The standard of cleanliness required for a rental property in Victoria, as of December 2025, is dictated by the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 and is generally expected to be a professional-level clean, returning the property to the condition it was in at the start of the tenancy, fair wear and tear excepted.
Currently in Melbourne, and heading into 2026, the Victorian Civil and Tribunal (VCAT) increasingly favours detailed evidence when assessing cleaning disputes. This means photographic and video evidence taken at both the start and end of the tenancy is crucial. In the Eastern Suburbs, where properties often command higher rents and attract discerning tenants, expectations are particularly high. Sellers preparing a former rental property for sale should realise that a standard ‘tidy’ is unlikely to suffice. Buyers in areas like Balwyn and Doncaster prioritise presentation, and a professionally cleaned property significantly enhances appeal. Typical costs for a bond clean in Melbourne range from $300-$600 for a standard 3-bedroom house, but can increase depending on the property’s size and condition. Fletchers’ experience shows that investing in a thorough clean can minimise potential issues during the sales process and maximise buyer confidence. We often see properties with unresolved cleaning disputes take longer to sell, or achieve a lower price.
Ultimately, a professional bond clean is the benchmark expected for rental properties in Victoria in 2026, and a high standard of cleanliness is a key factor in attracting buyers and achieving a strong result when selling.