1. Confirm the end date and notice requirements
Do not rely only on a verbal discussion. Review the rental agreement and use the required written process for your situation. Confirm the final rent period, property handover date, inspection arrangements and where keys must be returned. Keep copies of notices and replies.
- Check the agreement and relevant Victorian guidance.
- Confirm the date the property must be vacant.
- Ask how the final inspection will be arranged.
- Clarify where keys, remotes, permits and fobs must be returned.
- Keep written records in one move-out folder.
2. Compare the property with the entry condition report
Your entry condition report is an important record of the property's original condition. Walk through the home room by room, compare the report and photographs, and separate normal wear from damage or maintenance concerns that may need discussion.
Consumer Affairs Victoria states that renters must leave a property reasonably clean and in the same condition as when they moved in, allowing for fair wear and tear. The exact situation can vary, so read the current official guidance rather than relying on a generic social-media checklist.
3. Schedule the move before the final clean
Where possible, move most belongings out before completing the final clean. Furniture and boxes can hide dust, marks or small items, and movers walking through a freshly cleaned home may create extra work.
| Stage | Recommended order |
|---|---|
| Before moving day | Declutter, pack, dismantle suitable furniture and confirm truck access. |
| Moving day | Remove belongings, check cupboards and complete an empty-property walkthrough. |
| After loading | Finish cleaning, photograph rooms, record meters and gather access items. |
| Handover | Return keys as agreed and keep written or photographic proof. |
For full-home relocations, see our Melbourne removalists service. For smaller rental moves, truck hire with movers may help combine labour and transport in one booking.
4. Use a room-by-room cleaning checklist
Consumer Affairs Victoria explains that a professional clean cannot simply be required in every situation; specific conditions apply. Check the current rules and your agreement. Whether you clean personally or use a service, focus on a reasonable, documented result.
Kitchen
Clean benches, sink, cupboards, splashbacks, oven and accessible appliance spaces. Remove all food and rubbish.
Bathroom and laundry
Clean surfaces, fixtures, mirrors, drains and ventilation covers; remove personal items.
Bedrooms and living
Vacuum or clean floors, wipe accessible surfaces, empty wardrobes and check walls and windows.
Outdoor and storage
Empty balconies, garages, sheds and bins; remove moving debris and return included items.
5. Create a clear handover record
- Take wide photos of each empty room and closer photos of fixtures or existing marks.
- Record electricity, gas and water meter readings where applicable.
- Photograph the cleaned oven, bathrooms, floors, storage areas and outdoor spaces.
- List every key, garage remote, permit and access fob returned.
- Save cleaning receipts if they are relevant to your agreement or discussions.
- Keep emails, notices and handover confirmation together.
Photographs are most useful when they are dated, well lit and organised by room. A slow video walkthrough can provide additional context, but it should not replace clear still images.
6. Final utilities and address tasks
Arrange utility disconnection or transfer for the correct date and keep access available if a final meter reading or service visit is needed. Update insurers, banks, government services, employers, schools and subscriptions. Consider Australia Post mail redirection while organisations update their records.
Do not cancel a service so early that you lose lighting, refrigeration or internet needed during packing and cleaning. Confirm the start date at the new address as well as the end date at the old property.
7. Return keys and complete the final check
- Check every storage space. Look in wardrobes, drawers, cupboards, sheds, balconies and behind doors.
- Remove all rubbish and moving materials. Do not leave unwanted items unless there is written agreement.
- Switch off or leave services as instructed. Follow the agreed handover process.
- Return all access items. Include copies, remotes, permits and fobs.
- Keep proof. Save a receipt, email or photograph showing when and where items were returned.
If the moving date is close, our 48-hour moving checklist prioritises the tasks that matter most.
Written and reviewed by Hafiza Movers and Packers Melbourne
This guide reflects the practical questions our booking and moving team uses to plan local house, apartment, furniture and office moves: inventory, access, parking, timing, fragile items and the right truck.
Read customer feedback · See recent Melbourne moves on Instagram
Useful sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
How clean must a Victorian rental be when I move out?
Consumer Affairs Victoria says it should be left reasonably clean and in the same condition as when you moved in, allowing for fair wear and tear. Review the current official guidance and your circumstances.
Is professional end-of-lease cleaning always compulsory?
No. Consumer Affairs Victoria says a rental provider cannot require professional cleaning in every situation; specific conditions apply. Check the current rules and your rental agreement.
When should I take final condition photos?
Take them after furniture, boxes and rubbish have been removed and the final cleaning is complete.
What should I return with the keys?
Return every item supplied for access, which may include keys, copies, garage remotes, building fobs and parking permits.
Should I clean before or after the movers?
Complete general cleaning beforehand if helpful, but schedule the final detailed clean after belongings have been removed so hidden areas are accessible.
