When it is time to move out of a rented property, one important task that can significantly impact your deposit is the end-of-tenancy cleaning. Many of us might overlook thinking that by removing all our stuff from the unit, we are good to hand over the rented apart back to the landlord only to have some of the amount deducted to pay for cleaning.
Most landlords expect their tenant to do some form of thorough cleaning before returning the unit to them. A thorough and systematic approach becomes essential to ensure you leave the property in pristine condition.
To help you stay organized and maximize your chances of a smooth move-out, we hereby present the ultimate end-of-tenancy cleaning checklist.
Cleaning Checklist:
Our cleaning checklist is from our experience as a tenant when we were moving out. You can use this as a guide and include others that we might have missed out.
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Kitchen:
- Clean all kitchen surfaces, including countertops, cabinets, and backsplash.
- Degrease and clean the oven, stove and hood.
- Empty, defrost, and clean the refrigerator and freezer both inside and out.
- Clean the microwave, removing any food residues or stains.
- Scrub the sink and faucet, and ensure drains are clear of debris.
- Wipe down all kitchen appliances that came with the property checklist.
- Sweep and mop the kitchen floor, paying attention to corners and baseboards.
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Bathroom:
- Scrub the bathtub, shower, and tiles, removing any soap scum or limescale.
- Clean the toilet, including the bowl, seat, and tank.
- Polish bathroom fixtures, such as taps, showerheads, and towel racks.
- Remove any visible mold and dirt on the walls.
- Clean the bathroom sink and countertop, ensuring they are free of stains or residue.
- Wipe down mirrors and glass surfaces.
- Scrub the kitchen floor to thoroughly cleaning.
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Living Areas:
- Dust and wipe down all surfaces, including shelves, tables, and cabinets.
- Vacuum upholstery, including sofas, chairs, and curtains.
- Spot clean any stains on carpets or rugs, and vacuum thoroughly.
- Dust and polish electronics, such as televisions and sound systems.
- Clean light switches and door handles.
- Clean windows, both inside and outside, including roller tracks.
- Remove cobwebs from corners and ceilings.
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Bedrooms:
- Dust and wipe down furniture, including wardrobes, dressers, and bedside tables.
- Vacuum mattresses and flip if required.
- Launder or dry clean curtains, and dust blinds.
- Clean mirrors and glass surfaces.
- Vacuum or sweep the bedroom floor, and mop.
- Empty and clean out closets, removing any personal belongings.
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Additional Areas:
- Clean and organize any storage spaces, such as attics, basements, or garages.
- Tidy up outdoor areas, including patios, balconies, or gardens.
- Dispose of any rubbish or unwanted items responsibly.
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Final Touches:
- Conduct a thorough inspection of the property to ensure nothing has been overlooked.
- Take photographs of the cleaned areas as evidence of the property’s condition.
- Repair any damages, such as nail holes or wall dents.
- Return any keys or access cards to the landlord or agency.
Conclusion
A well-executed end-of-tenancy cleaning is vital for a smooth move-out process and to secure the return of your deposit. By following this ultimate end-of-tenancy cleaning checklist, you can ensure that every area of the property is now thoroughly cleaned. Remember to refer to your tenancy agreement for specific cleaning requirements and, if needed, consider hiring professional cleaners to give yourself peace of mind.
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