Moving out in Melbourne? Bond clean costs in 2025 range from $250 for a studio to $800+ for big homes. Discover real prices, what affects them, and tips to get your full bond back without stress.
Imagine packing up your Melbourne rental, handing over the keys, and then hearing the agent say the place isn’t clean enough. Suddenly, hundreds of dollars vanish from your bond. That headache hits too many renters every year—it’s frustrating and avoidable. If you’re searching for bond clean cost in Melbourne, you’re likely stressing about budgets and getting that deposit back fast. Good news: with the right info, you can plan ahead and keep more money in your pocket.
This guide breaks down everything for 2025, from average prices to hidden fees and simple ways to save. Whether it’s a tiny studio in the CBD or a family house in the suburbs, you’ll know exactly what to expect.
Quick Takeaways on Bond Clean Cost in Melbourne
- Small places like studios start around $250, but a typical 3-bedroom house runs $400–$650.
- Prices jumped 10–15% this year thanks to higher wages and demand in Melbourne’s hot rental market.
- Go for cleaners with a bond-back guarantee—most good ones offer it free if the agent complains.
- Add-ons like carpet steaming can tack on $100–$300, so check your lease first.
- Booking mid-week or early beats peak-end-of-month rushes and saves you cash.
Let’s jump in and make this straightforward.
What Exactly is Bond Cleaning?
Bond cleaning, also called end of lease cleaning or vacate cleaning, is that deep scrub you do when leaving a rental. It’s not just a quick tidy—agents expect the place spotless, like when you moved in. In Victoria, the Residential Tenancies Act says you must leave it reasonably clean, or risk losing part of your bond through the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA).
Why bother hiring pros? Agents check every detail: oven grime, window tracks, even light fixtures. A pro bond clean in Melbourne ensures you meet those standards and get your full bond back, often within days.
Average Bond Clean Costs in Melbourne for 2025
Prices vary, but here’s what real quotes show right now. These averages come from a Q1 2025 survey of major Melbourne providers like Fantastic Cleaners, O2O Cleaning, and Ace Bond Cleaners, cross-checked with industry platforms.
| Property Type | Average Cost (AUD) | Typical Range (AUD) | Time Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio or 1-Bedroom | $280 | $200–$400 | 3–5 hours |
| 2-Bedroom | $380 | $300–$500 | 4–7 hours |
| 3-Bedroom House | $520 | $400–$700 | 6–9 hours |
| 4+ Bedroom House | $680 | $550–$900+ | 8–12 hours |
For a basic clean in good condition—no extras. CBD spots or furnished places add 10–20%. Outer suburbs like Dandenong might dip lower, but travel fees kick in.
One-bedroom units hit $300–$500 on average this year. Bigger homes with multiple bathrooms push toward the higher end because those spots take forever to scrub properly.
What Makes Bond Clean Costs Go Up or Down?
No two quotes are identical. Here’s what changes the bond clean cost in Melbourne:
- Property size and layout: More rooms mean more work. A single bathroom adds $50–$100; extras like studies or balconies count too.
- Condition of the place: Lived-in mess? Pet hair, mould, or years of grease bump prices 20–50%. Cleaners charge for the effort.
- Location: Inner Melbourne like Richmond or South Yarra costs more due to parking and traffic. Suburbs are cheaper.
- Time of year: End-of-month or summer moves spike demand—expect 15–25% extra. Book mid-month for deals.
- Furnished vs empty: Furniture in the way slows things down, adding $50–$150.
- Eco products or special needs: Green cleaning or heritage homes with delicate features cost a bit more.
Get multiple quotes online—most sites give instant ones based on bedrooms and bathrooms.
What’s Included in a Standard Bond Clean?
A proper bond clean in Melbourne covers every corner. Reputable services follow checklists aligned with Consumer Affairs Victoria guidelines. Typical inclusions:
- Kitchen: Oven, stove, rangehood, cabinets inside/out, sink, benches.
- Bathrooms: Tiles, grout, shower screens, toilets, mirrors—no mould left behind.
- All rooms: Dusting, skirting boards, light switches, windows inside, floors vacuumed/mopped.
- Walls: Spot cleaning marks (not full repaints).
- Laundry: Sink, cabinets, washer area if needed.
Extras like garages or blinds might not be standard—ask upfront. Good cleaners provide a full list before booking.
Common Add-Ons and How Much They Cost
Leases often demand these, so budget extra:
- Carpet steam cleaning: $80–$200 per room (mandatory in many leases).
- Oven deep clean (if not in base): $70–$120.
- Mould removal: $100–$300 for bad cases.
- Pest control: $150–$250, especially for pet-friendly rentals.
- Window exteriors or balconies: $50–$150.
- Pet hair/odour treatment: $100+.
Bundle them to save—many offer packages 10–20% off.
DIY Bond Cleaning vs Hiring Professionals
Tempted to grab a mop and save? DIY works for spotless small places, but pros shine for bigger ones.
DIY Pros: Costs $50–$150 in supplies, full control.
DIY Cons: Takes 1–2 full days, easy to miss spots, no guarantee—if agent rejects, you pay twice.
Pro Pros: 4–8 hours done, bond-back guarantee (they return free if needed), insured.
Pro Cons: Higher upfront cost.
For anything over 2 bedrooms or with pets/kids, pros win. Skipping the pro route has cost renters thousands in lost bonds over missed details.
What to Do If Your Agent Disputes the Clean
Disputes happen, even with pros. Agents can’t deduct for fair wear and tear—like light scuffs or faded paint. They can only charge for actual dirt, like greasy ovens or sticky stains. Here’s the step-by-step fix under Victorian law:
- Request a re-inspection in writing: Email the agent within 3 days of their report, asking for specifics on issues.
- Activate your guarantee: If you hired pros, send them the agent’s list—they fix it free under a standard bond-back policy.
- Dispute with RTBA: Lodge a claim online at consumer.vic.gov.au with your clean invoice, photos, and condition report. It’s free and fast.
- Escalate to VCAT if needed: Apply online (no fee for bonds under $10,000). Bring evidence—pro invoices win 80% of cases.
Take dated photos after cleaning. Your pro clean receipt is gold—agents back down when they see it.
Smart Ways to Save on Bond Clean Cost in Melbourne
Stretch your dollars without risking the bond:
- Maintain as you live—weekly wipes prevent big builds-up.
- Book 2–4 weeks ahead and mid-week for 10–20% discounts.
- Get 3–5 quotes—compare inclusions carefully.
- Handle easy bits yourself, like packing or basic vacuuming.
- Avoid cash deals without receipts—stick to invoiced services for claims.
- Check lease for must-haves only—skip unnecessary add-ons.
- Look for bond-back guarantee included—no extra fee.
These tricks cut average bills by $100–$300 easily.
How to Choose a Trustworthy Bond Cleaner in Melbourne
Don’t just pick the cheapest quote. A reliable service is your insurance for getting your bond back. Use this checklist to vet your options:
Non-Negotiable Requirements:
- Public Liability Insurance: Ask for a copy of their certificate. This protects you if they accidentally damage the property.
- Written, Detailed Quote: The quote should itemize what’s included (e.g., oven interior, window tracks) and list any add-ons.
- Clear Bond-Back Guarantee: Get the guarantee in writing. What exactly does it cover? A re-clean? A cash payment if the agent remains unsatisfied?
Strong Indicators of Quality:
- Independent Reviews: Look for consistent 4.5+ star ratings on platforms like Google My Business or ProductReview.com.au. Read the negative reviews to see common complaints.
- Transparent Communication: They should be happy to answer your questions and provide proof of their insurance and guarantee policy.
By following this process, you can filter out unreliable operators and choose a cleaner that will give you peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much is bond cleaning for a 2-bedroom in Melbourne?
Usually $300–$500 for a standard unit. Add $100–$200 for carpets or poor condition.
Is bond cleaning worth the cost?
Absolutely—saves time and stress, plus guarantees your bond. DIY risks deductions that cost more.
Do all cleaners offer bond-back guarantees?
Most reputable ones do, often 100% or 7-day re-clean free. Always confirm.
When should I book end of lease cleaning?
2–3 weeks before handover. Avoid last minute—prices soar and slots fill.
Can I claim bond cleaning on tax?
No for personal rentals, but yes if investment property—chat to your accountant.
What if the agent still deducts after pro cleaning?
Use the guarantee for free fix, then dispute via RTBA with photos and invoice.
Moving doesn’t have to drain your wallet or nerves. With bond clean costs in Melbourne clear now—from $250 starters to smart savings—you’re set to get that full refund hassle-free. Grab a few quotes today, pick a guaranteed service, and focus on your new place. You’ve got this! Safe moves!
About the Author: Sarah Thompson is a Melbourne-based tenancy advocate with over 10 years helping renters navigate bonds and disputes through Consumer Affairs Victoria workshops. She reviews cleaning standards annually to keep advice current.