Bond Cleaning vs End of Lease Cleaning: Is There a Difference?

"Bond clean" and "end of lease clean" are two names for the same thing in Australia, and the confusion is understandable, since different companies, agents and states use the terms slightly differently. Here's how they actually relate, and what to look for either way.

Are bond cleaning and end of lease cleaning the same?

Yes, in almost all cases. Both describe a thorough clean carried out when a tenant moves out, aimed at getting the property back to the condition described in the entry condition report, so the tenant's bond can be returned in full. "Bond clean" emphasises the financial outcome, while "end of lease clean" describes when it happens. The actual work is the same.

What's included

A genuine bond or end of lease clean goes further than a regular clean. It typically covers:

• Inside the oven, rangehood and cooktop
• Inside cupboards, drawers and wardrobes
• Inside the fridge (if included), defrosted and wiped
• Bathroom detailing: grout, tiles, showerscreen and exhaust fans
• Skirting boards, door frames, light switches and window tracks
• Windows, sills and blinds
• Floors vacuumed and mopped throughout

Carpet steam cleaning is sometimes required by a lease and is usually priced separately from the clean itself.

What to check before you book

• Is it priced as a fixed package or hourly? A fixed price gives certainty, as long as you know what's included.
• Does it include a return visit? If your agent flags something at inspection, find out whether that's covered at no extra cost.
• What's excluded? Carpet cleaning, pest control and garden upkeep are commonly separate.
• Who's doing the work? Ask whether cleaners are employees or subcontractors, and whether they're insured.

Housekept's end of lease cleaning

Our end of lease cleaning covers everything above as standard, priced from $600 for a studio or one-bedroom up to $1,342 for five bedrooms (prices include GST, correct as at October 2026). Every package includes a no-cost return visit if your agent asks for a touch-up on anything that was part of our clean. Oven and carpet cleaning are optional extras, quoted separately.

Bond cleaning FAQs

Does a bond clean guarantee I'll get my bond back?

No cleaner can guarantee that, since the final decision rests with your landlord or agent. A thorough clean that follows your original condition report gives you the best chance of a smooth handover.

Do I need carpet steam cleaning?

Check your lease. Some agreements require it at the end of a tenancy and others don't.

How far in advance should I book?

As soon as you have a confirmed move-out date, since end of lease slots can book up around common moving periods.

Ready to book your bond clean? Book online or see our pricing.