When a lease ends, one of the most common reasons tenants lose part of their bond is poor cleaning. In Victoria, rental laws clearly state that the property must be returned in the same condition as when the lease began — minus fair wear and tear. This is not just a guideline; it directly affects whether you get your bond back.
Furnished and unfurnished rentals both need thorough cleaning, but the tasks involved can differ. A furnished property includes more surfaces and items to clean, such as sofas, appliances, and beds. In contrast, unfurnished homes often show more hidden dirt once everything has been moved out.
For both setups, detail matters. Skipping small things — like dust on skirting boards or grime in tile grout — can lead to issues during the final inspection. If there’s a disagreement over cleanliness, it may even end up in front of VCAT (Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal), which handles rental disputes.
Key Differences Between Furnished and Unfurnished Properties
Not all rentals are the same — and when it’s time to move out, the cleaning isn’t either. Furnished and unfurnished homes come with their own challenges, which directly affect cleaning time, detail, and cost.
Furnished Rentals
In furnished properties, you’re dealing with more than just empty rooms. You need to clean around or under furniture, vacuum upholstery, and wipe down every surface — from dining tables to bedside drawers. Appliances like fridges, ovens, and microwaves (often included) also need full interior and exterior cleaning. Even mattresses and cushions may need attention.
Unfurnished Rentals
On the surface, unfurnished places might seem easier to clean. No furniture, no problem — right? But the bare layout shows every scuff, dust patch, and stain. What was hidden by a bed or couch is now exposed. The job may be quicker, but there’s nowhere to hide dust or grime.
Cleaning Time & Pricing
More items = more hours. That’s why furnished property cleaning usually costs more and takes longer. Cleaners may also need extra tools or cleaning agents for upholstered items or appliance degreasing. In contrast, unfurnished properties often follow a simpler checklist.
General Bond Cleaning Checklist (Applies to Both Furnished and Unfurnished)
No matter the property type, landlords expect a high cleaning standard at the end of a lease. Whether it’s a fully furnished flat or a bare rental, missing the basics can cost you part of your bond.
Here’s what every end-of-lease clean in Victoria should include:
- Ceilings and walls: Remove all cobwebs, dust, insect marks, and smudges.
- Air vents and exhaust fans: Wipe out built-up dust in kitchen, bathroom, and laundry fans.
- Air conditioning units: Clean filters and wipe external surfaces.
- Light fittings and switches: Wipe every fixture, switchboard, and light shade — no smudges or dust.
- Skirting boards and doors: Clean the trims, baseboards, and all internal doors.
- Windows: Clean inside and outside (where safely accessible), including tracks and frames.
- Shelves and built-ins: Dust and wipe all shelving, wardrobes, and storage units.
- Floors: Vacuum carpets, mop tiles, vinyl, and floorboards.
- Window coverings: Vacuum or wash blinds and curtains (depending on fabric type).
- Garage and outdoor areas: Sweep out garages, patios, and balconies.
Furnished Property Bond Cleaning Checklist
Cleaning a furnished rental takes extra time and care. From fabric couches to kitchen appliances, everything must be spotless before the agent inspects. A single missed item could delay your bond refund.
A. Furniture and Upholstery
Furniture collects dust quickly, especially under and behind heavy items. Here’s what needs attention:
- Dust and wipe all surfaces — including sofas, chairs, beds, tables, and nightstands.
- Vacuum cushions, mattresses, and fabric upholstery.
- Polish wooden furniture (if the finish allows).
- Tip: Pack up personal items like books and decor before the cleaners arrive. It saves time and avoids damage.
B. Kitchen (with Appliances Included)
Appliances in furnished properties must be cleaned inside and out — and that includes deep degreasing.
- Oven: remove grime and baked-on grease.
- Microwave: clean turntable and interior.
- Fridge and freezer: wipe shelves, drawers, and seals.
- Dishwasher: clean filter, door edges, and spray arms.
- Rangehood: degrease filters and clean outside.
- Wipe all counters, stovetop, splash backs.
- Disinfect sink and tap handles.
- Empty and clean garbage disposal (if present). C. Bathroom
Expect extra cleaning time here — furnished properties often have added bathroom storage or decor.
- Remove items and wipe all cabinet interiors.
- Scrub and disinfect shower, tub, toilet, and basin.
- Clean mirrors and shower screens (no watermarks left behind).
- Wipe tiles, clean grout, and check for mould.
- Sanitize floor tiles and bathroom exhaust fans.
D. Bedrooms
Bedrooms in furnished rentals require a deeper clean than unfurnished ones.
- Dust all furniture and hard surfaces.
- Wipe wardrobes, drawers, and bedside tables.
- Vacuum or steam clean mattresses.
- Wash bed linens if agreed with the agent.
E. What Cleaners Don’t Cover
There are a few things professional cleaners skip — and you’re expected to handle them:
- Fragile décor (e.g., picture frames, clocks, lamps, vases).
- Any personal items left out.
- Heavy or delicate items that can’t be safely moved.
Unfurnished Property Bond Cleaning Checklist
An empty property may look easier to clean — but it often hides more dirt. Without furniture, agents can spot every smudge and scratch. That means attention to detail matters more than ever.
A. Kitchen (Built-in Appliances Only)
Most unfurnished rentals still include a few core appliances. These must be spotless:
- Oven: remove grease and burnt food from all surfaces.
- Stovetop: clean burners, knobs, and trays.
- Rangehood: degrease filters and wipe external panels.
- Sink and tap: disinfect and polish.
- All cupboards: wipe shelves, handles, and doors.
- Countertops: clean all surfaces, including edges.B. Bathroom
The bathroom process stays the same — no shortcuts here.
- Scrub shower, toilet, sink, and bathtub.
- Wipe mirrors, tiles, and cabinets.
- Sanitize floors, tap handles, and fans.C. General Cleaning
With nothing to hide behind, even small marks stand out. Here’s where to focus:
- Wipe down baseboards and skirting.
- Clean walls — especially scuff marks, fingerprints, and corners.
- Clean inside window frames and sills.
- Mop all hard floors and vacuum any carpets.
D. Laundry, Garage, and Outdoor Areas
Don’t forget the areas outside your main living space — these get checked too.
- Laundry: clean tubs, taps, benches, and splash backs.
- Garage: sweep floor, wipe down walls and doors.
- Patio: sweep and clear debris. If any outdoor seating is provided, wipe it down.
E. What’s Not Included
Some tasks need their own booking. Standard bond cleans do not cover:
- Mould removal (walls, ceilings, grout).
- Pest treatments (in case of fleas, cockroaches, etc.).
Bond Cleaning Tips (Both Furnished and Unfurnished)
Cleaning your rental property before moving out doesn’t have to be a headache. Follow these tips to make the process smoother and ensure you get your full bond back:
1. Declutter Before You Start
Clear out any personal items, boxes, or rubbish. This not only makes cleaning easier but also ensures the property is ready for a thorough inspection.
2. Use Separate Checklists for Furnished and Unfurnished Properties
A furnished home requires extra attention to upholstery, furniture, and appliances. Unfurnished properties need more focus on floors, walls, and built-in storage. Keep two separate lists to stay organized.
3. Photograph Everything After Cleaning
Before handing the keys back, take photos of every room. This gives you evidence of the property’s condition and can protect you in case of disputes later.
“Photos are worth more than a thousand words — especially if the agent claims something is dirty after cleaning.”
– Tenant Relations Expert
4. Communicate Clearly With Your Cleaners
Let your cleaners know what’s in-scope (e.g., kitchen surfaces) and what’s excluded (e.g., mold removal). Clear communication will help avoid surprises and keep the cleaning process on track.
5. Know Your Agency/Landlord’s Requirements
Every landlord or property manager may have their own standards. Check the cleaning guidelines ahead of time so there are no last-minute surprises. Some may require professional cleaners, while others may just need you to follow basic standards.
Final Inspection & Wrapping Up
The final step in your bond cleaning process is ensuring your property is in the best possible condition for inspection. Follow these tips to make sure you’re fully prepared:
1. Return the Property to Its Original Condition
The property should be returned in the same condition as when you first moved in. This includes cleaning every nook and cranny and addressing any wear and tear as best as possible.
2. Clean Thoroughly to Avoid Bond Deductions
A deep clean is essential to avoid bond deductions. Focus on areas that are often overlooked, like skirting boards, air vents, and behind large appliances.
“The smallest details can make a big difference in securing your bond refund.”
– Property Manager
3. Keep Invoices and Proof of Professional Cleaning
If you hired professional cleaners, keep copies of invoices and receipts. This proof of service can be crucial if there’s a dispute about the condition of the property.
4. Be Ready for the Agent’s Final Walkthrough
Once your cleaning is complete, be ready for the agent’s final walkthrough. Ensure the property is empty, clean, and presentable. Having everything ready will make the inspection go smoothly and increase the chances of a full bond refund.
Book Your Professional Bond Cleaning Today!
Don’t risk losing your bond over cleaning issues. Book professional bond cleaning services to ensure your property is spotless and ready for inspection. With experienced cleaners handling everything, you can focus on your move without worrying about disputes.
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