Nobody wants to lose their hard earned security deposit to dusty light fixtures, grimy window sills, dingy grout lines and other overlooked areas at the end of a tenancy. Unfortunately, bond disputes are common in Western Australia, leaving tenants distressed throughout the process. Conflicts can occur due to various reasons, including disagreements over unpaid rent, damage and, of course, the property's condition at the end of the lease. Leaving dirt, grime, and gunk behind could lead to bond deductions and penalties. That's where a detailed bond cleaning checklist comes in.
As a responsible tenant, you should follow a pre approved checklist to reach every hidden corner and meet landlord’s cleaning standards. From walls to kitchen appliances and bathroom fixtures, ensure you pay attention to every aspect to pass your rental inspection. Today, we bring you 10 key areas tenants often overlook during the end of lease cleaning before the rental inspection. With this helpful guide, you can streamline the process while maximising your full bond return. It is good to keep necessary tools and products handy to tackle dust bunnies and grime effectively.
Let’s Get Started!
1. Air Vents and Filters
Air vents, ducts and filters are the most neglected things as they are usually located on the ceiling, behind the furniture or inside systems. Plus, they don't look visibility nasty at first as dust collects gradually inside the vents. Unfortunately, it can pollute the indoor air, causing respiratory problems or triggering pre-existing allergies.
Before you get into the process, turn off the HVAC system to prevent electrical hazards. Next, remove the vent covers using a screwdriver and submerge the covers in hot, soapy water. Ensure you gently scrub the surface with a soft, bristled brush. Rinse and dry it. When cleaning inside the vents, wipe down the surface with a damp cloth. You can also use white vinegar spray for grime removal.
Tip: Make sure you clean the filter as per the manufacturer's instructions to improve ventilation and air circulation.
2. Ceiling Fans and Blades
A ceiling fan is an essential household fixture, circulating cool air and ventilating the room. However, the blades of the fan tend to accumulate thick layers of dust and debris. This can pollute the indoor air and cause various health concerns. As the property owner or landlord carefully examines these areas, deep cleaning your fans and blades becomes imperative.
According to vacate cleaning Perth professionals, you can use a step stool or ladder to easily reach the fan. Next, slide in an old pillow case over each blade and gently pull it back while trapping dust particles. This prevents dust from falling downwards or spreading into the air. Repeat the process for other blades as well. You can also use a cloth dampened in vinegar solution to remove gunk and grime.
People with mobility issues can use a long, extendable handle to prevent complications.
3. Light Fixtures and Fittings
It is common for tenants to forget light fixtures and fittings when sprucing up their property. To clean them, use a damp microfiber cloth and gently wipe every nook and cranny. Use a dishwashing liquid soap to dislodge grime and gunk. For a thorough clean up, remove and wash them in the dishwasher. Ensure you gently wipe the fixture to dry completely. This will make your property look clean and shiny.
Tip: Turn off the power and let it cool down completely..
4. Drawers and Cabinets Interiors
Leaving cabinets and drawers dirty and greasy from the inside won't leave a good impression on your landlord. Leftover food crumbs, spills, dust and grime can be a breeding ground for germs and mould infestation, causing permanent damage.
To clean them, start by emptying the cabinets. Take a damp cloth and wipe down the surface. For stains and oil splatters, spray white vinegar solution and gently scrub the area. You can use an old toothbrush to access tight spots effortlessly.
5. Window Tracks, Sills and Frames
Washing the window glass isn't enough. It is important to clean the difficult-to-access areas, such as window sills, tracks and frames, to banish grime, gunk and accumulated dust. You can follow these steps for spotless results:
- Use a crevice vacuum attachment to remove dust and debris from window tracks. You can also use an old toothbrush.
- Wipe the window sills using a damp cloth and vinegar solution, covering nooks and crannies
- Clean the window frames using a microfiber cloth and castile soap solution. Wipe dry the surface.
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6. Window Blinds
Do not forget window blinds, which tend to collect dust and debris that can pollute indoor air. You can use kitchen tongs and wrap a microfiber cloth around it. Secure it with a band and clean each slate to dislodge dirt and grime. After that, spray the vinegar solution and wipe it again for a spotless shine.
7. Behind Large Appliances
Most renters only clean oven and other kitchen appliances inside and outside, but forget the area behind them. These areas are often laden with food particles, dust, debris and grime that may harbour harmful germs and pests. Ensure you move your oven and microwave to access the area behind it. Use baking soda or soda crystals to tackle stains. You can also use a long extendable handle to reach crannies easily.
8. Garbage Disposal
You may forget to clean and disinfect garbage disposal when sprucing up your kitchen. A clogged and dirty garbage disposal often linger unpleasant odours. So, it is good to run cold water and pour ice cubes and lemon peels down the disposal. Also, unclog the drain using the duo of baking soda and white vinegar.
9. Tiles and Grout Lines
Landlords strictly conduct the final rental inspection, especially bathrooms. Dull and dingy tiles and grout lines are the most common issues in rental properties. It is good to use safe and sound products, such as hydrogen peroxide or baking soda, to remove soap scum, hard water stains and mould and mildew.
Apply the cleaner and leave it for a few minutes. For gentle scrubbing, use an old toothbrush holder and clean it in a circular motion. Rinse and dry the surface. You can also outsource cheap vacate cleaning Perth service for time consuming and daunting tasks. They can help you get the full bond money back with ease.
10. Skirting Boards
Pass your rental inspection by leaving your skirting boards gleaming. The dust and grime buildup can ruin the look and feel of the property, leading to rental conflicts. To remove dust and grime, use a HEPA-filtered vacuum machine to trap allergens and dust particles. After that, wipe down with a mop or cloth using a white vinegar solution.
Things Tenants Forget to Clean When Moving Out
Wrapping Up
So, renters, are you ready for the final rental inspection? With the help of this guide, you can target every nook and cranny, leaving no traces of dirt, dust and stains behind. From ceiling fans to bathroom fixtures, fittings and grout lines, clean everything according to the pre approved checklist for a streamlined move out experience.