When it comes to moving out of a rental property, one of the most important steps is ensuring that the place is thoroughly cleaned to meet the expectations of your landlord or property manager. The condition of the property at the end of your lease can significantly impact your bond refund. In Geelong, landlords and property managers often have high standards for cleanliness, which is why it’s essential to know exactly what’s expected during the cleaning process.
In this article, we’ll walk you through a detailed end of lease cleaning checklist specific to Geelong, so you can ensure your property is left in pristine condition and ready for inspection.
✅ 1. General Cleaning of All Rooms
Regardless of the type of property, the general cleaning of each room is a top priority. This includes wiping down all surfaces, vacuuming carpets, dusting, and ensuring that all areas are free from dirt and grime. Pay special attention to areas that tend to accumulate dust, such as light fixtures, baseboards, and vents.
Checklist for General Cleaning:
- Dust and wipe down all surfaces (shelves, countertops, windowsills).
- Clean light fixtures and ceiling fans.
- Vacuum and/or mop floors.
- Clean skirting boards and walls.
- Remove any cobwebs from corners and ceilings.
✅ 2. Kitchen Cleaning
The kitchen is one of the most important areas to focus on during end of lease cleaning. It’s often the room that receives the most scrutiny during inspections. Landlords expect appliances, countertops, and cabinets to be spotless, as well as the floor.
Checklist for Kitchen Cleaning:
- Clean and disinfect countertops and sinks.
- Wipe down all kitchen cabinets and drawers, both inside and out.
- Clean the oven, stove, and range hood, removing any grease or food residue.
- Clean and defrost the refrigerator (inside and out).
- Wash any remaining dishes or items left in the kitchen.
- Sweep and mop the floor to remove any dirt or stains.
✅ 3. Bathroom Cleaning
Bathrooms are another area where landlords expect a high level of cleanliness. Pay attention to the toilet, shower, sink, and mirrors. Any build-up of mold or soap scum should be removed, and the floors should be thoroughly cleaned.
Checklist for Bathroom Cleaning:
- Scrub the toilet, including under the seat and around the base.
- Clean the sink, taps, and mirror.
- Remove soap scum and lime scale from the shower or bathtub.
- Wipe down any shelving or cabinets.
- Clean and disinfect the floor, including corners and behind the toilet.
✅ 4. Carpet and Floor Cleaning
Carpets should be professionally cleaned to remove stains, dirt, and dust. If you have hardwood, tile, or laminate floors, make sure to sweep and mop them to a high standard. Don’t forget to clean behind furniture, as dust and dirt often accumulate in these areas.
Checklist for Carpet and Floor Cleaning:
- Vacuum carpets thoroughly, including corners and edges.
- If necessary, arrange for professional carpet cleaning to remove any deep stains.
- Sweep and mop hard floors.
- Clean underneath furniture and behind appliances.
✅ 5. Window and Glass Cleaning
Clean windows and glass surfaces are essential for a spotless rental property. Dirty windows can make the entire property look untidy, so it’s important to ensure that both the inside and outside of the windows are spotless. Don’t forget mirrors, glass shower doors, and any glass surfaces in the property.
Checklist for Window and Glass Cleaning:
- Clean both the inside and outside of windows.
- Wipe down mirrors and glass surfaces throughout the home.
- Clean glass shower doors and remove any water stains.
- Wipe down any glass tables or other surfaces.
✅ 6. Appliance Cleaning
Whether it’s the refrigerator, oven, or washing machine, appliances require special attention during the cleaning process. Make sure all appliances are clean and free of grime, grease, and food remnants.
Checklist for Appliance Cleaning:
- Clean the refrigerator inside and out, including shelves and drawers.
- Wipe down the oven, stove, and range hood.
- Clean the dishwasher (if applicable), removing any grime or build-up.
- Wipe down any small appliances such as the microwave or toaster.
✅ 7. Cleaning the Walls and Ceilings
While not always the first thing you think of, cleaning the walls and ceilings is essential. A simple dusting may not be enough to remove dirt, stains, or marks left behind during your time in the property.
Checklist for Wall and Ceiling Cleaning:
- Wipe down the walls to remove marks, dirt, or cobwebs.
- Clean any light fixtures or ceiling fans.
- Touch up any areas with scuff marks or stains, if needed.
✅ 8. Removal of All Personal Items
Before cleaning can take place, ensure that all personal items, furniture, and belongings are removed from the property. Left-behind items can create extra work for the cleaning team and may cause deductions from your bond.
Checklist for Removal of Personal Items:
- Remove all personal belongings, including furniture, clothes, and boxes.
- Dispose of any unwanted items, either by donating or taking them to the rubbish tip.
- Ensure that no personal items are left in the garden or backyard.
✅ 9. Outdoor Areas Cleaning
If your rental property has outdoor areas like a balcony, garden, or backyard, these should also be cleaned as part of your end of lease cleaning. This includes mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, and clearing away any rubbish or leaves.
Checklist for Outdoor Cleaning:
- Mow the lawn and trim any overgrown plants or bushes.
- Sweep patios, balconies, and paths.
- Remove any rubbish or debris from the yard.
- Clean outdoor furniture and wipe down surfaces.
✅ 10. Final Touch-Ups
After all the cleaning tasks are completed, take a step back and do a final inspection to make sure everything has been cleaned to the highest standard. If necessary, make any last-minute touch-ups to ensure the property looks pristine for inspection.
Checklist for Final Touch-Ups:
- Go through each room one last time to ensure everything has been cleaned.
- Double-check all appliances to ensure they’re spotless.
- Take out the trash and remove any remaining debris.
- Ensure that no cleaning products, rags, or tools are left behind.
✅ Conclusion
An end of lease cleaning checklist is essential for ensuring that your rental property is cleaned thoroughly and meets the expectations of your landlord or property manager. By following this checklist, you can make sure that all areas of the property, both inside and outside, are cleaned to the highest standards.
While this checklist can be useful for those attempting the cleaning themselves, it’s often more efficient and effective to hire professional bond cleaners in Geelong who specialize in end of lease cleaning. They have the experience, tools, and expertise to tackle even the most challenging tasks, ensuring that your bond is returned in full.