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Moving out of a rented property can be stressful for landlords and tenants. One of the most important tasks during this process is end-of-tenancy cleaning. This cleaning is crucial for ensuring that the rental unit is in good condition and that tenants can return their deposit.
This blog will discuss the importance of end-of-tenancy cleaning and what is typically included in this type of cleaning. Whether you're a landlord or a tenant, this guide will provide valuable information to help make the end of the tenancy process as smooth as possible.
What is End of Tenancy Cleaning?
End-of-tenancy cleaning is a comprehensive cleaning service performed before a tenant vacates a rental property. This cleaning aims to return the property to its original condition so it can be properly inspected and prepared for new tenants.
This cleaning typically includes deep cleaning bathrooms and kitchens, vacuuming and mopping all floors, dusting, and wiping down surfaces. The goal is to leave the property spotless and free from dirt, grime, or stains. This can be done by the tenants themselves or by hiring professional cleaning services.
Why Do I Need to Carry Out an End of Tenancy Clean?
As a tenant, carrying out an end-of-tenancy clean is important because it is typically a requirement in the tenancy agreement. This means that tenants are obligated to leave the property in a clean condition upon vacating.
Additionally, a thorough end-of-tenancy cleaning can help ensure the tenant receives their full security deposit back. Property owners usually carry out a final inspection before the handover of the deposit. If the property is not cleaned up to the standard, the landlord has the right to deduct a certain amount from the deposit to cover the cost of cleaning.
Can a Landlord Charge a Tenant For End of Tenancy Cleaning?
It depends on the lease agreement. Some landlords may require tenants to pay for professional end-of-tenancy cleaning as a lease condition, while others may include it as part of their standard move-out process.
If it is not specified in the lease agreement, a landlord cannot charge a tenant for end-of-tenancy cleaning unless they can prove that the tenant caused damages beyond normal wear and tear.
An end-of-tenancy cleaning checklist is a detailed list of tasks that need to be completed before a tenant vacates a rental property. This checklist aims to ensure that the property is returned to its original condition so it can be properly inspected and prepared for new tenants. The following is a typical end-of-tenancy cleaning checklist that can be used as a guide.
Kitchen:
Clean the inside and outside of all cabinets and drawers
Clean the stove, oven, and hood
Clean the refrigerator, including the door seals and gaskets
Clean the dishwasher, including the filter and spray arms
Clean the sink and faucet
Clean the microwave, including the turntable
Clean the countertops and backsplash
Clean the floor, including the corners and edges
Clean the exterior of all appliances
Bathrooms:
Clean the toilet, including the bowl, tank, seat, and base
Clean the shower, including the tile, grout, and shower head
Clean the bathtub, including the tile, grout, and faucet
Clean the sink, including the faucet and countertop
Clean the floor, including the corners and edges
Clean the mirrors and glass surfaces
Clean the towel racks and toilet paper holders
Clean the light fixtures
Clean the window, including the frames, sills, and tracks
Bedrooms:
Clean the floor and walls, including the corners and edges
Clean the windows, including the frames, sills, and tracks
Dust all surfaces, including the furniture, baseboards, and doorframes
Clean the mirrors and glass surfaces
Make the beds and change the linens if required
Vacuum or sweep the floor
Living Room:
Clean the floor and walls, including the corners and edges
Clean the windows, including the frames, sills, and tracks
Dust all surfaces, including the furniture, baseboards, and doorframes
Clean the mirrors and glass surfaces
Vacuum carpets and consider sweeping and mopping floors.
Common Areas:
Clean the floor, including the corners and edges
Clean the windows, including the frames, sills, and tracks
Dust all surfaces, including the furniture, baseboards, and doorframes
Clean the mirrors and glass surfaces
Vacuum or sweep the floors and carpets
Clean the stairways and handrails
It's important to note that this is a general checklist and may vary depending on the landlord's or property management company's standards. Still, it should give you a good idea of what to expect when it comes to the end of tenancy cleaning.
It's also important to remember that fair wear and tear should be considered when evaluating the property's condition. Landlords are generally unable to charge tenants for damages considered fair wear and tear. Tenants should not be held responsible for cleaning items damaged due to normal wear and tear.
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Carrying out an end-of-tenancy cleaning can be a daunting task, but with a checklist in hand, it can make the cleaning process much more manageable. It's important to be thorough and pay attention to details when cleaning, as landlords can notice even small things during their final inspection.
In addition, hiring professional cleaning services can be a good option for tenants who may not have the time or resources to do the thorough cleaning themselves. Still, it's important to ensure the services are fully insured and experienced at the end of tenancy cleaning.
Bottom Line
End-of-tenancy cleaning is a comprehensive cleaning service performed before a tenant vacates a rental unit to return it to its original condition, so it can be properly inspected and prepared for new tenants.
This cleaning typically includes deep cleaning bathrooms and kitchens, vacuuming and mopping all floors, dusting, and wiping down surfaces. As a tenant, carrying out an end-of-tenancy clean is important as it is typically a requirement in the lease agreement and can help ensure the tenant receives their full security deposit back.
Landlords usually carry out a final inspection before the handover of the deposit. If the property is not cleaned up to the standard, the landlord has the right to deduct a certain amount from the deposit to cover the cost of cleaning. Get in touch with Income Realty Corporation today to figure out how to make your rental investment succeed!
