Moving out from a rental property can be a daunting task, and the end of lease cleaning requires extra attention. The lease agreement usually requires tenants to perform move out cleaning, also commonly known as bond cleaning. It is essential to ensure that the property is left in a clean and tidy condition to comply with the agreement and avoid any disputes with the landlord or property manager.
However, tenants often make several mistakes during the cleaning process that can cost them their bond money. This post will outline common mistakes tenants make during end of lease cleaning and how to fix them.
Mistake 1: Not planning the move out cleaning process
One major mistake that tenants make during the end of lease cleaning process is not planning the process correctly. Cleaning can be time-consuming and requires proper planning to ensure that all areas are cleaned thoroughly.
Solution: Plan the cleaning process in advance and create a checklist of items that need cleaning. Divide the cleaning process into smaller sections, such as cleaning the bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area. Start with the most challenging areas and leave the easier ones for later. This approach will help break down the cleaning process and make it more manageable.
Mistake 2: Not following the end of lease cleaning checklist
Another common mistake that tenants make is not following the end of lease cleaning checklist provided by the property manager or landlord. Following the checklist is crucial to ensure that the property is cleaned according to the standards required in the lease agreement.
Solution: Obtain the end of lease cleaning checklist provided by the landlord or property manager and follow it meticulously. Make sure to clean all the areas mentioned in the checklist, including the often-neglected areas like fan blades, skirting boards, and window tracks. Completing the checklist to the required standard can increase the chances of receiving the full bond money back.
Mistake 3: Trying to do it all alone
Bond back cleaning is a daunting task, and trying to do it independently can lead to serious mistakes or missed spots. Tenants might not have the necessary equipment and cleaning products to perform the cleaning task effectively.
Solution: Consider hiring a professional end of lease cleaning Melbourne company that specializes in bond cleaning. They will have the experience, equipment, and cleaning products required to perform the cleaning task effectively. Professional cleaners will also ensure that all areas are thoroughly cleaned to meet the landlord or property manager's standards.
Mistake 4: Not estimating the time required for end of lease cleaning
Tenants often underestimate the time required for end of lease cleaning, which can lead to a rush job, missed spots, or incomplete cleaning.
Solution: Estimate the time required for cleaning and plan adequately. Consider the size of the property, the number of rooms, and the cleaning requirements. It is always better to overestimate the time required and plan accordingly.
Mistake 5: Not cleaning the carpets properly
Carpets are an essential part of the property and require thorough cleaning to ensure that they are in good condition. However, tenants often neglect the carpets during the end of lease cleaning, leading to disputes with the landlord or property manager.
Solution: Use a professional carpet cleaning service to clean the carpets. Carpets require specialized cleaning products and equipment, which might not be available to tenants. Professional carpet cleaners will ensure that the carpets are cleaned thoroughly and meet the landlord or property manager's standards.
Mistake 6: Not cleaning the oven and kitchen appliances
The oven and other kitchen appliances are often neglected during the end of lease cleaning process, which can lead to disputes with the landlord or property manager.
Solution: Clean the oven and other kitchen appliances thoroughly. Use specialized cleaning products and equipment to clean the oven and cooktop. Remove any built-up grime and grease from the kitchen appliances. Ensure that the appliances are left in a clean and tidy condition.
Mistake 7: Forgetting to clean the windows and blinds
Windows and blinds are often forgotten during the end of lease cleaning process, leading to a dispute with the landlord or property manager.
Solution: Clean the windows and blinds thoroughly. Use specialized cleaning products to clean the windows and remove any built-up dirt or grime. Clean the blinds by using a damp cloth and wipe it down thoroughly.
Mistake 8: Not paying attention to the bathroom and toilet
The bathroom and toilet require thorough cleaning to ensure that they are in a good condition. Neglecting the bathroom and toilet can lead to disputes with the landlord or property manager.
Solution: Clean the bathroom and toilet thoroughly. Use specialized cleaning products to remove any stains and buildup in the bathroom and toilet. Ensure that the toilet is cleaned thoroughly, including the lids, seats, and surrounding areas.
Conclusion
End of lease cleaning is an essential part of the moving out process and requires proper planning and attention. Tenants often make several mistakes during the end of lease cleaning process, which can cost them their bond money or lead to disputes with the landlord or property manager. By following the solutions outlined in this post, tenants can ensure that they perform the bond cleaning to the required standard and increase the chances of receiving the full bond money back.
