Moving houses can be both exciting and stressful. One of the biggest challenges tenants face when moving out of a rental property is ensuring they get their full bond money back. Landlords and property managers are extremely thorough during inspections, and even small marks or dusty corners can lead to deductions. This is where bond cleaning—also known as end-of-lease cleaning—comes in. A professional bond clean ensures your rental property is spotless and helps you walk away stress-free.
What is Bond Refund?
Bond cleaning is a comprehensive cleaning process designed to meet the high standards set by landlords and property managers. Unlike regular cleaning, it covers every nook and cranny of the property, including hard-to-reach areas, stubborn stains, and overlooked details.
Why Bond Cleaning is Important
- Secures Your Bond Refund – A clean property increases the likelihood of getting your full bond back.
- Meets Legal Obligations – Many tenancy agreements require professional cleaning.
- Leaves a Positive Impression – Whether for your landlord or the next tenant, a sparkling property leaves no room for disputes.
- Saves Time & Stress – Moving is already exhausting—outsourcing cleaning frees you to focus on settling into your new place.
What’s Included in a Professional Bond Clean?
A thorough bond clean usually includes:
- Kitchen: Oven and stovetop scrubbing, degreasing range hoods, cleaning cupboards, wiping benches.
- Bathrooms: Mold removal, scrubbing tiles, disinfecting toilets, polishing mirrors.
- Bedrooms & Living Rooms: Dusting, vacuuming, wiping skirting boards, wardrobes, and window tracks.
- Floors: Mopping and vacuuming throughout the house.
- Windows: Cleaning inside and outside (where accessible).
- Outdoor Areas: Patios, balconies, and garages if applicable.
Step-by-Step Bond Cleaning Checklist
- Remove all furniture and personal items.
- Start with dusting ceilings, fans, and light fittings.
- Deep clean kitchen appliances (oven, microwave, fridge).
- Scrub bathroom tiles and grout.
- Wash walls, doors, and skirting boards.
- Clean windows, blinds, and tracks.
- Vacuum and mop all floors.
- Finish with a final inspection checklist to ensure nothing is missed.
Common Mistakes Tenants Make in Bond Cleaning
- Forgetting oven and range hood cleaning.
- Neglecting blinds, curtains, and window tracks.
- Leaving marks on walls and doors.
- Not steam cleaning carpets (often required in lease agreements).
FAQs About Bond Cleaning
Q1. How long does a bond clean take?
A full bond clean can take anywhere from 4 to 10 hours depending on property size.
Q2. Is professional bond cleaning mandatory?
While not always legally required, many landlords request it. Professional services also increase your chances of a full refund.
Q3. How much does bond cleaning cost?
Costs vary but typically range between $200–$600 depending on property size and condition.
Conclusion
Bond cleaning is not just another cleaning job—it’s the key to securing your bond refund and leaving a stress-free rental history behind. By investing in a thorough, professional bond clean, you can move into your next home with peace of mind.