Moving out triggers a mix of excitement and stress, especially if your home looks a bit worse for wear. Tidying up is no small feat, whether you are hoping to reclaim your entire deposit or you are an owner prepping for new tenants.
A spotless home does not only facilitate property handovers. It also sets the stage for fresh beginnings.
How do you tackle such an extensive task? The secret is to create a comprehensive checklist.
This detailed guide covers all the items you must add to your list to ensure that the place is ready for its next residents.
Why You Should Spruce up Your Home Before Leaving
It takes more than a quick tidy-up to make a place immaculate at the conclusion of a lease. To receive your full deposit back, you must meet the conditions specified in your contract. Otherwise, you could face unwanted deductions.
Furthermore, maintaining a clean property helps landlords create a welcoming atmosphere. It leaves a positive first impression that facilitates the transition for new tenants.
That is why it would be wise to arrange for end of tenancy cleaning services if you are not up for the task.
Spruce up Living Spaces and Common Areas
Communal spaces, like dining areas or hallways, should take priority, as they tend to gather dust and filth rapidly.
Start with the obvious. Vacuum all the carpets and rugs and dust off any upholstered furniture.
The floors should also be well-polished, whether they are tiled or made of hardwood. Remember to go over lamp fixtures, skirting boards, and ceiling nooks where dust bunnies like to hide.
Additionally, wipe the glass panes inside and out, and then polish the window sills.
Blinds and curtains need a thorough wash, too. If your landlord is particularly picky, they will expect you to tackle the tops of doors, along with any air vents, as well.
Hidden dirt can lurk in these shared areas. So, make sure you go over them carefully before the owner inspects them.
Scrub Down The Kitchen
Kitchens are notorious for gathering grease, crumbs, spills, and all kinds of mysterious grime. Nonetheless, a systematic approach will help you tackle yours efficiently.
Start with the appliances. They are often scrutinised closely during inspections.
Wipe the oven inside and out. If you have been putting this off, brace yourself for some serious scrubbing.
Do not forget the hob and extractor fan. They usually require a powerful degreaser.
Also, be sure to defrost the freezer and clear out the refrigerator. Check the microwave or dishwasher for crumbs, too, to cover all the essential devices.
Next, wipe all the shelves, countertops, and cabinets, then wrap up by scrubbing the floor to remove all traces of spills and stains.
Freshen up the Bedrooms
Many renters think a quick hoovering will suffice for bedrooms. However, for end of tenancy and move-in cleaning, precision makes all the difference.
Start by sorting out your personal belongings, including those that have rolled under the bed or into the back of a closet.
If your floors are hardwood, sweep them well or vacuum the carpets thoroughly afterwards. Additionally, polish all surfaces, including dressers and nightstands, ensuring that no fingerprints or dust are left behind.
Tidy up the spaces inside cupboards and wardrobes as well. Then, dust off the curtains and blinds. If needed, pop them in the wash to remove stubborn stains.
Make sure windows and mirrors are sparkling, too, and do not forget the ceiling fans and light fixtures.
Finally, check the mattress. Vacuum it to remove the hidden dust, then look for any stains and treat them immediately.
Once you are finished, the room should feel like a blank slate, ready for the next renter to move in.
Make the Bathroom Sparkle and Shine
This task ranks high in both importance and the time it takes. When dealing with numerous fixtures, it can be tricky to determine where to begin.
It is advisable to start with the toilet. Using a silicone brush, thoroughly scrub the bowl. Then, wipe the outside meticulously with a microfibre towel.
Moreover, the sink, bathtub, and shower stall all need to be free of limescale and soap scum. Be extra careful with the taps, drains, and showerhead.
If your bathroom features tiles, mop them thoroughly, focusing particularly on the grout lines. Those hidden crevices often harbour the most dirt. A little attention here can make a noticeable difference.
Also, remember to go over any glass surfaces and make sure the mirrors and shower screen are streak-free.
Dust frequently accumulates on smaller components as well, so do not overlook the light switches, toilet roll holders, and towel racks.
The tiles also require special attention, particularly around the toilet, where dirt can accumulate, so use a small brush to reach those nooks.
Finishing Touches on Floors and Carpets
A little more work on the flooring can have a huge impact on the overall appearance of the place. Consider hiring a specialist or renting a steam cleaner if your rugs show extensive wear.
If you think you can handle them yourself, make sure you vacuum them thoroughly and treat any stains, especially in high-traffic areas.
Once again, mop hardwood or tile floors until they gleam.
If the proprietor has provided specific recommendations or guidelines, follow them closely. This attention to detail will increase your chances of getting your deposit back in full.
Final Check and Professional Cleaning
After you are done, take a moment to review your work. Walk through the property as if you were a new tenant. Examine each room to guarantee that everything meets your landlord’s standards.
Look for anything you could have missed, ensuring that the windows are spotless and that there is no dust lurking on top of the cupboards.
If you are short on time, you can always use the services of a specialised cleaner. These experts know what letting agents and landlords want to see during the final walk-through. With their know-how and pro tools, you are more likely to get your whole deposit back.
Conclusion
Even though it seems intimidating, end of tenancy cleaning is doable with the correct strategy.
You just need to go over every room carefully and focus on the important details. So, take a deep breath, put your rubber gloves on, and start scrubbing.
If you do not have the time or energy to tackle this task yourself, a trustworthy cleaner can save the day.
