Before you book

Hiring an end of lease cleaner: what to ask, what to avoid

Two end of lease quotes for the “same” job often aren't the same job at all — the gap is usually scope: what's included, what's billed as an extra, and what you confirmed before you booked. Here's how to tell a fair deal from an expensive one. Any prices below are modelled estimates, not measured local prices.

The one that catches most people out

Comparing only on price

Modelled assumption: $250 excluding oven/carpets isn't cheaper than $420 including everything.

Ask these before you book

Questions to ask an end of lease cleaner

Most overcharging hides in the scope, not the headline price. These pin it down before you commit.

  • 1

    Does your quote include carpet steam, or is that extra?

    If it's extra, expect around $30–$60.

  • 2

    Is oven deep clean part of the price, or charged separately?

    If it's extra, expect around $40–$80.

  • 3

    Will I be charged extra for full window wash?

  • 4

    Is balcony/patio included, or an add-on?

    If it's extra, expect around $30–$60.

  • 5

    Can you put the full scope and the final price in writing before any work starts?

    Scope disputes are the single most common complaint. A written list is what protects you.

  • 6

    Is GST included in the price you have quoted?

    Confirm whether the supplier is GST-registered and whether GST is included. Check the ATO for registration rules.

Vet before you sign

Three checks that take five minutes

Check the licence

For licensed trades, ask for the licence number and confirm it on your state's fair-trading or licensing site before you book. Unlicensed work can void your insurance.

Confirm they're insured

Public liability cover protects you if something gets damaged on the job. If an operator can't confirm it, that's a red flag.

Insist on a written quote

A fair quote itemises the scope, names what's excluded, and states whether GST is included. Verbal quotes are where disputes start.

Learn from others

Other mistakes worth avoiding

Booking last minute

Modelled assumption: Urgent bookings cost 20-50% more.

No written inclusions

Get a written list. Scope disputes are the top complaint.

Ignoring bond-back guarantee

They return free if agent rejects.

Know the scope

What's usually included, and what costs extra

Usually included

  • ✓Kitchen surfaces, stovetop, sink
  • ✓Bathroom/toilet scrub
  • ✓Mopping/vacuuming all floors
  • ✓Skirting boards
  • ✓Dusting lights/fans
  • ✓Inside cupboards/drawers
  • ✓Cobweb removal
  • ✓Window sills

Usually charged extra

  • +Carpet steam · $30–$60
  • +Oven deep clean · $40–$80
  • +Full window wash
  • +Balcony/patio · $30–$60
  • +Garage · $40–$70
  • +Blinds · $10–$15
  • +Wall marks
  • +Mould treatment

What pushes the price up: heavy soiling/mould, carpet steam included, oven deep clean, window/blind cleaning, garage/outdoor area, same-day urgency, weekend/holiday booking, difficult access, pets.

FAQ

End of Lease Cleaning questions, answered

Do I need it for my bond?+
Check the tenancy requirements for your state or territory and the terms of your lease. This guide does not establish who must pay or whether professional cleaning is required.
Bond-back guarantee worth it?+
Yes. Without it you may pay twice.
Clean before they arrive?+
Remove items and rubbish. Empty property is faster.
How far ahead to book?+
1-2 weeks minimum. End of month is peak.

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