Common Vacate Cleaning Mistakes To Avoid

Many tenants in Perth lose their hard-earned bond money due to insufficient cleaning when vacating their leased properties. The residential tenancy laws in Western Australia clearly state that renters/tenants are obligated to spruce up the property and return it in a reasonably clean condition before the final move out.

Unfortunately, most people make silly mistakes when tackling dirt, dust and stains and forfeit their bond money. From missing out on kitchen appliances to leaving carpets dirty, these silly blunders can lead to rental disputes at the end of a tenancy.

If you want to move out smoothly, hire professionals for expert vacate cleaning Perth and pass your final inspection. They follow a proper checklist and proven techniques to leave no signs of dirt and grime behind.

However, if you are doing it yourself, avoid the following common vacate cleaning mistakes and clean a rental property like a pro.

Not Checking the Property Condition Report Before Cleaning

This is one of the most common mistakes when sprucing up your rental property for the final inspection.

A Property Condition Report is a document that represents the property’s actual condition when the renter moves it. According to the experts, tenants must review and complete it before starting a lease. This will help them address existing issues, such as mould stains, broken doors, etc.

As a responsible tenant, make sure you check the entry condition report once again and match it with the current condition before getting into the cleaning process.

Cross-check the report to determine what cleaning chores need to be performed in order to return the property to its original condition as it was at the start of the lease (except for fair wear and tear).

Quick Note: It is good to review the original condition report at least 5-7 weeks prior to your moving date and devise a cleaning strategy as per your specific requirements.

Cleaning Without a Standard Checklist

Vacate cleaning Perth differs from regular house cleaning. It is more intense and detailed and requires more precision. That’s why a professional inspects the property thoroughly and cleans every nook and cranny, adhering to the REIWA-approved checklist.

If you set out the cleaning process without a checklist and plan, you may miss out on important spots, such as cleaning walls and windows, which can later become the reason for rental conflict.

On the other side, following the standard checklist can help you cover every inch of the premises without any chaos.

Not Gathering Essential Cleaning Supplies

Do not underestimate the end of lease cleaning process because landlords have the right to deduct money from your bond to cover cleaning expenses.

Many people begin the process without stocking up on necessary cleaning supplies. If you want to transform a dirty living space into a sparkling glory, make sure you have the proper tools, such as:

• Microfiber cloths and dusters
• Scrub brushes and sponges
• A HEPA-filter Vacuum machine with adequate attachments
• Broom and dustpan
• Microfiber mop
• An extendable handle
• Non-bristled brushes
• Magic erasers
• Wipes and paper towels, etc

Quick Note: Instead of using a feature duster, remove dust and debris from fans, walls and other surfaces using highly absorbent microfiber cloths.

Using Chemically-Laden Cleaning Products

Prolonged exposure to store-bought cleaning solvents can be harmful to your respiratory system. Common ingredients in these products are Volatile Organic Compounds, such as ammonia, PERCs and sodium hydroxide, which can lead to various health problems, such as coughing, skin and eye irritation and asthma.

Many tenants use traditional cleaners with the sole aim of sprucing up the premises quickly, easily and effectively. This can release toxins into the environment and pollute air and water bodies.

Thus, it is good to use eco-friendly cleaning products, such as vinegar, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, castile soap, lemon, etc, to clean almost all surfaces with perfection.

Following Wrong Cleaning Techniques

Sometimes, people use a cleaning heck that might be common but can cause damage to the surface when you are removing stains. This can be noticed by your landlord and put your bond at stake. Make sure you follow these cleaning techniques for the best outcomes:

• Clean from top-to-bottom when tackling dust from ceiling fans, walls and windows
• Scrub stains in a circular motion for easy removal
• Always blot and never rub your delicate floor coverings.
• Create a ‘W’ pattern when vacuuming and an “S” pattern when wiping hard surfaces.
• Leave the product for a few minutes before wiping
• Never use harsh chemicals or vinegar on natural stone surfaces.
• Always dispose of bond cleaning waste to protect the environment.

Overlooking Air Filters, Vents and Ducts

This is also a common blunder when sprucing up your rental property for the last time. Since vents and ducts are located at a certain height, people forget to clean them.

However, air vents collect a lot of dust and dirt that can pollute the indoor air quality. Thus, it is imperative to clean them thoroughly.

You can also hire seasoned vacate cleaners in Perth because cleaning vents and ducts can be difficult without proper techniques.

Not Deep Cleaning Kitchen Appliances

Cleaning a microwave, oven or BBQ from outside is not enough when moving out. These appliances gather more dirt, grease and grime that can linger harmful germs if not treated properly.

Make sure you deep clean the racks, interiors and door handles of your appliances using eco-friendly products.

Note: Empty food items from your fridge, remove drawers and shelves and soak them in hot soapy water.

Neglecting Small Details

Tenants may remember vacuuming carpets and rugs but often forget small things. When preparing your rental property, make sure you pay attention to switchboards, light fixtures, doorknobs, sinks and faucets, tile grouts and window sills.

Note: Spray white vinegar solution and wipe down these surfaces.

You can also prefer hiring professionals because leaving dirty areas at the end of a tenancy allows landlord to deduct from a security deposit for cleaning. So, do proper research and book best professionals.

Wrapping Up

These are the most common vacate cleaning mistakes that can reduce the chances of getting your full bond back. Make sure you avoid these mistakes and spruce up your rental property using a proper cleaning checklist. It is good to hire professionals for a detailed vacate cleaning Perth and pass the rental inspection without any dispute.