End of Lease Cleaning Checklist: What Agents Actually Check

Published 2026-08-11 · End of Lease

Most bond disputes come down to a handful of predictable trouble spots. Here’s what real estate agents actually check during an end of lease inspection, room by room.

Kitchen

• Inside and outside of the oven, including racks
• Rangehood filter (frequently missed)
• Inside cupboards and drawers
• Splashback and benchtops
• Inside the fridge, if left behind

Bathroom

• Grout lines, not just tile surfaces
• Shower screen soap scum
• Exhaust fan dust build-up
• Behind and under the toilet

Living areas and bedrooms

• Skirting boards (dust accumulates here more than people expect)
• Light switches and door frames
• Interior windows and tracks
• Wardrobe interiors, including tracks

Floors

• Carpets — agents often expect professional steam cleaning specifically, not just vacuuming
• Hard floors free of scuff marks

What gets missed most often

Rangehood filters, exhaust fans, and skirting boards are the three most commonly missed items in a DIY bond clean — and they’re exactly the kind of detail an experienced agent checks first.

FAQ

Do I need carpet steam cleaning for end of lease?

Many agents specifically require it — check your lease agreement, as it’s often a condition rather than optional.

What if the agent isn’t satisfied?

Most reputable cleaning services offer to return and address specific issues raised within a short window after the clean.

How far in advance should I book?

Booking as soon as your move-out date is confirmed gives the most flexibility, especially around end-of-month periods when demand is highest.