Moving out of a rental property can be stressful, especially when it comes to getting your deposit back. Aside from being a responsible tenant and not causing damage to the structure of the property or the appliances that come with it, a large portion of what will determine whether you’ll get your money back, is related to the end of tenancy cleaning. Almost any landlord or letting agent will require you to arrange a professional service before your return the keys to your now ex-home. And they do have very high expectations on the quality of the job.
Plan Ahead
Start planning your end of tenancy cleaning well in advance. End of tenancy cleaners are usually very busy, especially in big cities. Booking the exact slot you want and need can be tricky if you don’t allow at least a couple of weeks. Sometimes even more. Although most reputable cleaning companies follow a strict and comprehensive end of tenancy cleaning checklist, there’s no harm in making your own. That’s just an extra insurance that everything will be covered and therefore, you’ll maximise your chances of getting your deposit back.
Kitchen Cleaning
In the kitchen, you will be expected to leave a clean oven, hob, and extractor fan. Also, the fridge and freezer must be cleaned and the latter defrosted if needed. Not to forget cleaning and disinfection of all surfaces and cupboards inside and out. Bear in mind that oven cleaning is not normally included in the quote you will receive for an end of tenancy cleaning. This is an extra service that needs to be booked in addition.
Bathroom Cleaning
In the bathroom, the cleaners should scrub the toilet, sink, and bath or shower thoroughly. The grout is a point of review and attention, as it can often accumulate mildew and stains. Limescale should be removed from all surfaces, mirrors cleaned and the vanity and floor disinfected after the appropriate treatment with cleaning products.
Living Areas
The living areas include your reception, dining room and bedrooms. All surfaces should be dusted and cleaned, including skirting boards, windowsills, and light fixtures. If there are any electronics or appliances staying in the property (agreed with the owner), they should be wiped and cleaned appropriately. The expectation for curtains and blinds is to be washed as well. Finally, where there are hard floors, the surface should be mopped and disinfected. In rooms covered with carpets, the landlords usually request for a professional carpet cleaning. This is also an additional service, which needs to be agreed and booked with your end of tenancy cleaners.
Walls and Ceilings
Check for any scuff marks or stains on the walls and ceilings. Where needed and where possible they should be cleaned. Pay particular attention to areas near light switches and door handles. Those are frequently missed spots even by some less experienced professional cleaning teams.
Final Touches
Before you return the keys to the property, give it a final once-over, checking for any areas that may have been missed. It would be a shame to have a chunk of your deposit deducted for something you could have spotted and fixed. Make sure to dispose of any rubbish and leave the property in a tidy condition.