Moving out of a rental property can be stressful, especially with the looming concern of whether you will get your full deposit back. One of the most significant factors in securing your deposit is the cleanliness of the property you leave.
Landlords and property managers expect the place to be in the same condition as when you moved in, minus normal wear and tear. To help you achieve this and avoid any financial deductions, here’s an essential Geelong end of lease cleaning checklist that covers everything you need to know.
Living Room and Common Areas: Dust, Vacuum, and Clean
The living room and other common areas are high-traffic zones that accumulate dust and grime. Start by dusting all surfaces, including shelves, light fixtures, ceiling fans, and window sills.
Remember to clean behind and under furniture where dust bunnies hide. Vacuum carpets thoroughly, and if necessary, consider renting a carpet cleaner or hiring a professional service to remove any stubborn stains.
For hardwood or tile floors, sweep and mop meticulously, ensuring no dirt or debris is left behind. Pay special attention to baseboards and corners where dust tends to gather. If your living room has blinds or curtains, ensure they are free from dust and stains.
Depending on the fabric, blinds can be wiped down with a damp cloth, while curtains may need to be washed or dry-cleaned.
Kitchen: A Deep Clean from Top to Bottom
The kitchen is often the most challenging room to clean due to the buildup of grease and food residues. Begin by emptying all cabinets and drawers and wiping them inside and out with a suitable cleaner.
Remove any shelf liners and dispose of them if they are worn out. Clean all countertops and backsplashes, paying attention to grout lines, which can harbour mould and stains.
The appliances will need special attention. Clean the inside and outside of the refrigerator, removing all shelves and drawers to wash separately.
If accessible, remember to clean the coils and the drip pan. The oven and stove are other critical areas; use a heavy-duty oven cleaner to tackle baked-on grease and spills. Don’t neglect the range hood and filters, which can accumulate significant grease over time.
The sink and faucets should be scrubbed thoroughly to remove limescale or water stains. If you have a dishwasher, run it empty with a cup of vinegar to eliminate any lingering odours and buildup. Finally, sweep and mop the kitchen floor to ensure that it is spotless.
Bathrooms: Shine and Sanitise
Bathrooms require a detailed approach to ensure they are both clean and sanitised. Start by cleaning the bathtub, shower, and sink, using a descaling agent to remove any soap scum and hard water deposits.
Pay close attention to the grout lines and any mould or mildew that may have developed. Use a disinfectant cleaner inside the bowl and on the exterior surfaces of the toilet.
Mirror and glass surfaces should be wiped down with a streak-free glass cleaner. Clean all countertops and storage areas, ensuring they are free from residue or personal items. Don’t forget to clean the exhaust fan and light fixtures, which can gather dust and grime.
The floor should be swept and mopped, getting into all the corners and behind the toilet. If the bathroom has tile flooring, consider using a grout cleaner to ensure it looks pristine.
Bedrooms: Declutter and Detail
Bedrooms may seem easier to clean but still require a thorough approach. Start by removing all personal belongings and ensuring empty closets and storage areas.
Dust all surfaces, including furniture, light fixtures, and window sills. Pay special attention to the tops of doors and windows, which are often overlooked.
Vacuum the carpet or clean the flooring, making sure to get under the bed and other furniture. If there are any stains on the rug, address them with a suitable cleaner or consider professional cleaning. Wipe down mirrors and glass surfaces, ensuring they are free from smudges and fingerprints.
Remember to check for cobwebs in corners and around the ceiling. Ensure that blinds or curtains are clean and free from dust.
Windows and Doors: Crystal Clear Views
Clean windows can significantly improve a home’s appearance. Use a high-quality window cleaner and a microfiber cloth to clean all the windows inside and out. Ensure you clean the frames and sills as well, removing any dust or grime that has accumulated.
For doors, especially those with glass panels, clean them thoroughly, removing any fingerprints, smudges, or marks. Pay attention to the door handles and knobs, which can harbour germs and grime.
Walls and Baseboards: Fresh and Spotless
Inspect the walls for any scuff marks, fingerprints, or stains. Use a magic eraser or a mild detergent to clean these areas.
If there are nail holes or minor damages, fill them with spackle and match them with matching paint if available.
Baseboards often collect dust and dirt, so wipe them down with a damp cloth or cleaner. This detail can make a room look significantly cleaner and well-maintained.
Outdoor Areas: Tidy and Presentable
If your rental property includes outdoor spaces such as a balcony, patio, or yard, these areas need attention too. Sweep and mop balconies and terraces, removing any debris or dirt.
If you have a yard, ensure the lawn is mowed, leaves are raked, and any trash or personal items are removed.
Clean outdoor furniture and ensure any grills or outdoor cooking areas are scrubbed and free from grease. If there are any plants, ensure they are well-tended or removed if they are part of your personal belongings.
Final Touches: A Thorough Inspection
After completing all the cleaning tasks, do a final property walkthrough. Check each room to ensure nothing has been overlooked.
Pay attention to the details, such as light switches, outlet covers, and air vents, which can gather dust and grime over time.
Dispose of all trash and leave no personal items behind. If you rented the property furnished, ensure that all items are in their original locations as per the inventory list provided at the start of the tenancy.
Conclusion
End of lease cleaning is crucial in ensuring you receive your full deposit back. By following this comprehensive checklist, you can leave the property in excellent condition, meeting your landlord’s or property manager’s expectations.
A clean and well-maintained property secures your deposit and leaves a positive impression, which can benefit future rental references.
If you find the task overwhelming or time-consuming, consider hiring professional cleaners specialising in Geelong end of lease cleaning.
They can handle the job efficiently and effectively, giving you peace of mind during your move.OZ Cleaning Geelong offers top-notch end of lease cleaning services tailored to meet the highest standards. Contact us today to ensure your move is as smooth and stress-free as possible!
