Moving out is stressful. For many people, the final cleaning inspection at the end of the lease feels like a significant hurdle. You want to make sure everything is spotless, not just to impress your landlord but to ensure you get your bond back. Whether you plan to do this yourself or hire a bond cleaning service, I have tips to help you pass the inspection.
I’ve worked in the cleaning business for many years. I’ve seen everything—some homes that are spotless and others that make you wonder how people ever lived there! But with a little planning and attention to detail, you can absolutely ensure you get your bond back. Let’s get started.
Understanding End of Lease Cleaning Requirements
What Landlords and Agents Expect
First, let’s break down what your landlord or real estate agent will be looking for. This isn’t just a quick tidy-up; we’re talking about a bond cleaning service that covers every nook and cranny. Kitchens, bathrooms, carpets, windows, and walls all need special attention.
Landlords expect you to return the rental property in the same condition it was in when you moved in, minus normal wear and tear. A friend of mine once thought sweeping the floors and a quick dusting would be enough. She lost part of her bond because the oven was greasy and there were cobwebs behind the furniture. Landlords will notice these things! They have an eye for detail, especially when inspecting with your bond back guarantee on the line.
The Lease Agreement as a Guide
Before you even lift a mop, grab your lease agreement. Most leases include specific cleaning requirements, and skipping something mentioned there could cost you. Does it mention carpet steam cleaning? Garden maintenance? Maybe even pest control? These details will help you understand what’s expected so that you’re not left with any extra costs.
Key Areas to Focus on During End of Lease Cleaning
The Kitchen
Let’s start with the kitchen, which is one of the toughest areas to clean. People often overlook the oven, stove, and range hood during regular cleanings, even though these areas can get very dirty. When I first started doing bond cleaning, I underestimated how long it takes to clean a greasy oven. Trust me, it takes a while! Make sure you clean inside the oven, degrease the stovetop, and get rid of any grime in the range hood filters.
Also, don’t forget to clean the cabinets inside and out. You’d be amazed at how much dust and crumbs can accumulate there. Clean the countertops, wipe down appliances, and give the floors a good scrub.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms are another area that landlords and real estate agents will scrutinize. The inspector will be looking for sparkling tiles, spotless mirrors, and a shower screen free of soap scum. Scrub any mold or limescale buildup in the shower and around taps, and don’t forget to give the toilet a good clean.
I remember one inspection where the tenant cleaned everything but missed some mold in the grout of the shower tiles. It seemed like a small thing, but the landlord noticed it right away and deducted from their bond. Make sure to check every corner, even behind the toilet and around faucets!
Carpets and Floors
If you have carpets, they’ll need a deep clean, especially if your lease specifies professional carpet cleaning. Vacuum thoroughly, and consider renting a steam cleaner or booking a bond cleaning service for this. For hardwood or tile floors, make sure they’re spotless and free of scratches or scuffs.
Windows, Walls, and Baseboards
Windows are easy to forget but are a common sticking point during inspections. Make sure to clean both the glass and the frames. As for walls, remove any scuff marks and consider some touch-up painting if needed. Don’t forget baseboards—dust loves to collect down there, and it can easily be missed during regular cleanings.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Failed Inspections
Ignoring Minor Details
It’s often the small things that lead to failed inspections. Light fittings, blinds, door frames, and ventilation grates all need attention. I once cleaned an entire house top to bottom, but the tenant missed dusting the ceiling fans and blinds. The landlord noticed right away, and they had to come back and redo the clean. Don’t let that happen to you!
Overlooking Appliances
Appliances like the dishwasher, washing machine, and fridge are often forgotten. Make sure they’re all empty, wiped down, and free of any lingering smells. Don’t forget to clean the filters, too—those can get pretty gross if left unchecked.
Not Checking for Damage
Before the inspection, do a quick walkthrough to check for any damage. Small repairs like filling nail holes or touching up paint can save you a lot of hassle later on. This is often where people end up with extra costs that could have been avoided.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional Bond Cleaning Service
Why DIY Can Be Tricky
DIY cleaning can definitely save you some money, but it’s not always the easiest option. It takes time—sometimes a lot of it—and requires a high level of attention to detail. I’ve had clients who thought they could handle everything themselves, only to call me two days before their inspection because they’d run out of time or realized they’d missed something important.
If you’re going the DIY route, make sure you have a detailed checklist and set aside enough time. A thorough bond clean can take several days, depending on the size of the home.
The Advantages of Professional Cleaning
On the other hand, hiring a professional bond cleaning service takes all the stress off your shoulders. We know exactly what landlords and real estate agents look for and will make sure every corner of your home is spotless. Plus, with access to professional-grade equipment and products, we can tackle the tougher spots more effectively.
Many bond cleaning services offer a bond back guarantee, meaning if the landlord is not satisfied with the clean, they’ll return for free to fix any issues. That peace of mind is invaluable, especially when your bond is on the line. You can also book online or get free quotes from most professional cleaning services, making the process even easier.
How to Prepare for the Final Inspection
Doing a Final Walk-Through
Once the cleaning is done, take a final walk-through of the rental property. Use a checklist to make sure you haven’t missed anything, from the tops of the cupboards to the baseboards. Walk through each room with fresh eyes and check for anything that might need a last-minute touch-up.
Coordinating with Your Landlord or Agent
It’s a good idea to communicate with your landlord or real estate agent before the inspection. Let them know the cleaning is complete and ask if there are any specific areas they’ll be focusing on. This can help you address any last-minute concerns before they arrive.
Conclusion
End of lease cleaning can be a big job, but with some planning and attention to detail, you can ace your inspection and get your bond back in full. Whether you choose to clean yourself or hire a professional bond cleaning service, the key is to make sure every corner of your rental property is spotless.
Call to Action
Feeling overwhelmed? Save yourself the stress and book online with a bond cleaning service that offers a bond back guarantee. With free quotes and professional cleaners, you can rest easy knowing your rental property is in good hands—ensuring you get every penny of your bond back!