What the law says
Under NSW tenancy rules, a tenant must leave the property reasonably clean, in the same condition as at the start of the tenancy, allowing for fair wear and tear. There is no law that says a professional must do the cleaning. If you can meet that standard yourself, you are within your rights.
When your lease can require professional cleaning
A landlord cannot make a blanket demand for professional cleaning, but a specific, agreed clause can be enforceable, most commonly:
- Professional carpet cleaning if the carpets were professionally cleaned before you moved in. See our guide on carpet cleaning and your bond.
- Pest or flea treatment if you kept pets at the property.
Always check your lease and keep any receipts.
DIY or hire a professional?
A DIY clean can work for a small, well-kept property if you have the time and the right products. For larger homes, heavy build-up, or when you simply cannot spare a full day before your inspection, a professional bond clean is faster and lower-risk. Compare the two in our guide on end of lease cleaning versus regular cleaning.