In the busy city life, where things are always on the go, one thing remains constant: change. Every year, a tide of people leave their old homes to seek new opportunities. Whether it’s for work, school, or just a change of scenery, moving homes has become an ever-present reality in our society.
But in the excitement of moving to a new place, there’s an important task you can’t forget: end of lease cleaning. This means making sure the place is in pristine condition before you hand over the keys. It’s not just about following the contract rules; it’s about showing respect for the place you live in.
While many homeowners hire reliable exit cleaning services in Geelong, you can always do it yourself. Here, we’ll break down the steps of end of lease cleaning in simple terms. We’ll cover everything from tidying up to scrubbing floors, so you can leave your old place looking spotless.
Go Through the Rental Agreement
Before starting your end of lease cleaning, it’s important to review your residential tenancy agreement. This legally binding document, signed by both you and your landlord upon the commencement of your tenancy, outlines the expectations your landlord has for the property.
In addition to your regular responsibilities as a tenant, the agreement specifies the standard of cleanliness required to get the full bond back. The bond amount is generally equivalent to one month’s rent.
Pro Tip:
Refer to your condition report, which also shows the property condition at the beginning of your tenancy. This will guide you in restoring the cleanliness to its original level.
Make a Plan in Advance
Once you know the importance of end of lease cleaning and the requirements mentioned in the rental agreement, start by planning. Go room by room, noting areas that need extra attention. Create a schedule with time limits for each task to avoid stress.
This organised approach ensures you tackle all cleaning efficiently, leaving your home spotless without feeling overwhelmed.
Pro Tip:
Before starting the end of lease clean process, take photos or videos of the property’s condition. This documentation is evidence of the cleanliness and condition of the property before you begin cleaning. It can help you avoid disputes with the landlord over damages or cleanliness standards.
Gather Essential Tools
For a stress-free and successful end of lease cleaning, it’s important to assemble all the necessary cleaning tools and supplies. Based on your cleaning schedule, you can determine what items you require and what quantities. Here’s a checklist of supplies you might need:
- All-purpose cleaner
- Glass cleaner
- Bathroom cleaner
- Oven cleaner
- Carpet cleaner
- Broom and dustpan
- Vacuum with HEPA filter
- Mop and bucket
- Microfiber cloths
- Scrub brushes
- Gloves
- Trash bags
- Glass spray bottles
- Squeegee
Pro Tip:
Utilise natural cleaning products such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon to not only effectively clean but also leave a fresh scent behind. This eco-friendly approach not only ensures a thorough cleaning but also promotes a healthier living environment for future tenants.
Start Cleaning the Kitchen
For a stress-free end-of-lease cleaning, prioritise the most difficult room first to improve productivity. Generally, the kitchen has the toughest cleaning tasks due to grease buildup, oil splatters, food debris, and grime. Here’s a systematic way to deep-clean your kitchen:
- Begin by scrubbing and wiping oil splatters off the backsplash area.
- Clean the tops of kitchen cupboards and shelves.
- Deep-clean stove tops, burner rings, and knobs.
- Address grease splatters on your oven and microwave.
- Thoroughly clean and disinfect your fridge and dishwasher.
- Clear any clogs from the sink and drains.
- Lastly, clean the range hood exhaust and filters.
Pro Tip:
For an extra touch, clean and polish stainless steel appliances with a microfiber cloth and specialised cleaner. This will not only remove fingerprints and smudges but also enhance the overall appearance of your kitchen, making it look more inviting and well-maintained for your end of lease inspection.
Address Germs and Infections in Your Bathroom
Now comes your bathroom, which can be a time-consuming area to clean. If each family member has their own bathroom, you must assign the cleaning responsibilities among them. This will make the cleaning faster and stress-free. To effectively clean your bathroom, follow these steps:
- Dust off the tops of bathroom shelves and doors.
- Thoroughly clean the exhaust fan to eliminate accumulated dirt.
- Deep-clean the toilet bowl and sink to eradicate bacteria.
- Use vinegar to remove soap scum from shower glass and walls.
- Eliminate streaks from mirrors and windows.
- Scrub bathroom tapware and towel rails.
Pro Tip:
Use a toothbrush or small brush to reach tight spots around fixtures and grout lines, so you can thoroughly clean areas that might not be reachable with regular cleaning tools.
Pay Attention to the Living Room and Bedrooms
After cleaning the two toughest rooms in your home, the rest will feel like a breeze. Here are some tips to effectively deep-clean your living room and bedrooms:
- Clear away cobwebs and insect debris.
- Thoroughly clean fans and air conditioner vents.
- Erase marks and stains from walls.
- Deep-clean mattresses and bedding.
- Wipe down doors, skirting boards, and light switches.
- Vacuum floors and carpets.
- Dust off window blinds.
- Scrub both interior and exterior windows.
Pro Tip:
Spruce up the upholstery with a fabric spray or a mix of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Lightly spray sofas, chairs, and curtains to get rid of smells and make them smell clean and inviting.
Don’t Forget the Outdoors
If your rental property has a balcony, patio, or garden, cleaning it is necessary. Consider these tips for different outdoor areas:
- Driveway: Remove oil stains from the driveway.
- Garage: Empty the space, clean oil marks, remove dirt and cobwebs, and wipe down the door.
- Patios: Thoroughly clean and hose down patio surfaces, remove cobwebs, and don’t overlook cleaning appliances.
- Pets: Clean up any animal mess and address any damage immediately.
- Pools & Spas: Remove debris from the water and filter. Adhere to any special conditions outlined in your tenancy agreement.
- Rubbish Bins: Wash and dry if applicable.
- Windows: Clear cobwebs and wash and dry windows.
- Yard: Mow the lawn, weed the garden, trim trees, and sweep the pavement.
Pro Tip:
When cleaning patios, driveways, or garage floors, use a pressure washer to effectively remove stubborn dirt, moss, and grime from surfaces. The high-pressure water stream can provide a deep clean, leaving your outdoor spaces looking refreshed and revitalised with minimal effort.
FAQs on End of Lease Cleaning
Why is end of lease cleaning important?
End of lease cleaning is important for getting your security deposit back. It ensures the property is in the same condition as when you moved in, meeting the landlord’s standards. This cleaning also enhances your reputation as a responsible tenant, facilitating a smooth transition for the next occupant.
How long does it usually take to complete an end of lease cleaning?
The duration of end of lease cleaning depends on various factors such as the size and condition of the property. Typically, it can take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours for a thorough cleaning of a standard-sized apartment. However, larger or more heavily soiled properties may require additional time for comprehensive cleaning.
Can I do the end of lease cleaning myself, or should I hire professionals?
While you can tackle end of lease cleaning yourself, hiring professionals often ensures better results. Experienced cleaners have the expertise and equipment to handle all aspects of the job efficiently. They know the specific areas that require attention and can ensure the property meets the landlord’s standards, increasing the chances of getting your deposit back.
How much does professional end of lease cleaning typically cost?
The cost of professional end of lease cleaning varies depending on factors like the size of the property and the level of cleaning required. On average, expect to pay between $200 to $300 for a standard one-bedroom apartment. Prices increase with larger properties or additional services like carpet cleaning. It’s advisable to obtain quotes from multiple cleaners for comparison.
How far in advance should I schedule my end of lease cleaning?
It’s best to schedule your end of lease cleaning as soon as you know your move-out date. Ideally, book a professional cleaner at least 1-2 weeks in advance to secure your preferred time slot. This allows ample time for thorough cleaning, avoiding any last-minute rush.
Wrapping Up
As you start a new chapter of life, don’t underestimate the importance of leaving your old home in pristine condition. End of lease cleaning is not just a contractual responsibility; it’s a reflection of respect and responsibility.
Whether you hire professional services or do it yourself, the goal remains the same: to leave behind a spotless space for the next occupants. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth transition and leave a lasting impression of care and consideration. Remember, the way you leave your old home sets the tone for your new beginnings.
If you are looking for reliable exit cleaning services in Geelong, trust OZ Cleaning Geelong to ensure the best results. With years of experience in the cleaning industry, we assure you that we will bring back that old charm of your property. Contact us today and increase your chances of getting a full bond back!
