At the end of tenancy, landlords are responsible for ensuring the property looks new and is ready to rent to new tenants. This includes everything from cleaning, repairs, maintenance, inventory checklists, and making sure the property is up to housing and safety standards.
With so many aspects to consider, it can be a little overwhelming for landlords to know how to carry out this process from start to finish. Thankfully, Keyrenter Premier has a complete guide to end-of-tenancy cleaning for you! This post will help you understand how to clean your property so that it is ready to advertise!
What Is the End of Tenancy Cleaning?
So what really is an end-of-tenancy cleaning?
In general, end-of-tenancy cleaning involves deep-cleaning everything! From carpets, ovens, and appliances, to bathrooms, mopping, and dusting. You should also consider looking into the amenities that new tenants look for.
Essentially, you want the rental to be as clean as possible with everything in working condition. Not only is this simply good hygienic practice, but it is much more appealing for new potential renters.
What Is the Expected Level of Cleanliness?
Typically, tenants are expected to clean the property regularly during the course of their tenancy. However, there are times when they may fail to do this, and it can result in dirt and grime build-up, as well as normal wear and tear.
Normal wear and tear simply refer to the deterioration of a unit caused by daily use. Some examples of this include, chipped paint, cracked windows, frayed carpets or furniture, and broken fittings.
While this wear and tear of the unit is to be expected, it is your responsibility to ensure these things are all taken care of and returned to their original condition.
In the case that something is more damaged than average wear and tear, you may claim the security deposit from the tenant who is moving out. Depending on the cost of the damage, tenants risk losing a portion of or even the entire amount of the security deposit.
The tenant’s responsibility is to ensure that the property is in a similar condition to how it was when they moved in. This includes removing trash or any unwanted items.
What Should an End of Tenancy Cleaning Include?
Before you start cleaning, you will want to have copies of the move-in checklist and the move-in inspection report, as well as photos of the property.
This checklist should also include a written explanation of the condition of each part of the property. Referring back to this checklist will help you determine what items need replacing or repairs.
You have three options when deciding who will clean the property. Either the tenant themselves can do it, you do it yourself, or you can hire a professional cleaner.
Should you or the tenant decide to clean the property, you should make sure that either of you has a thorough checklist, such as the one provided below, as well as the necessary cleaning equipment. This includes a high-powered vacuum cleaner, cleaning chemicals, steam cleaners, and more.
Here are the things to keep in mind when cleaning the property:
- Clean the walls, doors, and ceilings
- Check for stains on the walls and wipe them clean
- Polish the electrical sockets and light switches
- Remove cobwebs from the ceilings and every corner
- Wipe the door surfaces, including the hinges and the top of the doors
- Wipe and polish the windows
- Dust and clean the windowsills
- Bathrooms
- Make sure that the entire bathroom is clean and spotless
- Polish the basin, taps, and fittings
- Remove water stains from bathroom tiles, bathtubs, sinks, and toilets
- Scrub the toilet and sink clean
- Clean and polish the shower
- Dust off the exhaust fan
- Unblock the drains
- Kitchens
- Clean and polish all kitchen appliances, making sure that grease and stains are removed
- Wipe down the backsplash, worktops, and countertops
- Empty the cabinets and clean all plates, bowls, cups, and utensils
- Clean and unclog the kitchen sink
- Clean the refrigerator inside out
- Floors and Carpets
- If the flooring is a carpet, make sure that any stains are removed
- Vacuum the carpet to get rid of the dust
- If the flooring is not a carpet, make sure to clean and polish the floor as needed
- Remove any stains on the floor
- Furniture and Fixtures
- Dust and clean the tops of wardrobes and cabinets
- Wipe and polish the surfaces of the tables and desks
- Vacuum the sofa
- Remove cobwebs and dust from lighting fixtures
- Outdoor
- Mow the lawn
- Empty the garbage bins
- Take away all trashes
Can Landlords Charge a Cleaning Fee?
Unless you specifically set aside a fee in the lease, Arizona landlords cannot charge a cleaning fee or deduct it from the tenant’s security deposit. You can only withhold from their security deposit for any damages they caused to the property.
Bottom Line
If you have cleaned your property while following our guidelines here, your property should be ready to rent to a new tenant!
However, if you and your tenant do not have the time or resources to clean the property, we would recommend hiring a cleaning company. The professionals here at Keyrenter Premier have plenty of connections who have a great reputation, and they can help you find a service that you trust.
If you are also looking for a property management company, don’t hesitate to reach out to us! We handle everything from end-of-tenancy cleaning to marketing your property for new renters, to routine maintenance and repairs, and more!