Typical Move Out Cleaning Cost: 9 Key Pricing Factors

Homes with extra bathrooms, staircases, or multiple living zones tend to attract higher fees due to additional surfaces and touchpoints requiring attention.

2. Cleaning Condition and Dirt Buildup

Not all homes are left equally clean. Some require deeper scrubbing due to months—or even years—of grime accumulation. In these cases, cleaners may charge higher rates due to the added labour involved.

Cleaners often ask for property photos beforehand to estimate workload. If the home has greasy stovetops, soap-scum-covered showers, or carpet stains, it’s reasonable to expect a cost hike to match the condition.

3. Carpet Steam Cleaning Add-Ons

Carpet cleaning isn’t always included in standard move-out cleans but is often required to meet rental agreements, especially when pets or visible stains are involved. For tips on cleaning specific areas like carpets or ovens, follow these steps to clean upholstery without a machine. This service is usually billed per room.

Approximate carpet steam cleaning costs:



• 1–2 carpeted rooms: $80–$150
  
  
• 3+ rooms or entire home: $200–$300
  
  
• Spot pet treatment (urine/stains): +$30–$60
  
  

Steam cleaning helps secure full bond refunds in rentals where hygiene is strictly checked.

4. Kitchen and Oven Cleaning Requirements

The kitchen, especially the oven, is one of the most scrutinised zones during final inspections. While surface cleaning is often included, deep-cleaning appliances typically cost extra.

Expect these typical add-ons:

• Oven deep clean: $40–$80
  
  
• Rangehood degrease: $20–$30
  
  
• Fridge internal clean (if not removed): $25–$50
  
  

Failure to clean cooking appliances properly is one of the top reasons tenants lose part of their bond.

5. Wall Scuffs and Skirting Board Cleaning

Walls and skirting boards don’t always look dirty—but they often are. Agents inspect them closely for signs of wear and neglect. Cleaning quotes vary based on whether minor spot-cleaning or full wall washing is needed.

General pricing guide:

• Light spot treatment: Often included in base price
  
  
• Full wall wash: $30–$100, depending on surface area
  
  

Furniture drag marks, Blu-Tack residue, or children’s drawings can significantly raise cleaning complexity.

6. Balcony, Outdoor Areas and Window Glass

Balconies, patios, and glass doors are easy to forget—but highly visible on inspection day. Including them in a cleaning scope ensures no last-minute deductions for external appearance.

Here’s what to expect for outdoor cleaning extras:

• Balcony: $40–$100
  
  
• Sliding doors or external windows: $15–$30 per pane
  
  

If these areas are neglected, the whole property can look unkempt regardless of how spotless the inside is.

7. Accessibility and Parking Limitations

Logistics matter. Cleaners may charge more if it’s hard to reach your property or carry equipment upstairs. Limited parking access also causes time delays.

Common surcharge scenarios include:

• No elevator in multi-floor apartments
  
  
• Long walks from van to door
  
  
• No parking nearby
  
  

Expect surcharges ranging from $20–$50 when accessibility is poor.

8. Pets, Allergens, and Odour Treatments

Pets leave hair, odours, and sometimes flea issues behind—none of which are ignored during property inspections. These require more intensive cleaning or even pest control.

Additional charges could include:

• Pet hair removal: +$20 or included in premium packages
  
  
• Odour treatment: +$30–$60
  
  
• Flea treatment (if in lease): +$80–$150
  
  

Failing to treat pet-related issues can result in re-clean requests or withheld bond amounts.

9. Booking Lead Time and Peak Periods

Just like any service, timing affects pricing. Cleaners often charge more for last-minute bookings or during high-demand periods, such as the end of the month.

Expect these surcharges:



• Booked within 48 hours: +10–20%
  
  
• After-hours or weekend clean: +$50–$100
  
  

Planning ahead allows for better availability and often more competitive pricing.

FAQs About Typical Move-Out Cleaning Costs

Before hiring cleaners, many tenants ask similar questions—especially about legality, expectations, and cost-saving strategies. Let’s break them down.

How much does a typical move-out cleaning cost in Australia?

Move-out cleaning in Australian cities usually costs between $200 and $650, depending on the home’s size and condition. A one-bedroom flat with minimal cleaning may sit at the lower end, while a three-bedroom townhouse with pet hair, carpet stains and multiple bathrooms can push the price well above $600. If tenants request optional add-ons like oven or window cleaning, this further increases the quote. Price also fluctuates between metro and regional areas due to labour availability and demand.

Do real estate agents require professional cleaning?

There’s no legal obligation for professional cleaning, but real estate agents strongly prefer it. Most leases specify that tenants must return the property in the same condition it was received. Agents often use detailed inspection checklists, and missed areas like ovens, skirting boards, or windows can result in formal cleaning breaches. A professional service with an itemised invoice helps tenants avoid disputes and ensures a smoother bond release.

Can tenants clean the property themselves to save money?

Yes—but it’s risky without following strict cleaning checklists. DIY cleaning may save money, but many tenants underestimate what’s required. Areas like oven interiors, glass tracks, ceiling fans and wall spots are commonly missed. Many tenants prefer hiring an office cleaning team to handle detailed move-out cleaning tasks efficiently. While self-cleaning can work for small apartments, larger homes or tight inspection standards make professional cleaning a safer option.

Why Typical Move-Out Cleaning Costs Shouldn’t Be a Mystery

Move-out cleaning isn't just about tidying up—it's the final box to tick before securing that bond refund. Knowing the typical move-out cleaning cost and what drives it helps tenants plan realistically, avoid costly surprises, and finish their lease on a strong note. For more professional cleaning services and expert advice, trust Everyday Clean for reliable move-out cleaning solutions.

From layout and cleanliness to pets and balconies, the factors influencing price are all manageable with preparation. Book early, communicate expectations, and clarify what’s included to ensure a stress-free handover. 

Author: Everyday Clean Content Team
About the Author: At Everyday Clean, we believe a clean space should feel good, not complicated. With over 20 years of experience, our team has learned what truly matters to customers: reliability, honesty, and results you can see. We share practical cleaning tips and real-world advice to help you care for your home or workplace with confidence. Every guide we write comes from everyday experience, what works, what doesn’t, and how to make cleaning simpler for everyone.