Don’t panic! We understand that there are many things to do, including the end-of tenancy cleaning. A well-planned and detailed cleaning checklist will help you to ensure a smooth transfer and maximize your chances of receiving your deposit.
This comprehensive guide was created by our end-of tenancy cleaners in London. It includes all the information you need about cleaning at the end of a tenancy, including essential tasks and helpful tips. Our list is perfect for any renter, whether it’s a newbie or an experienced one. It will help you to tackle the cleaning and make your rental spotless.
Understanding the importance of a thorough clean
When ending a lease, deposit disputes are common. Data from Deposit Protection Service shows that cleanliness is a major cause of disputes between landlords and tenants, and can lead to deposit deductions. As you can see It’s best to leave your property in perfect condition.
You can only be sure you don’t miss any spots by following a detailed cleaning checklist, such as the one below. The rental property in good condition shows that you have taken care of it and met your tenancy contract. This can help ensure a smooth handover, and the return of your deposit.
Plan Your End-of-Tenancy Cleaning
A well-planned strategy is essential to the success of a good end-of-tenancy clean. What you should do is:
1. Time and organisation:
- Schedule your Cleaning: Clean the property as soon as you can after the final inventory. This will reduce the likelihood of dust or grime building up after cleaning.
- Professional or DIY? Hire professional end-of -tenancy cleaners or do the cleaning yourself.
- Do-it-yourself: Take into account the amount of time, energy and resources required for a thorough cleaning. If you are short on time, or have a large home, hiring professionals may be your best option.
- Professional Move Out Cleaners: When you decide to hire professionals, make sure they have experienced End-of-Tenancy cleaners on their team. Make sure they provide a detailed checklist for end-of-tenancy clean-up that is in line with your lease agreement and the expectations of your landlord.
2. Clean your house:
Gathering all the necessary cleaning products is important if you decide to do your own move-out cleaning. This will ensure that the cleaning process runs smoothly and without interruptions.
- Stock up on cleaning agents for different surfaces, such as floors, windows and kitchens.
- Collect tools such as sponges, cloths and buckets.
- Consider purchasing specialised cleaning equipment, such as steam cleaners or upholstery and carpet cleaners. You can also purchase window cleaning equipment to clean high windows.
3. Document the Process:
- Before cleaning the property, take pictures to document its condition. Pay attention to any signs of wear.
- Keep receipts and a copy your end-of-tenancy cleaning list.
Clean up after a Tenancy (Room-by-Room)
Windows:
- Keep your windows clean to maintain the sparkle. Both the inside and outside windows should be cleaned.
- Use a glass polish and microfiber cloth for windows that are easily accessible to get a shine without streaks.
- If the windows on the outside are not within reach, consider hiring a professional cleaning service.
Kitchen:
- All cupboards and drawers should be cleaned inside and out.
- Clean the floor of your kitchen thoroughly with a powerful, greasy-cutting cleaner. Eco-friendly products are better for everyday use. However, for cleaning at the end of a tenancy you may need a stronger formula.
- Remove non-integrated appliances such as ovens, refrigerators and dishwashers. Remove dust and grime from the floor behind and beneath the appliances.
Appliances:
- Cleaning all appliances, inside and outside. Pay attention to the accumulation of grease and grime.
- Use our guide to clean your fridge. Keep the door open in order to prevent mold growth.
- Apply oven cleaner to greasy ovens and let it work for the time recommended. Wipe down the surfaces with a damp, clean cloth after the grease has softened. Here is a complete guide to cleaning dirty ovens.
- Do not forget to clean your microwave, kettle, and toaster, removing any crumbs or stains.
Bathroom:
- Prepare yourself for a scrub session by preparing a powerful cleaning agent. Remove soap scum and hard water stains from sinks, bathtubs, toilets and showers. Mirrors can be sparkled up with a glass cleaning solution and microfiber cloth.
- Cleaning the shelves, cabinets, and tiles in your bathroom. Use a disinfectant to scrub the floor.
- Unclog drains and plug holes which have become sluggish with time.
- Remove limescale from faucets, showerheads and other areas.
Blinds & Curtains:
- Vacuum your curtains to remove dust, allergens and other particles. Dust curtain rods thoroughly.
- You can wash your curtains in the washing machine. Dry cleaning can be used, particularly for delicate fabrics.
- Dusting fabric blinds with a microfiber cloth is a good way to do it. A damp cloth may be required for tougher grime. Venetian blinds need a more thorough approach. Dust each slat with a microfiber towel, and then wipe it down with a wet cloth to remove any dust or grime.
- Blinds can be damaged by missing pieces or cigarette burns. Replace them before the final inspection to show your commitment to leave the property in perfect condition.
Carpets & Rugs:
- Vacuum carpets and rugs thoroughly to remove dust and embedded dirt.
- You can use a carpet spot cleaning product to remove any spills or stains that may have occurred in your rental. Don’t forget the directions on the product label and to test it in a hidden place first.
- Steam cleaning is a great option for carpet deep cleaning. Steam cleaning removes dirt, odours and allergens from carpets. Rent a steam cleaning machine or hire a carpet cleaning company if you do not own one.
Ceilings and Walls:
- Remove marks, scuffs and smudges on walls and ceilings with a dampened cloth or magic eraser.
- Consider using matching paint to touch up any areas that have more severe damage such as holes and peeling paint.
Garden and Outdoor Areas:
- Mow your lawn neatly to a uniform height.
- Remove all weeds and weedy plants from flowerbeds, borders and pathways.
- Clean and sweep patio furniture.
- Remove all unnecessary items and organize the shed.
Tips for a Successful End of Tenancy Clean:
- Donate or sell unwanted items before cleaning to ease the cleaning and relocation process.
- Don’t forget to clean under and behind furniture as well as skirting board and door frames.
- Check areas that are humid, like bathrooms and kitchens. Look for mildew or mould. These areas should be cleaned thoroughly using a solution that kills mould.
- Open the blinds and curtains to let natural light in. This will allow you to see more clearly the areas which need cleaning.
- Ventilation is important during and after cleaning – especially when you are using chemicals that can be harsh.
- Consider hiring a professional cleaning service if you are short on time or overwhelmed with the job. Professional cleaners are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to provide a thorough clean.
After Cleaning
- Take pictures of every room to document the cleanliness. These images can be used as proof in the event of a dispute with your landlord.
- Attend the inspection and be available to answer questions from the inspector, the landlord or the letting agent.
You can increase your chances to get your deposit back by following these above tips.
Feeling overwhelmed? We can help!
Do not let moving out stress you out! Contact our end-of tenancy cleaning service today if you’re short on time or would like to concentrate on other tasks. Our move out cleaning services in Auckland are experienced and will ensure that your property is left spotless. This will give you peace of mind, as well as maximizing your deposit refund.