Moving out is stressful enough. You are packing boxes, booking removalists, switching utilities and trying to remember where you put the spare keys. Then comes the job nobody looks forward to: leaving the rental spotless so you can get your full bond back.
This is why so many tenants search for end of lease cleaning Melbourne price information. You want to know what a fair rate looks like, what is included, and whether paying a professional is actually worth it. The problem is that quotes can range from $150 to well over $800, and most companies do not explain why.
This guide breaks it all down. You will learn the typical bond cleaning costs in Melbourne by property size, what affects your quote, what extras to expect, how to avoid hidden fees and how to choose a reliable vacate cleaner. If you want to see local options first, visit our page on end of lease cleaning Melbourne.
Please note: prices in this article are general estimates only. Always request a written quote, and check your lease and Consumer Affairs Victoria for your rights and obligations as a tenant.
Average End of Lease Cleaning Prices in Melbourne
Most Melbourne companies price by the number of bedrooms and bathrooms. Here are the typical ranges for a standard vacate clean, not including carpet steam cleaning unless noted.
Property SizeTypical Price Range (AUD)Studio apartment$150 – $2801-bedroom unit$200 – $3502-bedroom unit$280 – $4503-bedroom house$380 – $6004-bedroom house$500 – $8005-bedroom house$700 – $1,100
As a general rule, a 2-bedroom unit in Melbourne often costs between $280 and $450, and a 3-bedroom home between $380 and $600. Larger homes, double-storey properties and extra bathrooms push the price higher.
Many companies also set a minimum charge, commonly $150 to $250, so even a very small unit may not fall below that figure.
What Is Included in an End of Lease Clean?
A proper vacate clean is much more detailed than a regular house clean. It follows the checklist a property manager uses during the final inspection. Typical inclusions are:
Kitchen
- Inside and outside of cupboards and drawers
- Oven, cooktop, rangehood and grill
- Sink, taps and splashback
- Benchtops and appliances
- Dishwasher and fridge if requested
Bathrooms and Toilets
- Shower, screen, bath and tiles
- Basin, vanity and mirrors
- Toilet, cistern and base
- Exhaust fans and vents
- Floors and drains
Living Areas and Bedrooms
- Dusting ceilings, fans and light fittings
- Wiping walls, skirting boards and doors
- Cleaning built-in wardrobes
- Window sills and tracks
- Vacuuming and mopping floors
Laundry and Other Areas
- Trough, taps and cabinetry
- Wall tiles and exhaust vents
- Garage floor sweep
- Balcony or patio sweep
Always ask your cleaner for a written checklist so you know exactly what you are paying for.
What Affects the Price of End of Lease Cleaning?
Two properties of the same size can receive very different quotes. Here are the main factors behind vacate cleaning costs in Melbourne.
Property Size and Number of Rooms
More bedrooms, bathrooms and living areas mean more time and labour. Double-storey homes also take longer than single-level units.
Level of Dirt and Condition
A well-maintained rental is faster to clean than one with built-up grease, mould, limescale or pet hair. Heavily soiled properties may attract a surcharge of 20 to 50 percent.
Number of Bathrooms and Kitchens
Bathrooms and kitchens are the most time-consuming spaces. An extra bathroom can add $50 to $100 to your quote.
Carpets and Flooring
Many Victorian leases expect carpets to be professionally cleaned, or at least left in a clean state. Steam cleaning is often priced separately, which we cover below.
Windows and Blinds
Windows, tracks and screens may be included or charged as extras, depending on the provider.
Add-On Services
- Extras can raise your total quickly. Typical add-ons include:
- Steam cleaning carpet: $30 – $55 / room
- Inside / Outside Window Cleaning: $60 – $200
- Oven Deep Cleaning: $40 – $100
- Balcony / Patio: $30 – $80
- Garage Cleaning: $60 – $150
- Cleaning Blinds: $5 – $15 each
- Deep Cleaning the Fridge / Freezer: $20 – $50
Location and Access
There may be a travel fee to service the Outer Suburbs. Access or location can also add time.
Urgency and Timing
There is typically more demand to book at the end of the month or on the weekend, as many leases end at the end of the month. This means last minute bookings may be higher.
Carpet Steam Cleaning: Is It Part of the Price?
Carpet cleaning is one of the biggest cost variables. Many cleaners quote the vacate clean without carpets, then add steam cleaning as an option.
Carpet Cleaning OptionTypical Price Range (AUD)Per bedroom$30 – $55Living room$50 – $90Hallway or stairs$30 – $80Whole 2-bedroom unit$120 – $220Whole 3-bedroom house$180 – $320
Check your lease and your property manager’s cleaning list to see whether professional carpet cleaning is required. Receipts are often helpful evidence if the agent questions the result.
Do You Have to Hire a Professional Cleaner?
In Victoria, tenants are generally expected to return the property in the same condition as when they moved in, allowing for fair wear and tear, and to leave it reasonably clean. Many agents suggest professional cleaning, but you should check your own lease and the guidance from Consumer Affairs Victoria for your situation.
Hiring a professional is optional in many cases, but it is popular because it:
- Saves time during a busy move
- Follows the agent’s checklist closely
- Often includes a re-clean guarantee
- Provides a receipt you can show as proof
- Reduces the risk of disputes over bond money
DIY can work if you have time, the right products and a very clean rental. It is more challenging in homes with ovens, grout, window tracks and carpets.
DIY vs Professional: Cost Comparison
DIY looks cheaper at first, but the numbers can surprise you.
ItemDIY EstimateProfessionalCleaning products and tools$50 – $120IncludedCarpet cleaner hire$60 – $100$120 – $320Your time8 – 16 hours0 hoursRisk of missed areasHigherLower, with guaranteeTotal (2-bedroom)$110 – $220 + time$280 – $450
If you value your time, or if your bond is large, a professional clean often provides better peace of mind. A missed oven or dirty window track can cost more in deductions than the cleaning itself.
How to Get Affordable and Reliable End of Lease Cleaning in Melbourne
A fair price matters, but so does trust. Use these steps when comparing providers.
1. Get at Least Three Written Quotes
Ask each company to list exactly what is included. Compare inclusions, not just the final number.
2. Check Recent Reviews
Look on Google, Facebook and community groups for reviews that discuss passing inspections, time management and re-cleans. Go to Cheap and Best Cleaning Australia Reviews to learn how to analyze and read reviews.
3. Check Insurance and Experience
Public liability insurance ensures you won’t be liable if something gets broken. Ask how many years they’ve been in business and if their staff gets trained.
4. Ask About the Guarantee
If they have a good guarantee, they’ll offer a free re-clean if the property manager finds missed areas within 48-72 hours.
5. Ask What the Agent’s Checklist Requires
Some agents provide a specific list. Share it with your cleaner so nothing is missed.
6. Check for Hidden Fees
Prior to confirming your reservation, check for call-out fees, parking, additional restrooms, carpet charges and cancellation terms.
7. Book Early
Lease end dates cluster around the end of the month. Booking 1 to 2 weeks ahead gives you better choice and avoids last-minute premiums.
Money-Saving Tips for End of Lease Cleaning
You can reduce your costs without risking your bond.
Declutter before the cleaners arrive.
Remove rubbish, food and personal items so the team can focus on cleaning.
Do light tasks yourself.
Wiping shelves, emptying the fridge and removing marks from walls can reduce labour time.
Bundle services.
Combining a vacate clean with carpet cleaning or upholstery cleaning can unlock package pricing. If you are moving out of a furnished rental, our Sofa Cleaning Melbourne Price guide shows typical costs for upholstery.
Book midweek.
Tuesday to Thursday slots are often cheaper than Fridays and weekends.
Ask for discounts.
Companies often have student deals, referral offers or discounts for repeat customers.
Go with a flat rate.
A fixed price stops you from being surprised by hourly charges.
Check out this End of Lease Cleaning Checklist to See What Property Managers Check.
Knowing what agents check helps you with preparing for an inspection.Here are the usual focus areas.
- Oven and cooktop free of grease and burnt food
- Rangehood filters cleaned
- Bathroom tiles and grout without mould or soap scum
- Windows and tracks free of dust, dead insects and dirt
- Walls free from marks, scuffs and fingerprints
- Skirting boards and doors wiped clean
- Carpets clean, with no stains or odours
- Light fittings and fans free of dust and cobwebs
- Cupboards and drawers empty and wiped
- Floors vacuumed and mopped
- Garden and outdoor areas tidy, with no rubbish
Take dated photos before you leave. They can be helpful if there is any dispute about the property’s condition.
End of Lease Cleaning vs Builders Cleaning
People often confuse these two services, but they serve different purposes. End of lease cleaning prepares a rental property for the final inspection after a tenant moves out. Builders cleaning, also called post-construction cleaning, removes dust, paint, cement and debris after renovations or new construction.
If your landlord has renovated the property, or you are moving into a new build, you may need both at different times. For details on the second service, read our Builders Cleaning Melbourne Review.
Common Mistakes That Can Cost You Bond Money
Leaving cleaning to the last day.
You may run out of time and miss key areas.
Skipping the oven and rangehood.
These are among the most common reasons for deductions.
Forgetting window tracks and sliding door tracks.
They collect dirt and are easy to overlook.
Ignoring carpet stains and odours.
Agents often check this closely.
Using harsh chemicals on surfaces.
This can cause damage and extra charges.
Not taking photos.
Evidence helps if there is a disagreement.
Choosing the cheapest quote blindly.
Very low prices can mean rushed or incomplete work.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does end of lease cleaning Melbourne usually cost?
A 2-bedroom unit typically costs between $280-$450, with a 3-bedroom house between $380 and $600. Steam cleaning carpets costs $50-$100 extra, and windows or garages cost extra, as well. Always request a written quote before making a booking.
What does a Lease Cleaning Service typically include?
This typically includes kitchens and bathrooms, living areas, all bedrooms, laundries, floors, windows and surfaces, according to the property manager’s checklist. Carpets and ovens are not usually included. Request a written list of inclusions to confirm.
How do I find the most trustworthy provider with Cheap and Best Cleaning Australia Reviews?
Find reviews that discuss whether the service was done on time and thoroughly. Look for reviews that discuss a re-clean guarantee. You can also filter reviews by date and/or location. Check insurance, compare at least three quotes and avoid prices that are far below the market average.
Is end of lease cleaning the same as Builders Cleaning Melbourne Review services?
No. End of lease cleaning is for tenants moving out of a rental, while builders cleaning removes construction dust and debris after building or renovation work. The tools, checklists and pricing are different.
Can I save money by cleaning furniture before moving out, with the help of Sofa Cleaning Melbourne Price guides?
If you are leaving a furnished rental or moving your own sofa to a new home, a professional upholstery clean can help. We provide a price guide to help you set a budget. Our prices depend on sofa size and fabric.
Do you require steam cleaning of the carpets when moving out?
Typically not, however it’s up to your lease and your property manager. Many agents ask for carpets to be professionally cleaned, but you should check your agreement and keep any receipts.
How long does an end of lease clean take?
A small unit may take 3 to 5 hours, while a large house can take a full day with a team. Heavy dirt, mould or large windows can extend the time.
When should I book my vacate cleaner?
Book 1 to 2 weeks before your move-out date, especially at the end of the month when demand is highest. Early bookings give you more choice and better prices.
Final Thoughts
It’s always best to be aware of end of lease cleaning prices for your location so you can budget appropriately and avoid surprises. Prices may vary slightly depending on location but are roughly $280-450 for a 2-bedroom unit and $380-600 for a 3-bedroom house (steam cleaning of carpets and extras added on). Your final price may also vary based on the size and condition of your property, add-ons and when the work is done.
When comparing quotes, be sure to confirm insurance and guarantees as well as check reviews to make sure they are up to date.. With a little planning, you can find an affordable, reliable cleaner who helps you leave your rental in great shape and gives you the best chance of getting your full bond back.