Move-out cleaning
Sara IdenforsIn this post, we will explore the importance of end-of-tenancy cleaning and share useful tips and a comprehensive checklist to make the process easier. By following our advice, you can ensure that you do not miss any important steps in the process!
Last edited on May 22, 2024
Carrying out an end-of-tenancy clean means cleaning and putting in order the home you are moving out of so that it is left in a condition that meets the requirements of the tenancy agreement, or to impress the buyer if you are selling the property. It is a big job, and doing it yourself requires a good guide and checklist. There is a lot to remember, and everything must be done thoroughly. Expect it to take time.
A cleaning company estimates that an end-of-tenancy clean of a one-bedroom apartment takes about 10 hours. The kitchen and bathroom take the longest. Try to work systematically and empty the home before you start. Cleaning with all your belongings still in the home is not a good idea; it will take much longer.
If you do not want to hire a cleaning company to do the job, you can claim a RUT deduction for end-of-tenancy cleaning; a reputable company will explain it and take care of everything for you. If the company wants to be paid in cash or cannot process a RUT deduction, you should check them carefully, as there is a high risk that everything is not being done properly and that the tax authorities may not have been informed. You do not want to contribute to anything like that!
But if you are going to clean yourself, try to think positively and a little outside the box. Here are some suggestions for things you can do. Invite your friends to a cleaning party. Arrange cleaning products and a list of what needs to be done for each room.
Assign each guest a room to start in and set a clear time—for example, we’ll be finished by 1 p.m. Then treat everyone to a more luxurious catered dinner outdoors as a thank-you for their help. Or get the family involved and agree to do one room per day; that makes it easier too. Or think of it as a few serious workout sessions—a giant home gym. Set the clock or start your fitness app and see what effect an end-of-tenancy clean has.
Finally, here is a general checklist for carrying out an effective end-of-tenancy clean
- Clean the oven both inside and out.
- Clean the stove, including behind it and the range hood.
- Wipe the inside and outside of the refrigerator and freezer.
- Clean the sink and drain / trap.
- Wipe down all surfaces, including kitchen countertops and cabinets.
- Wipe the baseboards
- Clean the windows.
- Defrost the freezer / clean behind it.
- Wipe down radiators and heating elements.
- Mop the floors.
- Clean fixed lighting fixtures
Bathroom
- Clean the toilet, including behind and around the cistern.
- Wipe down radiators and heating elements.
- Clean the bathtub or shower and wipe down the shower walls. Underneath as well. A shower curtain is generally not considered part of the home and belongs to the tenant.
- Clean the sink, including the water trap, and the mirror.
- Wipe down the trim.
- Wipe down all surfaces and clean the bathroom cabinets.
- Clean and disinfect the floor.
- Remove cobwebs from ceilings and corners.
- Wipe down the trim.
- Vacuum or sweep the floor.
- Wipe down surfaces, including bedside tables and lamps.
- Clean wardrobes inside and out.
- Clean the windows and windowsills.
- Wipe down radiators and heating elements.
Living room
- Vacuum or sweep the floor.
- Wipe down all surfaces.
- Clean windows and windowsills.
- Remove cobwebs from ceilings and corners, and wipe down the trim.
- Check and clean any fireplaces or stoves.
- Wipe down radiators and heating elements.
General areas
- Vacuum or sweep all floors.
- Wipe down all surfaces, including doors and windows.
- Clean the windows from both inside and outside if possible.
- Wipe down radiators and heating elements.
- Clean and vacuum any curtains or blinds.
General
- Replace burnt-out light bulbs.
- Check for and address any minor repairs.
- Empty and clean storage areas and basements if this is your responsibility.
- Take photos of each room after cleaning as proof.
- Photograph all rooms after cleaning.
Before finishing the moving-out cleaning, double-check with the landlord or real estate agent to ensure that you have met all requirements and expectations. Having a well-organized checklist helps you keep track of what needs to be done and ensures that you do not miss anything important.
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1. How long does it usually take to clean a one-room apartment when moving out?
Cleaning a one-room apartment when moving out takes approximately 10 hours, with the kitchen and bathroom taking the longest.
2. What is a good strategy for cleaning efficiently when moving out?
Empty the home before you start cleaning, work systematically, and use a checklist to ensure that nothing is missed.
3. How can you make moving-out cleaning more fun and efficient?
Invite friends to a cleaning party, organize cleaning products and tasks, or treat cleaning as a workout.