Moving out of a rental can be an overwhelming experience, filled with a long list of tasks that need to be checked off before you can turn in your keys and hopefully get your full deposit back. The cleanliness of your home plays a crucial role in this process.
A comprehensive exit clean not only ensures that you leave the property in a clean condition, but it also honours your lease agreement, often a prerequisite to receive your full deposit back. While some opt for the convenience and expertise of hiring Exit Cleaning Melbourne professionals, many choose to undertake this task themselves. Whichever route you decide to take, preparation and a detailed checklist are a must.
Here, we will provide you with an ultimate exit clean checklist, offering insights and tips from professional cleaners to make your moving out process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether it’s deep cleaning the kitchen to tackle grease build-up or ensuring your bathroom sparkles, from room-specific tasks to general cleaning tips, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started on making your move-out cleaning a breeze, ensuring you leave nothing behind but good memories.
Preparation for Your Exit Clean
Moving out of a rental property requires more than just packing your belongings. To ensure you get your deposit back and leave the property in top condition for the next tenants, an end-of-lease clean is essential.
Proper preparation is key to making the cleaning process smooth and efficient. Here’s how you can prepare for your exit clean.
Schedule Your Cleaning
One of the most important steps in preparing for an end-of-lease clean is to schedule it appropriately. Underestimating the time and effort required for a thorough cleaning is a common mistake. It’s advisable to break down the cleaning process into several days instead of leaving it all for the last moment.
For effective scheduling, consider the size of your property and the extent of cleaning required. For example, a team of two professional cleaners could take between 4-6 hours for a three-bedroom apartment and a full day for a larger house. By splitting the task over several days, you can reduce the burden and ensure every area gets the attention it needs.
Empty the Home Before Cleaning
To make your end-of-lease cleaning as effective as possible, it’s highly recommended to empty your home of all your belongings before you start. Moving can be messy, and trying to clean around boxes or furniture will only complicate the process.
An empty home allows better access to all surfaces, ensuring you can clean every nook and cranny without obstructions. Plus, this step ensures that you won’t miss cleaning under or behind items, which are areas that can easily be overlooked but are critical for passing the final inspection.
Essential Cleaning Supplies and Equipment
Having the right tools and cleaning supplies is crucial for a successful end-of-lease clean. Not only does it make the job easier, but it also ensures that you can tackle different types of surfaces and stains effectively. Here’s a rundown of the basic supplies and specialised equipment you might need.
Basic Cleaning Supplies
For a thorough cleaning, you’ll need a variety of basic cleaning supplies. These include brooms, dustpans, brushes, gloves, mops, vacuum cleaners, buckets, sponges, soaps, and a range of cleaning products suited for different surfaces.
Paper towels and newspapers can also come in handy for cleaning windows and mirrors to leave them streak-free. Having these supplies gathered before you begin ensures you can move smoothly from one task to the next without having to stop and search for the right tool.
Specialised Equipment for Deep Cleaning
For those tougher jobs or areas that require a bit more attention, specialised cleaning equipment may be necessary. This includes carpet steam cleaners for deep cleaning carpets, oven cleaners and scrapers for tackling grease build-up in ovens, and sugar soap for effectively washing walls.
If you have high areas to clean, such as ceiling fans or the tops of cabinets, a ladder may also be required. Additionally, if your lease agreement specifies that professional pest control is needed, it’s wise to hire a certified pest control service to handle this aspect.
By adequately preparing for your end-of-lease clean and gathering the necessary supplies and equipment, you can ensure a smoother process. This not only helps in getting your deposit back but also in leaving the property in excellent condition for the next tenants.
Detailed Room-by-Room Cleaning Guide
Kitchen Deep Clean Checklist
The kitchen often requires the most effort due to potential grease build-up. Start by cleaning the oven inside and out, using a degreaser if necessary, which can take up to an hour. Next, clean the stovetop and degrease the range hood.
Wipe down all benchtop surfaces and clean the backsplash and the sink, including handles and spout. Don’t forget to clean out the pantry, cupboards, shelves, and drawers. If applicable, clean inside appliances like the microwave, dishwasher, and fridge.
Bathroom and Toilet Cleaning Essentials
After the kitchen, bathrooms usually need the most work. Begin by washing all tiled surfaces and clean any bathtubs and basins. Make sure to clean the shower glass/screens, shower head, and faucets thoroughly.
Disinfect the toilets and clean the vanity, handles, and spout. Don’t forget to polish the mirrors, clean the medicine cabinets, and dust any air vents to ensure a comprehensive bathroom clean.
Bedrooms, Dining, and Living Areas
For these areas, start by vacuuming, sweeping, or mopping the floors. Clean all storage spaces including cupboards, shelves, and drawers. Clean wardrobe mirrors, frames, and tracks. Windows, their sills, and tracks should also be cleaned from the inside.
Pay attention to door frames, skirting boards, blinds, and any light fixtures that are accessible. Remember to clean light switches, power points, remove cobwebs, and consider Carpet Cleaning South Yarra or wall washing as required.
Laundry Room Clean-Up
For homes with a laundry room, start by vacuuming, sweeping, or mopping the floors. Wipe down the surfaces of washers and dryers and remove any dryer lint. Also, clean the sink, handles, and spout to ensure a thorough laundry room clean-up.
Balcony and Outdoor Area Focus
If your property includes an outdoor balcony, start by vacuuming, sweeping, or mopping the floor. Clean any sliding patio doors and their tracks, both interior and exterior. Additionally, wash windows, sills, and tracks on the exterior to leave the balcony looking pristine.
Don’t Forget the Garage
The garage typically requires less time. Begin by sweeping the floors and cleaning any cupboards, shelves, and drawers. Also, ensure to remove any cobwebs to tidy up the space efficiently.
Additional Cleaning Tips and Tricks
Exterior Cleaning for Extra Sparkle
Focus on clearing out plant debris and removing dust and cobwebs from outdoor furniture and window sills. If you have a lawn, consider trimming the edges and removing weeds.
Also, ensure outdoor lighting is clean and in working condition, and address any oil stains on the garage floor, doors, and walls.
Cost-Effective Cleaning Solutions
Utilise homemade solutions like a mixture of vinegar and baking soda for effective and cheap cleaning solutions. This is particularly useful for cleaning glass surfaces, bathroom tiles, and grout.
For tougher stains or grease, a solution of sugar soap can be used on walls and floors to break down the dirt without the need for expensive commercial cleaners.
Hiring Professional Cleaners vs DIY
Deciding between hiring exit cleaning Melbourne professionals and doing it yourself depends on your budget, time constraints, and the level of cleanliness required.
While DIY can be more cost-effective and give you control over the process, professional cleaners can save time and ensure a thorough, inspection-ready clean. Weigh the pros and cons based on your situation to make an informed decision.
Final Inspection and Real Estate Agent Approval
Ensuring your exit clean meets the expectations of your landlord or real estate agent is pivotal for a smooth transition out of your rental property. This section helps you navigate the final steps of the move-out process, aiming for the return of your full bond.
Ensuring Everything is up to Standard
An exit clean differs from standard cleaning as it involves a thorough and detailed cleaning of the entire property, including areas that might not be part of your regular cleaning routine. High attention to detail ensures that the property is in the same condition as it was when you moved in.
It’s essential to revisit your rental agreement and any condition reports to match the original state of the property. Pay special attention to walls, carpets, and appliances, where wear and tear could be more evident.
Preparing for the Final Walk-Through
The final walk-through with your real estate agent or landlord is a critical component of the move-out process. It’s advisable to schedule this as close as possible to the end of your lease and after the property has been cleaned.
This gives you a chance to address any concerns immediately. Prepare a copy of your exit clean checklist, detailing the tasks completed throughout the property. During the walk-through, be open to feedback and ready to note any areas that may need a quick touch-up.
Negotiating Your Bond Refund
Once the final inspection is completed satisfactorily, the negotiation for your bond refund begins. Understanding the state laws regarding security deposits and the stipulated time frames for their return is crucial.
If deductions are proposed for repairs or additional cleaning, request detailed quotes and compare them with the condition report at the start of your tenancy. If you find discrepancies or unfair charges, be prepared to dispute them, providing evidence of the property’s condition upon departure, like photographs.
FAQs
Q: How long before my move-out date should I start the exit clean?
A: Starting at least a week before can ensure you have sufficient time to cover all areas detailed in the exit clean checklist, avoid the last-minute rush, and handle any unexpected tasks.
Q: What if I don’t have time to do the exit clean myself?
A: Hiring a professional cleaning service that specialises in exit cleaning can be an effective solution. They understand the standards required by real estate agents and can save you time and potential stress.
Q: Can my landlord charge me for normal wear and tear?
A: Generally, no. Normal wear and tear are expected over time. However, any damages beyond that can be deducted from your security deposit. It’s important to differentiate between the two when reviewing final deductions.
Q: Is there anything I should do after the final inspection?
A: Ensure you receive written confirmation that the property was returned in good condition. Also, provide your forwarding address or bank details for the bond refund and keep records of all correspondences related to the move-out and bond refund process.
Q: What common areas are often overlooked in an exit clean?
A: Areas like the tops of cabinets, light fixtures, behind large appliances, and window tracks can be easily forgotten but are important for a thorough clean.
Conclusion
The process of moving out and ensuring an efficient exit clean can undoubtedly be a daunting task. However, following the comprehensive exit clean checklist detailed above can make this process much smoother and more manageable.
It is crucial to revisit every area of your rental property, ensuring that each corner, nook, and appliance is attended to, from the kitchen to the bathroom, living areas, and even the garage and balcony.
Remember, the goal of an exit clean is not only fulfilling your rental agreement’s requirements but also ensuring a seamless transition for future tenants, while securing the return of your security deposit. Whether you decide to undertake this task by yourself or opt for professional exit cleaning Melbourne, the importance of thorough preparation and attention to detail cannot be overstressed.
For professional cleaning at affordable rates, you can rely on OZ Vacate Cleaning. Our expert cleaners offer customisable services for each client, that’s why we guarantee 100% customer satisfaction. Reach out to our team and let us take off your exit cleaning stress!
