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End of Lease Cleaning Checklist - How to Leave Your House Sparkling Clean

Are you approaching the end of your lease and want to ensure you get your bond back? One of the essential tasks is making sure your rental property is left in impeccable condition. A thorough end of lease cleaning is not only important for a smooth transition but also safeguards your deposit and maintains a good relationship with your landlord.

This detailed end of lease cleaning checklist will guide you step-by-step through the process, helping you leave your house sparkling clean and stress-free.

Why End of Lease Cleaning Matters

Landlords and real estate agents have high cleanliness standards when it comes to vacating tenants. To secure the full return of your rental bond, it's crucial to present the home in the same condition as at the start of your tenancy. Comprehensive move out cleaning not only helps you avoid bond deductions but also guarantees a positive reference for future rentals.

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Preparing for End of Lease Cleaning

Before diving into the cleaning process, a little preparation goes a long way. Here's what to do:

Collect supplies: All-purpose cleaners, disinfectants, sponges, scrubbers, microfiber cloths, vacuum, mop, bucket, and any specialty products.
Check your tenancy agreement: Review the required cleaning obligations to meet your landlord's expectations.
Photograph property condition: Take pictures before and after end of lease cleaning as evidence.
Remove all personal belongings: Make sure the property is empty before you start deep cleaning.

Comprehensive End of Lease Cleaning Checklist

Let's break down your exit cleaning task room by room to ensure nothing is missed.

General Areas (Bedrooms, Living Rooms, Hallways)

Dust all surfaces: Wipe shelves, skirting boards, window sills, doors, and handles.
Clean light fixtures and switches: Remove any cobwebs, dust, and stains.
Spot clean walls: Address scuff marks, finger smudges, and stains. Use gentle cleaning agents to avoid paint damage.
Vacuum and mop floors: Give carpets a deep clean or steam if required. Mop hard floors thoroughly.
Clean wardrobes and cupboards inside out: Wipe shelves and internal surfaces, remove all personal items.
Windows and tracks: Wash glass, clean frames, tracks, and remove any dust or built-up debris.
Remove cobwebs: Check cornices, corners, and ceilings.
Clean mirrors: Polish all mirrors until streak-free.

Kitchen Cleaning

Oven and stovetop: Remove racks, soak in degreaser, scrub oven (including glass door), and clean stovetop controls and surfaces.
Rangehood and exhaust fans: Clean filters and exterior surfaces to remove grease.
Dishwasher: Run a cleaning cycle, wipe seals and filters.
Sink and taps: Descale and polish; remove food debris from drains.
Cupboards and drawers inside out: Clear crumbs, wipe shelves, doors, and handles.
Benchtops: Disinfect and scrub all kitchen benches.
Fridge (if included): Defrost, wipe inside and out, deodorize, and clean all removable trays.
Backsplashes and tiled areas: Clean grout, remove grease and splashes from tiles.

Bathroom and Laundry Areas

Toilet: Deep clean inside and out, including base and behind the toilet.
Shower and bathtub: Scrub tiles, screens, taps, door tracks, and remove soap scum and limescale.
Sink and vanity: Clean thoroughly; check under and behind for hidden dust and debris.
Mirrors and glass surfaces: Polish for a crystal clear finish.
Exhaust fans: Dust and wipe to ensure they are free from debris.
Cupboards and drawers: Remove all personal items, wipe shelves and surfaces.
Washing machine/tub: Clean and disinfect if included in the rental.
Floors: Mop floors, pay special attention to corners and grout lines.

Outdoor and Utility Spaces

Balconies, patios, and verandahs: Sweep, mop, and remove cobwebs or dirt build-up.
Garage: Remove all belongings, sweep out debris and oil stains.
Yard/garden: Mow the lawn, trim edges, remove weeds, and tidy up green waste.
Bins: Empty, wash, and deodorize all rubbish and recycling bins.

Specialized Cleaning Tasks

While the above covers the basics of most move out cleaning checklists, your landlord may expect extra attention in certain areas.

Carpet steam cleaning: This is a standard requirement in many leases, especially for homes with pets or kids.
Pest control: If you had pets, you might need to provide evidence of professional flea treatment.
High windows: Some agencies insist even exterior windows (within reach) are cleaned.
Wall washing/paint touch-ups: Attend to stubborn marks, and if required, repaint small scuffs.
Air conditioning filters: Remove and clean filters to improve airflow and hygiene.

Tips for Effective End of Lease Cleaning

Start early: Don't wait for the last minute. Spread your cleaning over a few days if possible.
Work top to bottom: Always begin with higher surfaces and work downward; dust and dirt will fall as you go.
Enlist help: Family, friends, or professional end of lease cleaners can make the task manageable.
Use the right products: Gentle products can prevent damage to surfaces. Always check manufacturer instructions for appliances and fittings.
Check property inventory: Ensure all keys, remotes, and fixtures provided at the start are returned in good clean condition.

Professional End of Lease Cleaning vs. DIY

Many renters debate whether to go the DIY cleaning route or to hire professional end of lease cleaning services. Here are the pros and cons:

DIY Cleaning:
- Pros: Cost-effective, greater control, personal satisfaction.
- Cons: Time-consuming, risk missing hidden areas, may lack equipment for steam cleaning or pest control.
Professional Move Out Cleaners:
- Pros: Bond-back guarantee (in many cases), high-standard cleaning, saves time, comes with specialist tools.
- Cons: More expensive, less flexible scheduling during peak periods.

If you choose a cleaning company, always check their references, insurance, and guarantee policies. A good exit cleaning company should provide a checklist and invoice you can show your property manager.

Essential Checks Before Your Final Inspection

Before the exit inspection, double-check these move-out cleaning essentials:

No missed spots: Re-inspect every room with good lighting.
Smells fresh: Let in fresh air, use gentle air fresheners if needed.
No rubbish left: Dispose of all rubbish, compost and recycling from inside and outside.
All keys and remotes returned: Double-check that everything provided at handover is present and clean.

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Frequently Asked Questions About End of Lease Cleaning

1. How clean should a house be at the end of a lease?

The home should be as clean as when you moved in, minus reasonable wear and tear. You're responsible for comprehensive cleaning of all surfaces, appliances, and fixtures.

2. Can I get my bond back if I clean myself?

Yes, if you follow a bond cleaning checklist and reach the standard required in your rental agreement, there should be no issue with bond refund. Document your efforts with before and after photos.

3. Is professional steam cleaning of carpets required?

Many lease agreements require professional carpet steam cleaning, especially if pets or significant stains are present. Check your contract.

4. How long does end of lease cleaning take?

Expect move out cleaning to take a full day for an average two-bedroom apartment, longer for larger homes.

5. What if I miss something?

Agents may grant a short window for touch-ups. Failure to resolve cleaning issues can result in partial bond deduction.

Final Thoughts: How to Leave Your House Sparkling Clean

A successful end of lease cleaning is all about detail and thoroughness. By following this detailed end of tenancy cleaning checklist, you'll minimize disputes with your landlord and maximize your chances for a full bond return. Whether you decide to do it yourself or hire professional end of lease cleaners, careful planning, and attention to detail are the keys to leaving your home in impeccable condition.

Ready to move? Print this checklist, plan ahead, and you'll leave your house sparkling clean for the next tenant - and your peace of mind!