When it comes to moving out of a rented property, the end of tenancy cleaning can be a daunting task. Tenancy cleaning is not just about making the property look presentable; it’s about meeting the exacting standards of landlords who know exactly where to look for signs of neglect or poor maintenance. Many tenants underestimate the level of scrutiny their living space will undergo during the final inspection. This comprehensive guide will reveal the hidden areas that landlords always check, helping you ensure a thorough clean that could be the difference between receiving your full deposit back or facing unexpected deductions.
Kitchen Hideaways
Inside and behind appliances
Landlords often pull out refrigerators and ovens to check for accumulated dirt and food debris. Clean behind and underneath these appliances, and don’t forget to clean the interiors thoroughly, including oven racks and refrigerator shelves.
Cabinet interiors and exteriors
While wiping down cabinet fronts is obvious, landlords will open every door and drawer. Clean inside cabinets, removing any liner paper and wiping down all surfaces. Pay attention to the tops of cabinets, where dust often accumulates unnoticed.
Exhaust fans and filters
These are frequently overlooked but can harbor significant grease and dust. Remove and clean the filters, and wipe down the entire exhaust fan unit. A degreasing agent may be necessary for stubborn kitchen grime.
Bathroom Secrets
Grout and tile crevices
Landlords often scrutinize these areas for mold and mildew. Use a grout brush and appropriate cleaning solution to scrub between tiles. For persistent stains, a mixture of baking soda and water can be effective.
Behind and under fixtures
Move toilets if possible to clean underneath. Wipe down the often-neglected areas behind sinks and toilets. Check for any signs of water damage or leaks while cleaning these areas.
Ventilation systems
Bathroom fans collect dust and can become breeding grounds for mold. Remove the cover and vacuum inside, then wipe down with a damp cloth. Ensure the fan is functioning properly to avoid moisture-related issues.
Living Room and Bedroom Surprises
Behind and under furniture
Dust bunnies and forgotten items often lurk in these spaces. Move all furniture to clean underneath, and don’t forget to vacuum upholstered items like sofas and armchairs.
Window tracks and sills
These areas collect dirt and dead insects over time. Use a vacuum with a narrow attachment, followed by a damp cloth to clean thoroughly. For stubborn grime, an old toothbrush can be invaluable.
Light fixtures and ceiling fans
Dust accumulates on top of fan blades and inside light fixtures. Carefully clean these areas, ensuring all bulbs are working. Replace any burned-out bulbs before the inspection.
Often Overlooked Surfaces
Baseboards and crown molding
These areas are dust magnets but are frequently forgotten. Wipe them down with a damp cloth, paying extra attention to corners and crevices.
Door frames and handles
Fingerprints and scuff marks on doors and frames are easily spotted by landlords. Clean all doors, including closet doors, and disinfect handles and knobs.
Electrical outlets and switch plates
These surfaces collect dust and can show fingerprints. Wipe them down carefully, ensuring no moisture enters the electrical components.
Hidden Storage Areas
Closet interiors and shelving
Empty all closets and wipe down shelves and rods. Vacuum or sweep closet floors, and don’t forget to clean the tops of doors and any built-in drawers.
Under-sink cabinets
These areas can develop mold or water stains. Clean thoroughly and check for any signs of leaks or damage that should be reported to the landlord.
Attic and basement spaces
If your rental includes these areas, ensure they are cleared of all personal items and cleaned to the best of your ability. Pay attention to cobwebs and dust accumulation.
Exterior Checkpoints
Balconies and patios
Sweep and mop outdoor spaces. Clean railings and remove any cobwebs or dirt from corners. Ensure any outdoor furniture is clean and in good condition.
Window exteriors
If accessible, clean the outside of windows. Remove any cobwebs from window frames and ensure tracks are free of debris.
Garage and storage units
Clear out all personal items and sweep thoroughly. Clean any oil stains on the floor and ensure the space is left in the condition you found it.
Air Quality Concerns
HVAC vents and returns
Remove vent covers and vacuum inside. Wipe down the covers before replacing them. Consider replacing the HVAC filter if it’s your responsibility.
Ceiling corners and high ledges
Use an extendable duster to reach high corners and ledges where cobwebs and dust accumulate. Pay special attention to areas above kitchen cabinets.
Under radiators and heating units
These areas often collect significant dust and debris. Use a vacuum attachment or a long, thin duster to clean thoroughly underneath.
Odor Elimination Challenges
Carpet and upholstery deep cleaning
Lingering odors often reside in soft furnishings. Consider professional carpet cleaning to remove deep-seated odors and stains.
Trash and recycling bin areas
Clean and disinfect all bins, including the areas where they are stored. Lingering odors here can be off-putting during an inspection.
Refrigerator and freezer interiors
Even if these appliances are being left behind, ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and odor-free. Leave them unplugged with doors open to prevent mold growth.
Final Touches
Paint touch-ups and wall cleaning
Check walls for scuffs and marks. Clean where possible and touch up paint if allowed by your lease agreement.
Lightbulb and battery replacements
Ensure all lights are working, including in appliances like the oven. Replace any dead batteries in smoke detectors or thermostats.
Proper disposal of leftover items
Remove all personal belongings. If leaving items behind, get written permission from the landlord to avoid disposal fees.
Documentation and Communication
Before and after photos
Take detailed photos of the property’s condition before and after cleaning. This can be crucial evidence if disputes arise.
Cleaning checklist completion
Use a comprehensive cleaning checklist and mark off each task as completed. This demonstrates your thoroughness to the landlord.
Open dialogue with landlord or property manager
Communicate openly about any challenges or concerns. Ask for a pre-inspection if possible to address any issues before the final walk-through.
Conclusion
Ensuring a thorough end of tenancy clean requires attention to detail and an understanding of the often-overlooked areas that landlords always check. By focusing on these hidden spots and addressing them meticulously, you significantly increase your chances of passing the final inspection with flying colors and securing the return of your full deposit.
Remember that the level of cleanliness expected at the end of a tenancy often exceeds normal day-to-day standards. If you find the task overwhelming or time-consuming, consider engaging professional tenancy cleaning services. These experts are familiar with landlords’ expectations and have the tools and expertise to tackle even the most challenging cleaning tasks.
Ultimately, leaving your rental property in impeccable condition not only helps secure your deposit but also maintains a positive relationship with your landlord, which can be valuable for future references. By following this comprehensive guide and paying attention to the hidden areas landlords always check, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful end of tenancy inspection and a smooth transition to your next home.