Failing your final inspection is one of the most stressful — and expensive — experiences a Melbourne renter can have. The good news is that property managers and real estate agents use a consistent checklist. Know what's on that checklist and you know exactly what to clean.
From our experience across 12,000+ cleans: The kitchen and bathroom together account for the vast majority of re-clean requests. If you only have limited time, that is where to focus first. Items marked 🔴 HOT are the most commonly failed.
The REIV-Aligned Inspection Checklist
The Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) provides a standard inspection checklist used by most Melbourne property managers. Here is the full checklist, room by room.
The 5 Items Most Commonly Failed
Based on our 12,000+ cleans across Melbourne: These 5 items cause the most re-clean requests. Make sure these are spotless before your inspection.
1. Oven interior — Built-up grease is the number one inspection fail across Melbourne. An oven that looks clean on the outside can still fail if the interior racks and base are not thoroughly degreased.
2. Shower screen — Soap scum and water mineral deposits build up on glass shower screens over time. A quick wipe is not enough — they need to be treated with a descaler and polished to streak-free clarity.
3. Rangehood filters — Agents specifically check rangehood filters for grease buildup. These need to be soaked and degreased, not just wiped.
4. Exhaust fans — Dust accumulates on exhaust fan covers in bathrooms and is a very common inspection flag. It takes 2 minutes to clean but is often missed.
5. Skirting boards — Agents run their finger along skirting boards. Dust and marks that accumulate over a tenancy must be fully removed.
What's Not on the Standard Checklist
The following items are not typically included in a standard end of lease clean and are usually quoted as extras:
Full wall washing, blind washing, mould remediation, external windows above ground level, garage floors, and garden maintenance. Discuss these with your cleaning company before booking to get an accurate quote.
Want Us to Handle the Whole Checklist?
Our REIV-aligned checklist covers every item on this page. 99% bond return rate. 30-day agent satisfaction guarantee. Same-day available.