Moving out of a rental property in Adelaide? Whether you’re shifting to a new home, relocating for work, or simply turning a page in life, there’s one task you can’t afford to ignore: bond cleaning. It might not be the most exciting part of your move, but it’s easily one of the most important — because your bond depends on it.
This comprehensive guide will help you understand exactly what bond cleaning in Adelaide involves, what’s expected by landlords and agents, and how to ensure you get every cent of your bond back — stress-free.
What Is Bond Cleaning?
Bond cleaning — also known as end of lease cleaning or exit cleaning — is the thorough cleaning of your rental property at the end of your tenancy. It’s designed to return the property to the same condition it was in when you first moved in, ensuring your full bond deposit is returned.
Why Is Bond Cleaning Crucial in Adelaide?
In Adelaide, property managers and landlords are particularly detail-oriented. They compare the property against the entry condition report to check for cleanliness and damage. Any area not properly cleaned can result in bond deductions — which can be frustrating and expensive.
What’s Included in a Bond Clean?
A full bond clean typically includes:
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Dusting and wiping all surfaces
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Cleaning kitchen appliances (oven, rangehood, stovetop)
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Sanitising bathrooms and toilets
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Washing walls and skirting boards
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Vacuuming and mopping floors
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Window and door cleaning
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Carpet steam cleaning (if required)
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Cleaning balconies, patios, and garages
Bond Cleaning Checklist by Area
Kitchen
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Clean inside and outside of oven
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Degrease rangehood filters
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Wipe down cupboards, drawers, splashbacks
Bathroom
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Scrub shower, tub, and tiles
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Remove mould and limescale
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Clean mirrors, basins, and toilets
Living Areas & Bedrooms
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Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures
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Steam clean carpets or vacuum thoroughly
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Wipe down doors, walls, and windowsills
Laundry
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Clean sink, bench, and tapware
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Mop floor and remove any build-up
Outdoor Spaces
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Sweep and clean patios or balconies
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Clear cobwebs, wipe down outdoor fittings
Common Areas Tenants Overlook
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Oven interiors
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Skirting boards and behind doors
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Blinds and curtain rails
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Ceiling vents and exhaust fans
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Inside cupboards and drawers
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Window tracks and flyscreens
Missing just one of these can delay your bond refund.
Advantages of Hiring a Bond Cleaning Service
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Saves time and energy
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Experienced in real estate standards
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Comes with bond-back guarantees
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Includes hard-to-clean items like ovens and carpets
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Faster turnaround and fewer headaches
It’s like having a team of cleaning ninjas ready to restore your property to perfection.
Choosing the Right Bond Cleaners in Adelaide
Look for these qualities:
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5-star reviews and testimonials
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Transparent pricing and no hidden fees
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Bond-back guarantee
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Insured and police-checked cleaners
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Local experience with Adelaide agencies
Always ask for an itemised quote and a full list of services.
Cost of Bond Cleaning in Adelaide
Bond cleaning prices vary based on property size and condition. Here’s a rough guide:
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1-bedroom unit: $150–$250
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2-bedroom apartment: $250–$400
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3-bedroom house: $400–$600+
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Extras: Carpet steam cleaning, pest control, external windows, etc.
Bundle services for better value.
How Long Does Bond Cleaning Take?
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Small units: 3–5 hours
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Medium homes: 5–8 hours
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Larger properties: Full day or more
Add extra time for carpet cleaning, windows, or large outdoor areas.
Bond Back Guarantees Explained
Many Adelaide cleaning companies offer a bond-back guarantee, which means:
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If the agent finds anything missed during the final inspection, the cleaner will return (usually free of charge) and fix it.
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This gives tenants peace of mind and helps avoid bond deductions.
Tips to Maximise Bond Return
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Take photos before and after cleaning
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Use the original entry condition report as a reference
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Remove all personal items before cleaning starts
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Communicate with your agent if you’re unsure about standards
When to Book Your Bond Clean
Book your cleaning for the last day of your lease, after moving all your belongings.
To avoid delays, schedule at least one week in advance — especially during peak moving seasons.
Eco-Friendly Bond Cleaning Options
Environmentally conscious? Ask your cleaning provider about:
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Non-toxic, biodegradable products
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Green-certified equipment
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Low-water or energy-efficient methods
A clean home doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense.
Conclusion: Make Your Exit Smooth & Simple
Bond cleaning in Adelaide isn’t just a formality — it’s a crucial part of your move. Whether you tackle it yourself or hire professionals, doing it right will help you:
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Secure your full bond refund
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Leave a great impression
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Move forward without the stress of cleaning disputes
A clean exit makes for a fresh start.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is professional bond cleaning required in Adelaide?
While it’s not legally required, it is highly recommended. Most landlords expect a professionally cleaned property to release the full bond.
2. Can I get my bond back without steam cleaning carpets?
Usually no — if your lease requires it (especially with pets), steam cleaning is mandatory.
3. What happens if the landlord isn’t happy with the clean?
If you hired a professional with a bond-back guarantee, they’ll usually re-clean the problem areas free of charge.
4. How far in advance should I book bond cleaners in Adelaide?
Ideally, 5–7 days in advance. Month-ends and weekends get booked quickly.
5. How do I know what’s expected for bond cleaning?
Refer to your entry condition report and tenancy agreement. If unsure, speak directly with your property manager.
