End of Lease Cleaning in Canberra: Inclusions and Handover Checks

A clear end-of-lease scope helps tenants, owners and property managers agree what will be cleaned before key handover. This guide explains Dustate’s starting prices, separately quoted work and the difference between a cleaning rework promise and a bond decision.

Start with the property’s records

Find the original condition report, current photos and the agent’s exit checklist. Use them to identify cleaning tasks and existing condition issues. A checklist is useful for planning, but it should not be treated as proof that every listed improvement is the tenant’s legal responsibility.

The ACT Government’s ending-a-tenancy guidance addresses return condition with allowance for wear and tear. For a dispute about an obligation, seek tenancy advice rather than relying on a cleaning contractor’s interpretation. A cleaner can quote the work; it cannot decide a bond claim.

Agree the room-by-room cleaning scope

Dustate’s current end-of-lease service lists oven and rangehood cleaning, cupboard and drawer interiors, bathroom detail, skirtings, window sills and tracks, and floors in its standard scope. Compare the written quote with the actual property and name any additional appliances, wall treatment or difficult access. Existing damage, failing finishes and deep staining may require separate assessment or repair.

Starting prices and add-ons

Dustate’s end-of-lease service starts from $350 for a one-bedroom property, $470 for two bedrooms and $550 for three bedrooms. Four or more bedrooms require a free inspection rather than a fixed advertised starting figure. Prices are in AUD, with a fixed, GST-inclusive written quote based on the property and scope.

Carpet steam cleaning is a separate add-on. It is not included automatically in the end-of-lease price. External windows are also separately quoted. If both are required, identify them before booking so timing and total cost can be agreed.

Do not assume that every ACT tenancy requires professional carpet cleaning. Check the actual circumstances and obtain tenancy advice if an obligation is unclear. The cleaning quote should record the service you choose, without presenting a universal legal requirement.

What the 72-hour rework promise means

Contact Dustate within 72 hours of the clean completing if an agreed-scope cleaning item needs attention. Under the 72-hour rework terms, Dustate returns to re-clean the affected area at no additional cost. Areas outside the scope, areas inaccessible during the visit and issues arising after the team leaves are excluded. Give Dustate the opportunity to remedy the issue before engaging another provider.

This is not a bond refund guarantee. A bond decision can involve damage, rent or other matters outside cleaning, and the cleaner cannot promise what a landlord, property manager or tribunal will decide. Keep the original quote and handover records available if an issue arises.

Schedule the visit after access is clear

Arrange removal of belongings and the main removalist work before the final clean. Confirm that water and electricity remain available, and agree keys, parking and building access. Tell the cleaner if any trades will return or rooms cannot be emptied.

Leave a practical opportunity to check the result before the final inspection where your moving schedule allows. If windows need separate attention, the window guide explains the sides and components to specify.

Handover checklist

• Compare the written scope with the property-specific checklist.
• Confirm carpet, external glass and other extras separately.
• Record existing damage or marks that may not be removable.
• Arrange utilities, vacant access and a contact for questions.
• Check the completed work and keep relevant photographs.
• Raise an agreed-scope cleaning concern promptly within the rework arrangement.

For budgeting, see the end-of-lease cost and add-on guide. For scheduling, the moving-out cleaning timeline places the clean between removals and key handover.

Request a written handover quote

Send Dustate the bedroom and bathroom count, condition photos, exit checklist and vacate date. List carpet and exterior-window requirements so the written quote covers the intended work before booking.