End of Lease Cleaning Checklist for Australian Tenants

Posted by wobam89732 on February 11th, 2025

Moving out of a rental property in Australia? You’re probably juggling a million things—packing, organizing movers, and sorting out paperwork. But one of the most critical (and dreaded) tasks is end of lease cleaning.

Your landlord or property manager expects the place to be spotless before returning the keys. A thorough cleaning can distinguish between a full bond refund and unexpected deductions. To help you breeze through this process, we’ve put together the ultimate end of lease cleaning checklist—so you won’t miss a thing!

Kitchen – Where Grease and Grime Hide

The kitchen is one of the most scrutinized areas during an inspection, so extra attention here is must.

✅ Cabinets & Drawers – Wipe inside and out, ensuring no crumbs or grease stains remain.
✅ Countertops & Splashbacks – Clean and disinfect thoroughly.
✅ Oven & Stovetop – Scrub away baked-on grime, including rangehood filters.
✅ Sink & Taps – Remove limescale, water spots, and stains.
✅ Appliances (if provided) – Clean the fridge, microwave, and dishwasher, paying special attention to handles and seals.
✅ Floors – Mop thoroughly, make sure to get into the corners and under appliances.

Bathroom – Shine and Sparkle Required

Nothing makes a bad impression like a grimy bathroom. Landlords will inspect every nook and cranny, so make sure you:

✅ Toilet, Sink, Bathtub & Shower – Scrub and disinfect all surfaces.
✅ Tiles & Shower Screens – Remove soap scum, water stains, and limescale.
✅ Mirrors & Fixtures – Polish them to a streak-free shine.
✅ Exhaust Fan & Vents – Clear out dust buildup for better air circulation.
✅ Floors – Mop and sanitize thoroughly.

Living Areas & Bedrooms – Dust-Free and Flawless

These areas might be seem easy to clean, but they often hide dust, dirt, and scuff marks.

✅ Dust All Surfaces – This includes shelves, skirting boards, furniture, and ceiling fans.
✅ Vacuum & Mop – Pay special attention to corners and under furniture.
✅ Windows, Tracks & Blinds – Wipe down windows and clean window sills.
✅ Cobweb Removal – Check ceilings, corners, and light fixtures.
✅ Walls & Marks – Gently wipe down walls to remove any scuffs or fingerprints.

Outdoor Areas (If Applicable) – Don’t Forget the Exterior

If your rental includes outdoor space, ensure it’s just as clean as the interior.

✅ Sweep & Remove Debris – Patios, balconies, and driveways should be clear.
✅ Cobweb Removal – Check railings, outdoor furniture, and walls.
✅ Garden & Lawn Care – Trim overgrown plants, remove weeds, and tidy up the yard.
✅ Garage & Storage Areas – Sweep and remove any leftover junk.

Additional Tasks – The Finishing Touches

Some final deep-cleaning tasks can make all the difference:

✅ Steam Clean Carpets – Especially important if you’ve had pets.
✅ Clean Air Conditioning Vents – Remove dust and wipe down filters.
✅ Empty and Disinfect Bins – Ensure all rubbish is removed.

Why a Cleaning Checklist Matters

This checklist isn’t just about getting things clean—it’s about ensuring you get your full bond back. Property managers have strict standards, and skipping just one small task can result in a deduction. Following this step-by-step guide makes the process efficient and stress-free.

DIY vs. Hiring Professional Cleaners

While some tenants prefer to tackle the cleaning themselves, a professional end-of-lease clean can be a game-changer. At Dirt2Tidy, we specialize in bond cleaning and offer a bond-back guarantee, giving you complete peace of mind. Our eco-friendly cleaning solutions ensure a spotless home while being gentle on the environment.