Property Management Blog

Once your renters have moved out, you need to have an end-of-tenancy cleaning. This procedure encourages tenants to return the rental property the same way it was handed over to them by the landlord.

Performing an end-of-tenancy cleaning is good for both landlord and tenants since it can prevent disputes and protect your property. SGI Property Management Phoenix has written this article to help you conduct an end of tenancy cleaning effectively.

Defining End of Tenancy Cleaning

End of tenancy cleaning refers to the cleaning of a rental thoroughly before moving out. It includes cleaning up all the rental unit areas, including furnishing, walls, and carpets. The purpose of this cleaning is to make your rental property appear the way it was presented before the renter moved in.

Purpose of End of Tenancy Cleaning

If there are any changes done by the tenants, such as repainting the unit to another color or repairs that need to be undertaken, then they will need to attend to them. The rental property’s condition must be similar to its original state before renting it again.

As a landlord, you make deductions if the resident fails to turn over the unit in its previous condition. You may charge the renter for cleaning and repair fees since damages need to be scheduled for repair. 

Level of Cleanliness

As a landlord, your standards of cleanliness may vary from the renters. This means what is clean to tenants may not look clean to you, resulting in potential disagreements. So, you should only expect the tenants to turn over a rental unit in the same condition it was presented. 

A helpful way to avoid conflicts is for you to include a walk-through inspection with a tenant before the resident moves in. It will be easier to review if any changes or damages need to be addressed if an inspection was performed before the renter moved in.

Defining Normal Wear and Tear

Over time, your rental property may show damages and this is normal since signs of occupancy will show. 

You can expect scuffing on the floor, stains on some furnishing, and scratches. Wall paint may also appear faded over time and even cabinet hardware will not look as sparkling as when they were new.

For normal wear and tear damage, you cannot deduct your tenant’s security deposit or charge any extra fees.

Charging End of Tenancy Cleaning

Previously, landlords could request renters for professional cleaning before they transfer out of the rental. However, the Tenant Fees Act 2019 now forbids landlords to include this clause in the lease agreement.

Coverage of End of Tenancy Cleaning

Having an end-of-tenancy cleaning checklist is a good tip to ensure that all areas are attended to. A checklist also guides renters on where to focus their cleaning efforts. If the tenants hire cleaners, the list can be a point of reference.

As a landlord, you can review the results of an end-of-tenancy cleaning through the list and check if there are areas that were not included. If everything was covered in the list, then the landlord can schedule in-person tours of the rental unit.

Cleaning walls, doors, and ceilings

●  Inspect the wall markings and decide if simple cleaning or paint retouching is required

●  Wipe the light switches and socket areas clean

●  Rub the door knobs, including the door frames with a clean cloth to remove dust

●  Brush away the cobwebs from the ceiling

●  Clean window sills and blinds

Cleaning fixtures and furnishings

●  Dust off the mirror’s top areas and curtain rods

●  Remove the dust from the picture frames, lampshades, and light bulbs

●  Vacuum the sofa, and clean the cushions

●  Clear out the inside clutter of drawers and cupboards

●  Wipe the desk and table surfaces with a clean cloth

Cleaning Bathrooms

●  Use vinegar or lemon juice to polish basins and taps

●  Remove hard water stains from bathtubs

●  Disinfect the toilet

●  Brush the molds stuck to the tile grout

●  Wipe the extractor fans to get rid of dust

Cleaning Kitchens

●  Run a clean cloth over the kitchen countertops

●  Degrease the oven

●  Remove the items inside the refrigerator before doing a cleanup

●  Disinfect trash containers

●  Mop the floors

●  Ensure that dishware and cutlery are cleaned before storing

●  Clean blenders, toasters, and kettles

●  Get rid of limescale on kitchen taps

Cleaning Carpets

As one of the most visible furnishings in the room, carpets can be a point of friction for landlords and tenants. Steam cleaning is required for proper cleaning and you can rent this out or hire a professional cleaner to attend to this task.

You need to move out all the furniture so the entire carpet can be cleaned up. It takes plenty of hours for the carpet to dry off so it is recommended to leave this task at the end.

Cleaning Outside areas

To maintain your property’s curb appeal, it is crucial to clean the outside areas. Also, an attractive curb appeal can raise interest among potential residents. Make sure that no trash is lying around, get rid of weeds, and sweep away fallen leaves. Performing a jet wash can also thoroughly clean stubborn dirt on the ground.

Bottom line

Practicing end-of-tenancy cleaning is beneficial for landlords and tenants. A renter can conduct cleaning to ensure that the security deposit refund is intact, while a landlord can be reassured that the rental unit will be treated properly and returned in excellent condition.

You can also hire a property management company to oversee your rental operation, which includes ensuring that a walk-through inspection and end-of-tenancy cleaning are conducted.

Are you looking for a reliable property manager? Contact SGI Property Management Phoenix today!