Table of Contents
Why Clean Before Your Lease Ends?
It might seem unnecessary to clean before your lease ends, but there’s a compelling reason to do so. Remember the bond you paid when you first signed your lease? That bond agreement stipulated that any property damage could result in you not getting your deposit back. Ensuring the property is spotless and undamaged makes you more likely to get your bond money returned in full. By the end of your lease, the property should look as it did when you first moved in, maximizing your bond refund chances.
Preparing for the Big Clean
- Clear out personal belongings and furniture that didn’t come with the property.
- Dispose of leftover waste from moving, household trash, and unwanted items.
- Stock up on essential cleaning supplies.
- Schedule any required services like removalists, cleaning hires, or rubbish removal.
- Draft an end-of-lease cleaning checklist.
- Dress in clothes suitable for cleaning.
Essential Cleaning Supplies
- Mop and bucket
- Vacuum and broom
- Old rags, dishcloths, and possibly an old toothbrush
- Various cleaners: window, wood, fridge, household, oven, and dishwashing liquid
- Disinfectants: bleach, vinegar, methylated spirits
- Toilet, shower, and drain cleaners
- Duster, toilet brush, wall putty, and paint
- For outdoor areas: lawnmower, edger, and leaf blower
- A good music speaker for motivation!
The Ultimate End of Lease Cleaning Checklist:
Ensure you have the right supplies and a positive mindset before diving into this checklist.
- Entryway
- Wipe skirting boards, walls, and fixtures.
- Clean the front door.
- Sweep the external entrance.
- Kitchen
- Clean cabinets, drawers, oven, stove-top
- range hood, sink, and dishwasher.
- Wipe all surfaces with a damp cloth and sanitizer.
- Bathroom
- Descale shower screens and tiles.
- Clean exhaust fans, toilet, mirrors,and bathtub.
- Bedrooms, Dining, and Living Rooms
- Spot clean walls, fill nail holes, and paint over blemishes.
- Pure fans, vents, doors, wardrobes, and cabinets.
- Laundry and Appliances
- Clean sink, cupboards, washer, and dryer.
- Outdoors
- Mow and edge the lawn, sweep leaves, clear pathways, remove weeds, clean sliding doors, and remove pet waste.
- Overall Household
- Vacuum and mop floors.
- Clean windows, window sills, light fixtures, and switches.
- Remove all rubbish.
- Optional Tasks
- Hire a professional cleaning service.
- Steam clean carpets.
- Clean the garage and outdoor areas.
Efficient Cleaning Tips
- Clean Room by Room:Start at the front door and progress systematically.
- Dry Before Wet:Dust and tidy before mopping or using water.
- Final Walkthrough:After cleaning, tour the property to ensure everything is noticed.
Conclusion:
Ending a lease can be a daunting process, especially when it comes to ensuring the property is returned to its original condition. Cleaning thoroughly safeguards your bond refund and provides peace of mind as you transition to your next home. You can tackle the task efficiently with the proper preparation, essential supplies, and a comprehensive checklist. Remember, while the process might be overwhelming, the satisfaction of a job well done and the return of your bond money makes it all worthwhile.
FAQs:
Why is end-of-lease cleaning so important?
End-of-lease cleaning is crucial to ensure the return of your bond money. It’s also a tenant’s responsibility to leave the property in the same condition as when they moved in, barring normal wear and tear.
Can I hire professionals for end-of-lease cleaning?
Absolutely! While hiring professionals can be an added expense, they bring expertise and efficiency to the process, ensuring every nook and cranny is addressed. However, always ensure you choose a reputable service with positive reviews.
What if I don’t have the necessary cleaning supplies?
Most essential cleaning supplies can be purchased at local supermarkets or hardware stores. Consider borrowing from friends or neighbors if you’re on a tight budget. Some cleaning tasks can also be accomplished using household items like vinegar and baking soda.
How do I dispose of large items or excessive waste when moving out?
If regular bins aren’t sufficient, you can consider options like council clean-ups, hiring a rubbish removal service, or taking items to the dump yourself. Services like specializing in end-of-lease waste removal and can be a convenient solution.
