How Much Does Bond Cleaning Cost in Australia?

Bond cleaning is priced on the size and condition of the property, not on hours, which is why two quotes for the same house can look very different. Knowing what sits inside a quote makes them comparable.

The figures below are indicative ranges for a standard, unfurnished property in reasonable condition. Your city, your property and the state of the oven will move them.

Typical price ranges

• Studio or one bedroom, one bathroom: roughly $200 to $350
• Two bedroom, one bathroom: roughly $300 to $450
• Three bedroom, two bathroom house: roughly $450 to $700
• Four bedroom or larger: $650 upwards

Carpet steam cleaning is usually quoted separately, often $30 to $50 per room, with a minimum call-out. Pest or flea treatment, where the lease requires it after a pet, typically adds $80 to $150.

What pushes a quote up

• Condition: heavy grease, mould or a neglected oven means more hours.
• Extra bathrooms: bathrooms are the most labour-intensive rooms per square metre.
• Furnished properties: cleaning around furniture is slower and often excluded.
• Balconies, garages and outdoor areas: frequently not in the base price.
• Second-storey windows: exterior glass above ground level may need equipment.
• Pets: hair in carpets and skirtings adds time.

What should be included

Before comparing two numbers, check both quotes cover:

• Oven, rangehood and cooktop, including the oven door glass.
• Inside all cupboards, drawers and wardrobes.
• Windows inside, plus tracks, sills and flyscreens.
• Bathroom grout, silicone and shower screen.
• Skirting boards, doors, switches and light fittings.
• Exhaust fans and air conditioner filters.
• Walls spot-cleaned for marks.

A quote that is $100 cheaper because it excludes the oven and the windows is not cheaper.

The bond back guarantee

Many cleaners advertise a "bond back guarantee". Read what it actually means. In practice a fair one is a free return visit within a stated window (commonly three to seven days) to fix items the agent lists. It is not a promise to reimburse your bond, and it will not cover damage or items outside the original scope.

Ask two questions: how long is the window, and does it require the agent's list in writing?

How to compare quotes properly

1. Give every cleaner the same information: bedrooms, bathrooms, carpeted rooms, whether it is furnished, and any problem areas.
2. Ask for the inclusions list in writing.
3. Confirm whether carpet cleaning and pest treatment are included or extra.
4. Check the re-clean window.
5. Confirm they supply their own equipment and products.

Quoting sight-unseen is normal for standard properties. For anything unusual, a good cleaner will want photos or a walkthrough.

Frequently asked questions

Is bond cleaning cheaper than losing part of the bond?

Usually, yes. A deduction for cleaning is charged at the agent's contractor rate plus their time, and you have no control over who does the work or what it costs.

Can I get a quote without an inspection?

For most standard rentals, yes. Be honest about condition. A quote based on a description of a spotless property will be revised on the day if it is not.

Do I need to be there?

No, provided the cleaner has access and the property is empty. Being there for the final walkthrough helps if anything needs attention.

Compare end-of-lease cleaners and get a couple of quotes before you commit. If you run a cleaning business, you can list it on MoveOutMate.