage
• ✅ Will return if agent rejects clean

Average Professional Costs (2024):

• Studio/1 bedroom: $200-$300
• 2 bedroom unit: $300-$400
• 3 bedroom house: $400-$550
• 4+ bedroom house: $550-$750
• Additional carpet cleaning: $100-$250
• Additional window cleaning: $80-$150

Questions to Ask Professional Cleaners:

1. Do you offer a bond back guarantee?
2. What’s included in your service?
3. How long has your company been doing bond cleans?
4. Are you insured?
5. Do you provide a receipt for carpet cleaning?
6. Will you return if the agent rejects the clean?
7. What happens if I don’t get my bond back?
8. Do you clean windows and outdoor areas?
9. Can I get references from real estate agents?
10. What’s your cancellation policy?

Top 10 Reasons Bonds Are Withheld

1. Dirty Oven (Most Common)
   • Solution: Use professional oven cleaner or baking soda paste
   • Focus on racks, interior walls, and between glass panels
2. Carpet Stains and Odours
   • Solution: Professional steam cleaning (keep receipt)
   • Pre-treat stains with appropriate products
3. Mould in Bathrooms
   • Solution: Use mould remover with bleach
   • Clean grout thoroughly
   • Replace silicone if heavily moulded
4. Dirty Windows and Tracks
   • Solution: Clean inside and out with proper window cleaner
   • Vacuum tracks then wipe with damp cloth
5. Marks on Walls
   • Solution: Magic erasers for scuff marks
   • Paint touch-ups (match original colour)
   • Fill picture hook holes
6. Rangehood Filter Grease
   • Solution: Soak in hot water and degreaser
   • Replace if beyond cleaning
7. Dusty Ceiling Fans and Light Fittings
   • Solution: Use microfibre cloth or duster
   • Remove light covers and wash
8. Kitchen Cupboard Grime
   • Solution: Clean inside all cupboards
   • Pay attention to top of cupboards
   • Clean handles and exteriors
9. Neglected Outdoor Areas
   • Solution: Mow lawns, weed gardens
   • Sweep patios and balconies
   • Clean outdoor furniture
10. General Dust and Cobwebs
    • Solution: Dust from top to bottom
    • Check corners, skirting boards
    • Clean air vents

Essential Bond Cleaning Supplies

Must-Have Products:

General Cleaning:

• Microfibre cloths (pack of 10+)
• Bucket and mop
• Vacuum cleaner with attachments
• All-purpose cleaner
• Glass cleaner
• Dust cloths or dusters

Kitchen Specific:

• Heavy-duty oven cleaner
• Degreaser for rangehood
• Steel wool or scrubbing pads
• Baking soda (natural alternative)
• Vinegar (for general cleaning)

Bathroom Specific:

• Mould and mildew remover
• Toilet cleaner with bleach
• Bathroom tile cleaner
• Limescale remover
• Old toothbrush (for grout)

Floors:

• Carpet spot cleaner
• Floor cleaner appropriate for surface type
• Steam mop or carpet cleaner (rent if needed)

Outdoor:

• Outdoor broom
• Garden tools (if yard maintenance required)
• Hose and spray nozzle

Optional But Helpful:

• Steam cleaner
• Pressure washer (for driveways)
• Extension pole (for ceiling fans)
• Step ladder
• Wet/dry vacuum

Professional Cleaning Tips and Tricks

Kitchen:

Oven Cleaning Hack:

1. Remove racks and soak overnight in hot water with dishwashing liquid
2. Make paste of baking soda and water, coat oven interior
3. Leave overnight
4. Spray with vinegar in the morning (it will foam)
5. Wipe clean with damp cloth
6. For stubborn spots, use commercial oven cleaner

Rangehood Filter:

1. Remove filters
2. Boil water in large pot
3. Add 1/4 cup baking soda (add slowly to avoid overflow)
4. Submerge filters and boil for 10-15 minutes
5. Scrub remaining grease
6. Rinse and dry completely

Bathroom:

Mould Removal:

1. Spray affected areas with bleach-based mould remover
2. Leave for 10-15 minutes
3. Scrub with old toothbrush or grout brush
4. Rinse thoroughly
5. For prevention, spray with diluted clove oil solution

Showerhead Descaling:

1. Fill plastic bag with white vinegar
2. Secure bag over showerhead with rubber band
3. Leave overnight
4. Remove and run hot water through

Grout Whitening:

1. Make paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide
2. Apply to grout with toothbrush
3. Leave for 10 minutes
4. Scrub and rinse
5. Alternative: Use grout whitening pen

General:

Window Cleaning:

1. Use commercial glass cleaner or vinegar solution
2. Wipe in one direction inside, opposite direction outside (to see streaks)
3. Use newspaper or microfibre cloth for streak-free finish
4. Don’t clean in direct sunlight (causes streaking)

Carpet Stain Removal:

1. Blot stains immediately (never rub)
2. For fresh stains: cold water and white vinegar
3. For set stains: carpet stain remover or hire professional
4. Test any product in hidden area first

Wall Mark Removal:

1. Magic eraser for scuff marks (test first)
2. Mild detergent solution for general marks
3. Touch-up paint for deep marks (match exact colour)

Timeline: When to Start Bond Cleaning

4 Weeks Before Moving:

• ✅ Book professional cleaners (if using)
• ✅ Start decluttering and organizing
• ✅ Review entry condition report
• ✅ Take photos of property’s current state
• ✅ Repair minor damage (holes in walls, broken fixtures)

2 Weeks Before Moving:

• ✅ Start packing and cleaning room by room
• ✅ Clean areas as you pack them
• ✅ Arrange carpet cleaning appointment
• ✅ Purchase cleaning supplies
• ✅ Organise garden maintenance if needed

1 Week Before Moving:

• ✅ Deep clean kitchen and bathrooms
• ✅ Clean windows and tracks
• ✅ Steam clean carpets
• ✅ Clean outdoor areas
• ✅ Organize rubbish removal

Moving Day:

• ✅ Final vacuum and mop
• ✅ Wipe down all surfaces
• ✅ Check for missed areas
• ✅ Take photos of cleaned property
• ✅ Return all keys and remotes
• ✅ Provide cleaning receipts to agent

What to Do If Your Bond Is Disputed

Step 1: Review the Inspection Report

• Carefully read the landlord’s claims
• Compare to entry condition report
• Take photos if property is still accessible
• Identify reasonable vs unreasonable claims

Step 2: Respond in Writing

• Within timeframes specified by your state
• Dispute any unfair claims with evidence
• Provide cleaning receipts
• Reference entry condition report
• Remain professional and factual

Step 3: Negotiate

• Offer to rectify genuine issues
• Propose fair deductions for legitimate problems
• Request itemized quotes for repairs/cleaning
• Suggest independent assessment if needed

Step 4: Apply to Tribunal

If negotiation fails, apply to your state tribunal:

• NSW: NCAT
• VIC: VCAT
• QLD: QCAT
• WA: Magistrates Court
• SA: SACAT
• TAS: Residential Tenancy Commissioner
• ACT: ACAT
• NT: NTCAT

What to Bring:

• Entry and exit condition reports
• Photos of property (before and after)
• Cleaning receipts
• Correspondence with landlord/agent
• Copy of lease agreement
• Bond lodgement receipt

Your Rights:

You’re entitled to dispute deductions for:

• Normal wear and tear
• Pre-existing damage
• Cleaning to a higher standard than entry condition
• Issues outside your control
• Work not actually completed by landlord

Bond Cleaning FAQs

Q: Do I legally have to professionally clean carpets? A: It depends on your state and lease agreement. Check your tenancy agreement – if it specifies professional carpet cleaning, you must do it. Otherwise, carpets only need to be “reasonably clean.”

Q: Can my landlord deduct for professional cleaning if I clean myself? A: No, if you clean to the required standard. They can only charge for actual cleaning needed, not preventatively hire cleaners.

Q: What is “fair wear and tear”? A: Normal deterioration from everyday living – faded paint, worn carpet (not stained), minor scuffs. Damage beyond this is your responsibility.

Q: How long do I have to clean after moving out? A: You should complete cleaning before returning keys. Most states require the property to be clean on the last day of tenancy.

Q: Can I do the final clean myself even with pets? A: Yes, but be thorough with pet hair removal, odour treatment, and any pet damage. Professional cleaning may be worth it for heavy pet odours.

Q: What if I find the property wasn’t clean when I moved in? A: Your entry condition report is crucial. If documented, you’re only required to return it to that standard.

Q: Do I need to clean walls? A: Spot cleaning for marks is required. Full repainting is not expected unless damage exceeds normal wear and tear.

Q: What about the garden? A: Return it to similar condition as entry, with regular maintenance. You’re not expected to improve it.

Q: Can I be charged for cleaning after I’ve moved out? A: Yes, if the property isn’t adequately cleaned. This comes from your bond.

Q: Should I attend the final inspection? A: Absolutely! Most states allow this. You can address concerns immediately and ensure fairness.

Final Checklist Before Handing Over Keys

Documentation:

• ☑️ Take detailed photos of entire property (date stamped)
• ☑️ Keep all cleaning receipts (especially carpet cleaning)
• ☑️ Document any pre-existing damage
• ☑️ Copy of entry condition report
• ☑️ Record final meter readings (electricity, gas, water)

Items to Return:

• ☑️ All keys (including mailbox, garage, pool)
• ☑️ Remote controls (garage, air con, gates)
• ☑️ Security tags
• ☑️ Any provided appliance manuals

Final Checks:

• ☑️ All personal belongings removed
• ☑️ Mail redirected
• ☑️ Utilities notified of move
• ☑️ No items left in garden, garage, or storage
• ☑️ All rubbish removed
• ☑️ Property exactly as cleaned

Contact Information:

• ☑️ Provide forwarding address for bond return
• ☑️ Confirm bond return forms signed by all parties
• ☑️ Keep agent’s contact details for follow-up

Conclusion

Getting your full bond back comes down to:

1. Documentation – Entry condition report is everything
2. Thoroughness – Don’t cut corners on cleaning
3. Focus on Problem Areas – Oven, bathrooms, carpets
4. Professional Help – Consider it for peace of mind
5. Evidence – Photos and receipts protect you

Remember: The cost of professional cleaning ($250-$600) is almost always less than partial bond deductions ($300-$1,500+). When in doubt, invest in professional end of lease cleaning in Melbourne with a guarantee.