Moving can be a whirlwind of emotions – excitement for a new chapter, stress about packing, and the not-so-fun task of cleaning your old place. But a thorough end-of-lease clean is crucial, not just for leaving a good impression, but for securing the return of your security deposit, also known as a bond.
In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of end of lease cleaning services Canberra, explaining what it is, why it’s important, and how to tackle it yourself or with professional help.
What is End-of-Lease Cleaning?
End-of-lease cleaning, also called bond cleaning or move-out cleaning, is a deep cleaning of your rental property before you vacate it. It goes beyond your usual cleaning routine and aims to return the place to the condition it was in when you first moved in, minus normal wear and tear.
Why is End-of-Lease Cleaning Important?
There are two main reasons why end-of-lease cleaning is important:
- Securing your bond: Most tenancy agreements state that you must return the property in a clean and well-maintained condition. If the property manager finds the place insufficiently cleaned during the final inspection, they can withhold part or even all of your bond to cover cleaning costs.
- Leaving a good impression: A sparkling Canberra end of lease cleaners property shows respect for the landlord’s property and increases the chances of getting a positive reference, which can be helpful when applying for future rentals.
What’s Included in an End-of-Lease Clean?
An end-of-lease clean is a comprehensive endeavour, encompassing several areas:
- Kitchen: This includes cleaning the oven, stovetop, rangehood, grill, sink, cabinets (inside and out), countertops, backsplash, and floors. Don’t forget to defrost and clean the refrigerator and remove any spills or crumbs.
- Bathroom: Scrub showers, bathtubs, toilets, vanity units, mirrors, and floors. Pay close attention to grout, mildew, and limescale buildup.
- Living Areas: Dust furniture, wipe down walls and skirting boards, vacuum carpets and rugs, and mop hard floors. Don’t forget to clean light fixtures, ceiling fans, and window blinds.
- Bedrooms: Similar to living areas, including cleaning windows, cobwebs, and built-in wardrobes.
- Laundry: Clean the washing machine and dryer, both inside and out.
- Overall: Ensure all windows are clean, cobwebs are removed, and rubbish bins are emptied.
DIY End-of-Lease Cleaning vs. Hiring Professionals
There are two main approaches to end-of-lease cleaning – tackling it yourself or hiring end of lease cleaning professional cleaners. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each option:
DIY End-of-Lease Cleaning:
- Pros: Cost-effective. You can control the cleaning process and use your preferred cleaning products.
- Cons: Time-consuming and physically demanding. Requires attention to detail and knowledge of proper cleaning techniques for different surfaces.
Hiring Professional Cleaners:
- Pros: Saves time and effort. Professionals have the experience and equipment to ensure a thorough clean that meets bond return standards. Many companies offer bond-back guarantees for peace of mind.
- Cons: Additional cost.
Tips for DIY End-of-Lease Cleaning:
- Plan and Schedule: Allocate enough time for Canberra end of lease cleaners, ideally a few days before your move-out date. Create a checklist to ensure you don’t miss any areas.
- Gather Supplies: Stock up on cleaning products, sponges, cloths, mops, and garbage bags.
- Work Methodically: Start from top to bottom, cleaning high areas like cobwebs and light fixtures first, then move down to surfaces and floors. Clean each room systematically.
- Don’t Forget the Details: Pay attention to areas that easily get overlooked, like window tracks, behind appliances, and under furniture.
Summing Up
Whether you choose to DIY or hire end of lease cleaning Canberra professionals, a thorough end-of-lease clean is an essential step in the moving process. By following these tips and ensuring your rental is spotless, you’ll increase your chances of getting your full bond back and leaving your landlord with a positive impression.
