Renters’ Guide to Getting Your Bond Back with Professional Cleaning

Moving out of a rental property can be stressful, especially when it comes to securing your full bond refund. Most landlords and property managers require the home to be in the same condition as when you moved in - clean, damage-free, and ready for the next tenant.

One of the most common reasons tenants lose part of their bond is insufficient cleaning. While you can attempt to clean the property yourself, hiring professional end-of-lease cleaners can ensure a thorough job and increase your chances of getting your full deposit back.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about bond cleaning, including why professional services are worth it and what areas require extra attention.

1. Understanding Bond Cleaning Requirements

Most rental agreements state that tenants must return the property in a clean and well-maintained condition. If the landlord or property manager finds issues during the final inspection, they may deduct money from your bond to cover professional cleaning costs.

What Landlords Expect:

• A deep clean of all rooms (not just surface cleaning)
• Removal of dust, stains, and grime from floors, walls, and ceilings
• Sanitized bathrooms and kitchens
• Cleaned carpets, blinds, and windows
• No lingering odors from pets, smoking, or cooking

Skipping any of these steps could result in partial or full bond deductions.

2. Why Hire a Professional Bond Cleaning Service?

While DIY cleaning may seem like a cost-saving option, professional cleaners have the tools, experience, and techniques to meet landlord expectations. Here’s why it’s worth the investment:

• Guarantees a thorough clean – Professionals know exactly what landlords look for.
• Saves time and effort – Moving is already exhausting; let experts handle the cleaning.
• Ensures high standards – Professional-grade products and equipment deliver better results.
• Bond-back guarantee – Many cleaning companies offer a re-clean if the landlord isn’t satisfied.

For just a fraction of your bond, you avoid the hassle and maximize your chances of a full refund.

3. What’s Included in a Professional Bond Clean?

1. General Areas (Living Room, Bedrooms, Hallways)

• Dusting and wiping down walls, skirting boards, and light switches
• Vacuuming and mopping floors
• Cleaning built-in wardrobes and shelves
• Removing cobwebs and dust from ceilings and vents

2. Kitchen

• Cleaning countertops, sinks, and splashbacks
• Degreasing stovetops, range hoods, and ovens
• Wiping down cupboards and drawers (inside and out)
• Sanitizing appliances (microwave, dishwasher, etc.)

3.  Bathroom & Laundry

• Scrubbing and disinfecting sinks, toilets, showers, and bathtubs
• Cleaning mirrors, tiles, and grout
• Removing mold and soap scum
• Wiping down vanities, shelves, and exhaust fans

4.  Windows & Doors

• Cleaning glass windows (inside and outside where accessible)
• Wiping down window tracks, sills, and blinds
• Cleaning door frames, handles, and sliding tracks

5. Carpets & Flooring

• Vacuuming carpets and rugs
• Steam cleaning (if required in lease agreement)
• Mopping hard floors to remove stains and scuffs

6. Outdoor Areas (if applicable)

• Sweeping patios, balconies, and garages
• Removing cobwebs and debris
• Washing exterior walls and surfaces

4. Common Cleaning Mistakes That Cost Renters Their Bond

• Ignoring hidden spots – Landlords check inside cupboards, behind appliances, and under furniture.
• Not cleaning the oven – One of the biggest reasons for bond deductions!
• Forgetting light fixtures and fans – Dusty or greasy surfaces can leave a bad impression.
• Skipping carpet steam cleaning – Some landlords require proof of professional carpet cleaning.
• Leaving behind odors – Pet smells, smoke, and food odors can linger without deep cleaning.

Tip: Always check your lease agreement for specific cleaning requirements!

5. How to Choose the Right Professional Cleaner

When hiring a bond cleaning service, look for:

• Experience in end-of-lease cleaning
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
• A bond-back guarantee or re-clean service
• Competitive pricing with no hidden fees
• Use of eco-friendly and professional cleaning products

Bonus Tip: Book your cleaning at least 1-2 days before your final inspection to allow time for any touch-ups.

6. What to Do Before the Cleaners Arrive

• Remove all personal belongings – An empty house ensures a complete clean.
• Fix minor damages – Patch up nail holes or replace broken fixtures.
• Ensure utilities are still connected – Cleaners need water and electricity.
• Check your lease’s cleaning checklist – Know exactly what’s required.

7. Final Inspection: Ensuring a Hassle-Free Bond Return

After the professional cleaning, do a walkthrough inspection before handing back the keys. Check for:

• No dust, stains, or marks on walls, floors, or surfaces
• Kitchens and bathrooms are spotless and odor-free
• Windows, blinds, and carpets are clean and dry
• Any previous damage has been fixed or reported

Once you’re satisfied, document the clean with photos in case of disputes.

Final Thoughts: Invest in Professional Cleaning for a Stress-Free Bond Refund

Getting your full bond back doesn’t have to be a struggle. By investing in a professional end-of-lease cleaning service, you ensure a spotless home that meets landlord standards - saving you time, effort, and money in the long run.

Key Takeaways:

• A professional bond clean increases your chances of a full refund.
• Landlords expect deep cleaning, including carpets, kitchens, and windows.
• Avoid common cleaning mistakes that could cost you your bond.
• Book a trusted cleaning service with a bond-back guarantee.

Moving out soon? Book your professional bond cleaning today and secure your full deposit!