It can feel overwhelming when you're trying to pack up your belongings and get ready for your next house move and there are endless things to think about. However, it's important not to overlook end of tenancy cleaning, as it could impact your deposit or bond return.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the essential cleaning tasks you can't afford to miss.
Why End of Tenancy Cleaning is Important
As a tenant, it is your responsibility to hand back the property in the same condition as when you moved in. This means ensuring it's clean and tidy, and any damage caused during your tenancy is repaired. Failing to do an end of tenancy clean, either by yourself or using a cleaning company, could result in deductions from your deposit.
End of tenancy cleaning is important for your own peace of mind. Moving can be a stressful time, but knowing that you've left the property in a good condition can help alleviate some of that stress.
From the landlord's perspective, a clean property is more appealing to potential new tenants. If the property is left in a dirty or messy state, it could deter potential tenants, leading to longer void periods and less rental income.
End of Tenancy Cleaning Checklist
To ensure you don't miss any essential cleaning tasks, it's important to have a checklist. Here are the tasks you should include:
1. Kitchen Cleaning Tasks
- Clean the oven, including the hob and extractor fan
- Clean the fridge and freezer, defrosting if necessary
- Clean the microwave
- Clean the dishwasher
- Clean the washing machine and dryer
- Clean the sink and taps
- Clean the countertops and backsplash
- Clean the cabinets inside and out, including the very top
- Empty and clean the bins
- Clean the floor and doors
2. Bathroom Cleaning Tasks
- Clean the toilet, including the bowl, seat, and tank
- Clean the shower or bathtub, including the grout, tiles, and showerhead
- Clean the sink and taps
- Clean the mirror
- Clean the cabinets inside and out
- Empty and clean the bins
- Clean the floor and doors
3. Living Room Cleaning Tasks
- Dust and polish all surfaces, including coffee tables, side tables, and shelves
- Vacuum the carpets and rugs
- Clean the windows and window sills
- Clean any mirrors or picture frames
- Clean any upholstery or curtains
4. Bedroom Cleaning Tasks
- Dust and polish all surfaces, including bedside tables and dressers
- Vacuum the carpets and rugs
- Clean the windows and window sills
- Clean any mirrors or picture frames
- Wash all bedding and pillows
5. Cleaning Appliances
It's not just the visible surfaces that need to be cleaned — you also need to clean your appliances. This includes your oven, fridge, dishwasher, washing machine (including the powder drawer) and dryer. For appliances such as the oven and fridge, it's best to use specialist cleaning products to ensure they're thoroughly cleaned. For washing machines and dishwashers, run them on a hot cycle with a specialist cleaner to remove any build-up.
6. Carpets and Flooring
Carpets and flooring can be a breeding ground for bacteria and dirt, so it's important to give them a deep clean before you move out. If you have carpets, it's best to hire a professional carpet cleaner to ensure they're cleaned thoroughly. If you have hard flooring, sweep and mop to remove any dirt or debris.
Hiring Professional Cleaners for End of Tenancy Cleaning
If the thought of tackling end of tenancy cleaning yourself is too daunting, you could consider hiring professional cleaners. A professional cleaning company will have the expertise and equipment to ensure the property is cleaned to the highest standard, giving you peace of mind that you'll receive your full deposit back as a tenant, or if you are a landlord you can be confident that your new tenants will not complain about a dirty property.
Communicating with Your Letting Agent About End of Tenancy Cleaning
It's important to communicate with your letting agent or landlord about end of tenancy cleaning. They may have specific requirements or recommendations, and it's best to clarify these before you start cleaning. They may also be able to recommend professional cleaners or provide you with a checklist to ensure you don't miss anything.
How End of Tenancy Cleaning Affects Your Deposit Return
End of tenancy cleaning can have a significant impact on your deposit return. If the property isn't cleaned to a high standard, the landlord may choose to deduct from your deposit to cover the cost of cleaning. On the other hand, if the property is left in a good condition, you're more likely to receive your full deposit back.
DIY End of Tenancy Cleaning vs. Hiring Professionals
Deciding whether to tackle end of tenancy cleaning yourself or hire professionals is a personal choice. If you have the time and energy, and are confident in your cleaning abilities, you may choose to do it yourself. However, if you're short on time or simply don't want to deal with the stress, hiring professionals may be the best option.
Whether you are a tenant, landlord or lettings agent, speak to us today about our professional end of tenancy cleaning service to make your property sparkle.