End-of-tenancy cleaning is defined as the process of thoroughly cleaning a rental home before a tenant formally moves out. In order to ensure that the property is returned in its original condition, it requires a thorough deep clean.
End-of-tenancy cleaning aims to restore the home to its previous state so it can be rented to new residents as soon as the prior tenants move out. You can have your tenants do end-of-tenancy cleaning, perform the cleaning yourself or hire a reputable cleaning service.
Cleaning the rental yourself can be more affordable and ensure the property is cleaned to your standards. However, hiring experts or having your tenants clean the unit could save you time and be more efficient.
This article will cover what end-of-tenancy cleaning is, what it should include, and the benefits of hiring a specialized cleaner. We will also provide handy tips and a checklist for end-of-tenancy cleaning!
What is End of Tenancy Cleaning?
At its core, end-of-tenancy cleaning is a deep clean of an investment property that is conducted just before or after a tenant moves out of the rental. This kind of cleaning includes a deep cleaning of the interior and exterior of the property.
What are the Benefits of Hiring a Specialized End-of-Tenancy Cleaner?
Selecting a reputable cleaning service ensures a stress-free transition between tenants. Hiring a professional means that you won’t have to worry about any items on your checklist being missed.
In addition, if you have the property professionally cleaned, you're also less likely to have to make security deposit deductions for cleaning because you've hired a qualified team that should make sure the property is spotless.
This can prevent potential disputes between you and your prior tenants and will save you time and money in the long term.
To perform a thorough deep clean, professional cleaners bring the required tools and high-quality cleaning supplies to ensure your property is in peak condition before your new tenant arrives.
With the help of a professional, you can make sure there will be no disagreements between you and your tenants and that your property looks its best!
Can I do End-of-Tenancy Cleaning Myself?
You can handle end-of-tenancy cleaning yourself if you have the time, necessary tools, and appropriate cleaning supplies. The time it takes to clean your rental will depend on the size of the property, its current state, and whether it is furnished or unfurnished.
Additionally, if you're cleaning by yourself, it will take longer than if you have a team to help out. Both larger tasks, like washing walls and ceilings, and smaller ones, like mopping floors, require care.
While attending to the items on the list, you might accidentally overlook something, but prospective tenants are likely to take note of this.
When you’re cleaning the exterior of your property, be sure to clean up the yard, weed any flower beds, and remove any items left in your garage or shed.
End of Tenancy Cleaning Checklist
You can use this comprehensive end-of-tenancy cleaning checklist to ensure your property is rent-ready! We’ve organized this list based on the major areas in your home to make your end-of-tenancy cleaning more efficient.
Kitchen
- Clean large and small appliances
- Wipe down sinks, counters, cabinets, and other surfaces
Bathroom
- Scrub and disinfect sinks, bathtubs, showers, and toilets
- Remove scale from faucets and showerheads
- Unclog drains
- Clean mirrors
- Wipe down all counters, shelves, medicine cabinets, and other surfaces
Bedrooms and Common Areas
- Clean out closets
- Wipe down shelves and other surfaces
Whole House
- Clean light fixtures
- Wash walls and ceilings
- Wash windows
- Sweep, vacuum, and mop floors
- Clean baseboards, windowsills, and trim
- Wipe down doors and door handles
- Clean curtains and blinds
- Clean large appliances, including the washing machine and dryer
- Check and change furnace filters
- Replace any burnt-out lightbulbs
- Ensure smoke and carbon monoxide batteries are new
- Clean outlets and light switches
Exterior
- Wash windows
- Clean patios, decks, and porches
- Tidy the yard and landscape if necessary
- Clean out any garages or sheds
Bottom Line
In conclusion, end-of-tenancy cleaning is a necessary process that should be completed every time a tenant moves out of your rental property.
Landlords and property owners are responsible for ensuring that the property is thoroughly cleaned, habitable and safe prior to a new tenant moving in. You can achieve this by cleaning the property yourself or hiring a professional end-of-tenancy cleaning service.
Before you start any end-of-tenancy cleaning efforts, be sure to create a comprehensive cleaning checklist and go over it thoroughly if you hire any professional or seek help in cleaning your property.
If you have any questions or need assistance with end-of-tenancy cleaning, reach out to Limestone Country Properties today! Our expert team is ready to reduce your stress and achieve your investment goals by providing high-quality property management services.
