End of Tenancy Cleaning

End of Tenancy Cleaning

Apartment Renovation

When tenants move out of your rental property, the way they’ve maintained it according to the rental agreement becomes evident. 

This stage can often lead to disputes, particularly regarding the return of the security deposit. One way to avoid conflicts and ensure a smooth transition is by performing an end-of-tenancy cleaning. Keep reading to learn more!

What Is End-of-Tenancy Cleaning?

End-of-tenancy cleaning refers to a thorough, deep cleaning that tenants are expected to perform before they move out. 

This process covers everything from cleaning floors, furniture, and appliances to ensure that both the interior and exterior areas are spotless. The goal is to return the property to its original, move-in condition, ready to attract long-term tenants.

Why Is End-of-Tenancy Cleaning Important?

For tenants, conducting a proper end-of-tenancy cleaning is essential to ensure the full return of their security deposit. By restoring the rental to its original condition, they demonstrate that they have cared for the property during their stay.

If any repairs, such as wall painting or fixing furniture damage, are needed, tenants should take care of them before moving out. The key is that the property should look as pristine as it did when the tenants first moved in.

If the rental isn’t cleaned or repaired to the expected standards, landlords can deduct from the security deposit for cleaning or repairs. However, normal wear and tear cannot be charged to tenants, as it’s the landlord’s responsibility.

End-of-tenancy cleaning benefits both parties—tenants increase their chances of a full deposit refund, while landlords ensure the property is ready for the next tenants, avoiding conflicts over the deposit.

What’s the Appropriate Degree of Cleanliness?

Disputes over cleanliness are common when tenants move out. Since everyone has different standards, landlords need to set clear expectations. 

The cleanliness required should match the state of the rental when the tenant moved in—not exceed it—and help maintain the property’s condition

Landlords who conduct a move-in walkthrough can use photos and documentation to set clear guidelines for tenants. If tenants hire professional cleaners, these photos can serve as a reference, increasing the likelihood that they’ll receive the majority of their security deposit back.

What Is Normal Wear and Tear?

As tenants come and go, wear and tear is inevitable. Over time, your rental unit may develop minor scratches, faded paint, and small stains. 

These are normal and should not be charged to the tenant. Tenants are only responsible for damage that goes beyond normal wear and tear, such as large holes in walls or broken appliances.

How Clean Is Clean?

The definition of “clean” can vary widely, which often leads to disputes between landlords and tenants during the end-of-tenancy cleaning process.

A landlord or letting agent can only expect the tenant to return the property to the condition it was in at the start of the tenancy. This is why a pre-tenancy inventory or schedule of conditions is crucial.

An inventory typically includes a detailed description of the property’s condition before the tenant moved in and may also include photographs for clarity. 

Using this inventory as a reference ensures that the cleaning meets the landlord’s expectations and helps reduce the risk of any disputes over the return of the security deposit.

End-of-Tenancy Cleaning Coverage

A cleaning checklist can simplify the process for tenants and ensure nothing is missed. Providing this checklist also helps shorten the time the property is vacant, making it easier to show the unit to prospective tenants.

Before starting, it’s essential to have all cleaning tools ready: mops, microfiber cloths, cleaning products, and a vacuum. You can leave the kitchen for last, as it will require frequent trips to gather cleaning supplies and water.

Cleaning Checklist:

Walls, Doors, and Ceilings

  • During the property inspection, check walls for scuff marks and touch up with paint if needed.
  • Clean light switches and socket covers.
  • Wipe down door surfaces and handles.
  • Remove any cobwebs from the ceiling.

Fixtures and Furnishings

  • Dust picture frames, curtain rods, and lampshades.
  • Vacuum sofas and clean inside drawers and cupboards.
  • Wipe down tables and desks.
cozy-living-room-with-a-comfortable-couch-a-stylish-chair-and-a-sleek-television

Bathrooms

  • Remove hard water stains from bathtubs.
  • Clean the toilet with a brush, disinfectant, and gloves.
  • Scrub mold from grout with a toothbrush.
  • Use vinegar or lemon juice to polish sinks and faucets.

Kitchens

  • Clean countertops and degrease the oven.
  • Empty and clean the refrigerator.
  • Remove limescale from taps and sinks.
  • Disinfect garbage cans and mop floors.
  • Clean small appliances like toasters and microwaves.
  • Wipe down large appliances such as the washing machine and dishwasher.

Carpets

  • If carpets are dirty, consider steam-cleaning them after a good vacuum. Allow enough drying time to avoid any unpleasant odors.

Can Landlords Charge a Tenant for End-Of-Tenancy Cleaning?

No, landlords cannot charge tenants for end-of-tenancy cleaning. Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, landlords are prohibited from requiring tenants to arrange or pay for professional cleaning services when they move out.

Before the Act, landlords could include a clause in the tenancy agreement mandating professional cleaning before the tenant vacated. 

However, since the Act’s implementation, this practice is no longer allowed. Landlords can still expect tenants to return the property in a clean and reasonable condition, but they cannot require tenants to pay for cleaning services.

Bottom Line

A thorough end-of-tenancy cleaning not only helps ensure the return of a tenant’s security deposit but also prepares the rental for quick re-marketing. A spotless property will attract prospective renters more quickly, reducing vacancies and boosting your rental income.

Are you looking for a trusted property manager to handle your rental property and tenant relations? Contact us today at B&R Property Management to learn how we can help!

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