By Moving out of a rented space brings with it the responsibility of handing over the property in the best possible condition. End-of-lease cleaning is not just a courtesy to the next occupants, but often a requirement to ensure the return of your security deposit. This comprehensive checklist will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
General Cleaning Tips
Begin by gathering all the necessary cleaning supplies – this includes cleaning agents, cloths, brushes, and vacuum cleaners. Plan your cleaning session well in advance to avoid a last-minute rush, which can lead to missed spots or inadequate cleaning. It’s often helpful to clean room by room, ensuring each space is completed before moving to the next. Consider the option of hiring professional cleaners, especially for challenging tasks like deep carpet cleaning or window washing.
Kitchen Cleaning
The kitchen is one of the most used spaces and requires thorough attention. Start by cleaning all surfaces, including countertops, backsplashes, and cabinets. Appliances like the oven, refrigerator, and microwave should be cleaned inside and out. Don’t forget to scrub the sink, taps, and clear out and wipe down the pantry and cupboards.
Bathroom Cleaning
In the bathroom cleaning, focus on disinfecting and scrubbing the toilet, bathtub, and shower. Clean all the surfaces, including the sink, countertops, and mirrors. Pay special attention to tile grout and any mold that might have accumulated. Ensure that cabinets are emptied, cleaned, and that the floor is mopped.
Bedrooms and Living Areas
Dust and wipe all surfaces in bedrooms and living areas, including window sills, baseboards, and any furniture that belongs to the property. Vacuum carpets thoroughly and mop any hard floors. Check for cobwebs in corners and clean all mirrors and windows.
Walls, Doors, and Windows
Inspect all walls for scuffs or marks and clean them gently. Doors, including their handles and frames, should be wiped down, as well as windowpanes and tracks. If there are any holes from nails or screws, consider filling them and touching up the paint.
Outdoor Areas
If your lease includes outdoor areas like balconies, patios, gardens, or garages, these should be tidied and cleaned as well. Remove any personal belongings, sweep the areas, and tidy up any garden spaces by pulling weeds or raking leaves.
Final Touches
Before concluding, replace any burnt-out light bulbs and ensure that all your personal belongings are removed from the property. It’s advisable to take photos of the cleaned property for your records. Check for any damages that occurred during your tenancy and consider repairing them to avoid deductions from your security deposit.
Cleaning Appliances and Fixtures
When cleaning appliances, ensure that you check and clean less obvious places like the filters in dishwashers, the washing machine, and the dryer. The refrigerator coils, the oven’s interior, and the range hood filters should also be thoroughly cleaned. For fixtures, ensure that all faucets are descaled and polished, and that light fixtures are dust-free and shining. It’s these small details that often catch the eye of a meticulous inspector.
Attention to Carpets and Upholstery
If your rental has carpets, they may require more than just vacuuming, especially if there are stains or ground-in dirt. Consider renting a steam cleaner or hiring a professional carpet cleaning service to ensure they are left in the best possible condition. For furnished properties, upholstery should be vacuumed and spot-cleaned. Remember, the cleaner these items are, the more appealing they are to the next occupants and to the landlord.
Final Inspection and Documentation
Once you’ve completed the cleaning, conduct a final walk-through of the property. This is your chance to double-check each room, ensuring nothing has been missed. It’s also a good idea to compare the state of the property to the condition report from when you moved in. Documenting the final condition with photographs provides a record that can be useful in case of disputes over the security deposit.
Professional Cleaning Services
In some cases, the lease agreement might require professional cleaning, or you might decide that hiring professionals is the best option for you. Professional cleaners can handle tough jobs more efficiently and they understand the standards expected by landlords and property managers. If you go this route, ensure you keep receipts as proof of professional cleaning, as this can sometimes be a requirement for getting your full deposit back.
Conclusion
End-of-lease cleaning, though time-consuming, is a crucial part of moving out. This detailed checklist will help you ensure that every corner of your rental property is taken care of, increasing the likelihood of receiving your full security deposit back and leaving on good terms with your landlord or property manager.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s included in end of tenancy cleaning?
End of tenancy cleaning typically includes a thorough cleaning of the entire rental property. This usually covers deep cleaning of the kitchen (including appliances like ovens and refrigerators), bathrooms, bedrooms, living areas, and any outdoor spaces. It also involves cleaning floors, carpets, windows, walls, and fixtures. The goal is to return the property to a condition similar to when the tenancy began.
Does end of lease clean include windows?
Yes, end of lease cleaning generally includes cleaning the windows. This means washing the windowpanes, cleaning the frames, and often the tracks and sills. The extent of window cleaning (e.g., inside only or both inside and outside) can vary depending on the terms of the lease and accessibility.
Do end of tenancy cleaners clean walls?
Yes, end of tenancy cleaners often clean walls. This usually involves wiping down the walls to remove dust, dirt, and any marks or scuffs. In some cases, more extensive cleaning or even repainting may be necessary, especially if there are significant marks or damages.
How do you clean walls at the end of a lease?
To clean walls at the end of a lease, start by dusting them to remove loose dirt. Then, using a gentle cleaning solution (like diluted dish soap) and a soft sponge or cloth, gently wipe the walls. Be cautious with painted walls to avoid damaging the paint. For tougher marks, use a melamine foam eraser. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first.
Do I need to clean walls before moving out?
Yes, it’s generally expected to clean walls before moving out, especially to remove any dust, cobwebs, and light marks. However, normal wear and tear are typically acceptable. Any significant damage or stains might require more extensive cleaning or repair.
Is end of tenancy cleaning worth it?
End of tenancy cleaning is often worth it, as it can play a crucial role in getting your full security deposit back. A clean and well-maintained property is more likely to satisfy landlords and property managers, and it adheres to most rental agreements’ standards.
Do bond cleaners wash walls?
Yes, bond cleaners usually wash walls as part of their cleaning process. They typically address common marks and scuffs to ensure that the walls are clean and presentable for the next tenants.
Why are bond cleans so expensive?
Bond cleans can be expensive due to the level of detail and thoroughness required. They often include deep cleaning of the entire property, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive. Additionally, professional cleaners use specialized equipment and cleaning products, which add to the cost.
How often should you wash your walls down?
Walls should generally be washed down every 12 to 24 months, depending on factors like the number of occupants, presence of children or pets, and lifestyle habits (such as smoking inside). High-traffic areas or rooms exposed to more dirt, like kitchens and bathrooms, might need more frequent cleaning.
What is the best cleaner for wet walls?
For wet walls, such as in bathrooms or kitchens, a mildew-resistant cleaner is best. Look for non-abrasive cleaners specifically designed for bathrooms, which can handle moisture and soap scum effectively. Natural options like a vinegar and water solution can also be effective, especially for mild mold and mildew.
