When it comes to moving out of a rental property, one of the most important tasks is ensuring the place is spotless. A thorough cleaning not only guarantees the return of your deposit but also helps maintain a good relationship with your landlord tenancy cleaning. However, many tenants make common mistakes during the cleaning process that could cost them. In this blog post, we will highlight the top 10 tenancy cleaning mistakes and offer tips on how to avoid them.
1. Ignoring the Fine Details
It’s easy to overlook small details, but they can make a huge difference. Dusting light fixtures, wiping down door handles, and cleaning vents may seem trivial, but these spots accumulate dirt and grime over time.
Tip: Create a checklist that covers every corner of the property, including high-touch areas like switches and handles.
2. Not Following the Cleaning Checklist
Some tenants skip the recommended cleaning tasks outlined in their lease agreement, assuming their cleaning will suffice. These agreements often include specific expectations, such as deep cleaning carpets, washing windows, or cleaning appliances.
Tip: Review your tenancy agreement carefully before cleaning, ensuring you follow all guidelines for a smooth inspection.
3. Using the Wrong Cleaning Products
Different surfaces require different cleaning methods. Using the wrong cleaning products, such as harsh chemicals on delicate surfaces, can cause damage, leading to further costs.
Tip: Invest in the right products for each task. For example, use a mild cleaner for wooden floors and an oven cleaner for stubborn stains on appliances.
4. Overlooking the Kitchen Appliances
The kitchen is one of the most used areas in any home, and appliances can accumulate grime quickly. Often, tenants forget to clean under and behind appliances or fail to clean the inside of the fridge, oven, and microwave properly.
Tip: Take extra time to clean inside the fridge, oven, and microwave, as well as behind and under appliances, where dust and crumbs tend to gather.
5. Not Cleaning Carpets or Floors Thoroughly
If your rental agreement specifies that you should leave the floors spotless, make sure you thoroughly clean carpets and floors. Stains or dirt on the floors may result in deductions from your security deposit.
Tip: Vacuum carpets thoroughly, use a carpet cleaner for any stains, and mop the hard floors. If necessary, consider hiring a professional cleaning service for a deep clean.
6. Missing Out on the Bathroom
Bathrooms are often one of the most neglected areas during a tenancy cleaning. Grime, soap scum, and hard water stains on tiles, showerheads, and mirrors are easy to overlook.
Tip: Scrub tiles, wipe down mirrors, and disinfect toilets and sinks. Pay close attention to any mold buildup and remove it with a proper mold-removal product.
7. Not Removing All Personal Items
Even the smallest personal items, such as clothing or toiletries, can give the impression that the property is not fully vacated. This is a common mistake that can hinder the inspection process.
Tip: Make sure to remove all personal belongings, including items hidden in drawers, closets, and under sinks. Clean these areas thoroughly once everything is cleared out.
8. Forgetting to Clean the Walls
Walls often accumulate marks, smudges, or dust over time, which can be easy to miss when you’re in a rush. However, failing to clean the walls can be a major oversight that your landlord will notice.
Tip: Use a gentle cleaner and a microfiber cloth to wipe down walls and remove any marks. For stubborn stains, try using a mild solution of soap and water.
9. Rushing Through the Clean
Many tenants attempt to clean the property quickly to meet the move-out deadline. Rushing can lead to missed spots, ineffective cleaning, and a less-than-ideal final result.
Tip: Allow yourself enough time for each cleaning task. Start early, and don’t try to clean everything in one go. A rushed job is often more noticeable during the inspection.
10. Failing to Hire Professionals When Needed
Sometimes, cleaning a property to the highest standard requires professional help, especially when the task is too large or time-consuming. Many tenants avoid hiring professional cleaners to save money, but this can often lead to subpar results.
Tip: If you’re short on time or don’t feel confident in your cleaning abilities, consider hiring a professional cleaning service. They will ensure that your property meets all the necessary standards and help secure your deposit.
Conclusion
Avoiding these common tenancy cleaning mistakes can save you time, money, and hassle when moving out of a rental property. A deep clean is crucial for getting your deposit back and leaving a positive impression with your landlord. Whether you handle it yourself or hire professionals, make sure to approach the job thoroughly and with attention to detail. Happy cleaning, and good luck with your move!
