8 Mistakes Everyone Makes When Doing End-of-Lease Cleaning
End-of-lease cleaning is a must if you want to receive your security deposit back in full. Moving out of your leased property can be stressful, especially when it comes to bond cleaning. To ensure an easy and hassle-free move-out experience, it's important to pay close attention to common pitfalls that could jeopardize your security funds. Read on to learn about the most common mistakes made during end-of-lease cleaning.
Make a List of What Needs to Be Cleaned
Before you start cleaning, make a comprehensive list of all the tasks and areas that need to be addressed. It's easy to forget a step or overlook something in the hustle of preparing to move out, so create a detailed list of all the items that need cleaning in each room. This will help you remember everything and reduce frustration when it comes time to clean up.
Not getting professional cleaners to clean the carpets or upholstery
Professional carpet and upholstery cleaners are trained to thoroughly clean materials such as carpets, rugs, and couches. They use industrial-strength cleaning products, special equipment, and techniques that remove deep-seated dirt, dust, and allergens, giving your home a sparklingly clean look. Plus your landlord will be more than happy with the end results!
Forgetting to remove rubbish and other items from the premises
Being sure to remove all rubbish and items from a rental property is a very important part of end-of-lease cleaning. Don't forget about forgotten items in the kitchen, living room, bedroom, or other areas of your home; discarded cartoon boxes and cereal boxes you've been meaning to get rid of the need to go as well. Pay special attention to areas like closets and storage rooms as they might be forgotten when doing an end-of-lease clean.
Not cleaning behind appliances and furniture
One of the most common mistakes people make when cleaning at the end of a lease is not cleaning behind furniture and appliances. When moving out, make sure to take the time to move items like fridges and wardrobes away from walls and clean any dirt or dust that may have accumulated in those spaces. It's also important to get into corners and edges that you may normally not look at during regular cleaning.
Conduct Regular Maintenance and Repairs
Regular maintenance and repairs throughout the lease period can significantly reduce the workload at the end of the lease. Small tasks like regular vacuuming, dusting, and wiping down surfaces will reduce surface dirt and grime build-up over time. This is especially important in high-traffic areas such as entranceways, hallways, and kitchens. Additionally, ensure pillars do not become discolored, windows are kept clean of smears or grime buildup, and check that door handles are wiped regularly to avoid any sticky residue forming over time.
Forgetting to deep clean crevices, window tracks, and skirting boards
Don't forget to clean those hard-to-reach areas like between the skirting boards, window sills, and frames. Cleaning these areas is important as they collect dust over time and can create a less-than-pleasant first impression when moving out. Make sure to use an effective cleaner or disinfectant on these surfaces and make sure any mold around window sill edges is scrubbed away. Deep cleaning these pesky areas are essential for getting your security deposit back.
Not leaving a checklist for the cleaning teamso they know what to do exactly
Moving out can be stressful and busy, but it's important to leave a comprehensive cleaning checklist for your end-of-lease cleaning team so that they know exactly what needs doing. Create a list of all the areas that need to be cleaned including furniture, floors, windows, and walls. Include areas like inside cupboards and drawers, stove hoods, and other kitchen appliances. By providing this information in advance you’ll ensure that these areas are getting thoroughly cleaned on the day of move-out. Doing so will help you achieve desired results when trying to get your security deposit back!
Get the Right Cleaning Products and Equipment
It’s likely you won’t have access to all the products and equipment needed for a thorough end-of-lease clean. Get organized before you start and make sure you have everything on hand. Things like vacuum cleaners, scrub brushes, sponges, mops, glass cleaners, and window squeegees are essential for getting a professional-level clean. Plus, check with your landlord about any specific products they recommend for cleaning their property, as there may be unique requirements that need to be met.
Leaving the premises of your leased property in good condition has become a part and parcel of every lease agreement. This practice is important as it ensures the peaceful tenancy of the new tenant.
