End of Lease Cleaning for Final Inspection: What Agents Really Look For
- Jenny Kakoudakis
- Jul 3
- 4 min read
Are you preparing for end of lease cleaning for final inspection and unsure what your landlord will actually look for? You’re not alone. Many tenants lose part of their bond simply because they didn't understand what inspectors really check.
In this article, you’ll learn what’s inspected, the difference between damage and fair wear and tear, and how to protect your bond.
What Is a Final Inspection and Why Does It Matter?
Final inspections happen when your tenancy ends. Landlords or agents will compare the current condition of the property to the entry condition report you signed when moving in. Their goal is to check whether the property is reasonably clean and whether any damage exceeds normal wear and tear.
If anything looks dirty, damaged, or missing, your bond refund might be delayed or deducted. Understanding what landlords focus on helps you clean smarter and avoid common traps.
It’s also a good idea to request a pre-final inspection or conduct a mock walkthrough yourself.
This gives you the chance to fix any missed issues in advance and avoid costly re-cleans or disputes. Make sure everything matches the exit condition report expectations.
What Do Landlords Look for During End of Lease Cleaning for Final Inspection?
Landlords rely on a rental inspection checklist to ensure nothing gets missed. The most commonly inspected areas include:
Kitchen: oven, range hood, stovetop, fridge (if provided), cupboards, sink and splashbacks. Look for grease, grime, or mould.
Bathroom: toilet, shower, mirror, tiles, drawers. Inspect for soap scum, hair, mildew.
General rooms: windows, sills, tracks, skirting boards, walls, light fittings, air vents, and blinds.
Outdoor areas: lawns, gardens, balconies, garages. No rubbish, no oil stains.
Under sinks: often checked for leaks or signs of damage.
Smoke detectors and air filters: must be clean and functioning.
They’ll also check for any damage that goes beyond what’s considered fair wear and tear.
Fair Wear and Tear vs Tenant Damage
You’re not expected to return the property in brand new condition. Scratches on old floors or faded paint are expected. But a broken window, pet stains, or burn marks are not.
Fair wear and tear examples:
Faded curtains
Light carpet wear
Minor scuff marks on walls
Damage examples:
Torn blinds
Burnt carpet
Holes in walls
Understand the fair wear and tear definition so you know what you're responsible for. If the carpet is over 8–10 years old or the paint over 5–10 years, it’s likely considered depreciated and not your responsibility to fix.
Is Professional Cleaning Required?
In most rental laws, you can't be required to have the place professionally cleaned. This rule applies unless the home was cleaned before you moved in, or if there are pets or a lot of dirt that need attention. But here's the catch: if your lease includes a clause, or your place really needs it, professional cleaning may still be expected.
For high-traffic areas like ovens, carpets, and bathrooms, hiring a pro saves time and ensures you pass. Always get a receipt if you do.
How to Protect Your Bond With Documentation
Take detailed entry photos when you move in.
Keep copies of the signed entry condition report.
If you do repairs, keep receipts and before/after photos.
Submit your bond claim first via the RTBA.
This puts the onus on the landlord to dispute your claim. If they do, they’ll need to justify deductions at VCAT.
When Landlords Cross the Line
Landlords must focus on inspecting their property — not your personal belongings. They can’t dig through your drawers, safes, or private furniture. If they attempt to inspect areas not related to their property, it could be seen as harassment.
Tenants have rights. If needed, document everything, install cameras, and file complaints. Renters in Victoria can rely on RTBA and bond dispute resolution VCAT if a landlord tries a cash grab tactic.
FAQ
What do landlords check at end of tenancy inspection?
They check the property’s cleanliness, compare against the condition report, and look for damage beyond fair wear and tear.
How to get full bond back in Victoria?
Submit your bond claim directly to RTBA before the agent does. Clean thoroughly, document everything, and be ready to go to VCAT if needed.
Is carpet cleaning mandatory at end of lease?
Only if the carpet was professionally cleaned before you moved in, or if lease terms or pet ownership make it necessary. Always check your lease.
How to dispute unfair bond claims in Australia?
Collect evidence like condition reports, receipts, and photos. Then, submit your claim. If there are disputes, respond at VCAT or your local tribunal.
Conclusion
Knowing the final inspection process lets you take charge, prevent issues, and boost your bond return. Don’t just clean — clean strategically. Know the standards, prepare the documents, and use your rights.
For expert help with bond cleaning standards, fair pricing, and real estate needs in Melbourne, contact O2OCleaning.
Our writers like to blog about interiors. We launched the award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2015 and the luxury property and interior decor blog www.alltheprettyhomes.com in 2024 to cover all your interior design, travel and lifestyle inspiration needs. Download our free bathroom renovation guide here.
