That time has come – you are moving out of your rental property. You are probably wondering how to handle end of tenancy cleaning. As a tenant, the burden lies on you to do more than vacuum and dust before leaving. It takes work! There is a detailed cleaning checklist that requires your time and energy.
Don’t worry! Your journey will end happily with this comprehensive end of tenancy cleaning guide.
Hassle-Free Tenancy End
Before moving out, you are responsible for deep cleaning the property. This task is a significant concern for you and your landlord. You need to know what end of tenancy cleaning includes. Thus, following a detailed checklist will pave the way for that much-desired deposit to return safely to your pocket.
We’re talking about a checklist that covers everything – from the gleaming kitchen appliances that have witnessed your culinary masterpieces to the sofa that endured your Netflix marathons. Even those windows that have seen the seasons change from your vantage point – they are on the list, too.
Prepare yourself – we will break down this checklist and ensure you are on the same page as your landlord. It’s like a final handshake with your living space, guaranteeing you part on the most satisfactory terms possible.
Successful Cleaning Plan
The cleaning requirements of each rental property are different, and you should trust various approaches to this task. You should create a cleaning strategy based on your property’s needs. Consider factors such as the size of the space and the time available before inspection. You should sort the tasks based on their importance, making cleaning more efficient and thorough. Ensure that you have all the cleaning supplies you need. You will need detergents suitable for different surfaces for a successful end of tenancy.
Cleaning Priorities at the End of a Tenancy
Leaving a property requires more than routine cleaning – it includes a deep cleaning of most areas. Below, we’ll highlight these critical areas. We also provide insights and tips to guarantee seamless relocation and total deposit return.
Kitchen
Your landlord or inventory clerk will pay close attention to details in the kitchen. Before moving out, you should clean the following:
- Clean and polish all kitchen countertops;
- You should clean inside all kitchen cabinets, drawers and shelving;
- Get rid of food leftovers, carrier bags, etc.;
- You should scrub the sink and tap to remove the limescale.
Clean the kitchen tiles – remove grease and dirt.
- Wipe off the oven inside and out. Don’t forget to clean between the oven glass as well;
- Clean extractors, hobs, gas rings and knobs;
- Defrost the freezer before cleaning. Brush the fridge with suitable detergent.
- You should clean the dishwasher and other appliances in the kitchen.
Bathroom
The bathroom is a common area with limescale and mould. You should:
- Remove mould and limescale from bathtubs, showers, tiles, and sinks;
- Dust the ceiling, walls, and furniture;
- Clean the glass shower screens and doors;
- Sanitise the toilet seat;
- Wipe down all doors, fittings, and hinges with a damp cloth;
- Dispose of old shampoo and soap products;
- Polish mirrors and glass surfaces – use a streak-free glass cleaner for an immaculate finish.
- Mop bathroom floors to remove stains and dirt.
Bedroom
Start with the bedroom to make quick progress and prepare for the kitchen and bathroom, requiring more elbow grease. This space requires close attention. As part of the end of tenancy cleaning checklist, you need to:
- Dust off the ceiling and corners;
- Wipe down cupboards and wardrobes inside and out;
- Clean the tops of doors by wiping off dust and dirt;
- Polish all surfaces, including the skirting;
- Wipe dirt off curtain rails;
- Vacuum and dust curtains and blinds;
- Clean and polish mirrors
- Wipe off dust from decorations and skirting boards;
- Remove the dust from all light fixtures and lampshades;
- Clean and polish switches;
- Remove/repaint stains on walls;
- Clean the power sockets carefully;
- Vacuum all mattresses thoroughly;
- Mop laminate and hardwood floors;
Hallways and Stairs
Often underestimated, these zones require your full attention:
- Remove scuffs and marks from walls and baseboards. Gently scrub walls and baseboards to get rid of any unsightly blemishes.
- Dust and clean wooden and upholstered stairs thoroughly. Use a vacuum cleaner attachment to clean area rug and dusty wooden stairs.
- Make sure shared hallways have adequate lighting. You should replace burned-out light bulbs.
Closets and Storage Spaces
Properties frequently feature limited storage, which requires effective use of space. You should:
- Declutter and organise storage areas. Discard or dispose of items no longer required, and arrange shelves and storage spaces for a tidy appearance.
- Empty shelves or cabinets, dust them, and wipe down interior surfaces.
- Vacuum or mop floors in storage spaces.
Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor areas may demand particular attention:
- Sweep and clean balconies, patios, and garden areas.
- Clear debris, sweep surfaces, and clean outdoor furniture if required.
- Prune overgrown plants and shrubs. Trim and tidy outdoor plants to enhance the overall aesthetic.
- Address weather-related challenges, such as moss on pathways.
Get Ready for the Inspection
Knowing what to expect during the final inspection is crucial. You should prepare yourself in advance:
- Review your checklist to guarantee that every task aligns with the cleaning standards.
- Address any issues promptly if they arise during the inspection. If the inspector identifies any areas requiring further attention, be primed to rectify them immediately.
- Keep a record of the property’s condition for your reference. Take photos or notes to provide evidence in case of an argument.
The detailed checklist provided is your key to getting back your full deposit. You should carry out your cleaning tasks with attention to detail, responsibility, and a commitment to leave your rental property immaculate. Armed with this checklist, you’re ready for a seamless relocation to your new home, deposit securely in your grasp.
Takeaways
- Thoroughly cleaning the property is essential. Moving out is highly detailed, and there are no steps you should skip. You want your deposit back, right?
- You should start early. Having more time to clean will make the task less stressful.
- You should take pictures of the property after you finish the cleaning.
- Hire professional cleaners to help. An end of tenancy cleaning service covers all areas on your checklist.
