End of Lease Cleaning for Walls, Floors, and Windows: Step by Step

Preparing a rental property is one of those crucial tasks that determine the fate of your hard earned bond money. When a lease ends, renters in NSW are expected to return the rented home in the same state as when they moved in, i.e tidy, hygienic and ready for the next tenant. This type of cleaning is known as end of lease cleaning or bond cleaning. It is imperative for passing the rental inspection and preventing bond deductions, disputes and penalties. Thus, the cleaning process goes beyond visible dust and debris. It is more about banishing grime, and gunk from hard to reach areas, nooks and crannies to leave a great impression on landlords.

While the entire process can feel overwhelming, approaching it with a streamlined plan can make a world of difference. It is always good to follow a top to bottom cleaning approach, covering every inch of the premises with perfection. When sprucing up the property, the main areas to focus on are the walls, windows, and floors.

Ensure you follow the right methods to prevent damage when cleaning these areas. Leaving scratches on walls, nasty streaks on windows, and excess water on floors could become the reason for rental disputes or disagreements. Fret not! Here in this step by step guide, we will discover the best end of lease cleaning tips for walls, floors and windows like a pro. Make sure you refer to the property condition report as you are not obligated for fixing pre existing dirt or damage. Be mindful!

1. What is the Importance of Cleaning Walls, Windows & Floors At the End of a Lease?

Under the Residential Tenancy Laws in NSW, landlords can withhold a part or the full bond money (equal to four weeks’ rent) to cover repair and cleaning related issues. Hence, property managers and landlords thoroughly inspect the property, paying more attention to walls, window frames, panes, sills, and flooring before releasing the bond money. Streaked window screens can ruin the landlord’s first impression, while scuffed walls and stained floors make the property look dull and dingy.

However, deep cleaning these areas can make the entire property look spotless, leaving a lasting impression on potential occupants. This indicates how well the property has been maintained throughout the lease. That’s why professionals include these areas when performing a top quality end of lease cleaning Sydney to help secure full bond back.

2. Start with Dusting Your Walls: Ceilings and Corners

You do not need any fancy tools to get rid of accumulated dust and debris from walls. First things first! Remove picture frames, decorative pieces and large furniture from the walls. Now, begin from the top by eliminating cobwebs, airborne contaminants, dust and grime from ceilings and mouldings. You may need a telescopic duster to get into nooks and crannies.

3. Remove Scuff Marks, Stubborn Stains and Adhesive Marks From Walls

Whether it’s pencil and crayon marks or nasty mould stains, walls bear a lot through different seasons. When preparing your rental property, ensure you follow these simple methods to clean all types of walls like a pro:

Spot Clean Satin Walls using Warm, Soapy Water

Flat, stain, or eggshell wall paint finishes are prone to damage from harsh chemicals and abrasive tools. So, use only dishwashing liquid and warm water to spot clean the walls. Use a sponge to gently remove stubborn stains, smudges, and scuff marks without causing damage to the surface. Do not use excessive water.

Diluted Vinegar for Gloss Finishes

These types of paint finishes can withstand acidic cleaners. You can spot clean your walls using a solution of white vinegar, warm water, and dishwashing liquid. Pour into a spray bottle and apply it to the affected area, such as mould, mildew, grime, and gunk. Make sure you wipe down with a damp sponge and let it dry completely.

Baking Soda for Oil Based Painted Walls

End of lease cleaning Sydney experts do not recommend using acidic or other harsh cleaners on oil based painted walls. Instead, use baking soda to get rid of cooking grease, grime and other stubborn stains. Gently scrub with a sponge or magic eraser to remove adhesive stains and grease like a pro. Always clean in a circular motion to achieve spotless results.

Tackle Mould With Hydrogen Peroxide

Use a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution to eliminate mould and mildew from finished and unfinished walls. Gently scrub your bathroom walls with a soft bristled brush and rinse it. Ensure you dry the walls properly.

Tip: Always conduct a spot test before applying any product to your walls to prevent damage.

4. Deep Clean Your Windows Inside and Outside

The dust, debris, bird droppings, and extreme weather conditions may make your windows look dully and dingy. This may affect the aesthetic appeal of your rental property. So, it is always good to deep clean your windows.

Start by removing accumulated dust and debris from window sills, tracks and frames using a damp microfibre cloth or an old toothbrush (for tight spaces). Next, spray the white vinegar and warm water solution and gently wipe down with a sponge from top to bottom. Be gentle and steady with your strikes. Ensure you clean the window frames, panes and sills. Next, run a rubber squeegee to remove excess water or soap residue. This will prevent unpleasant streaks. If outdoor windows are accessible, use a pressure washer to achieve spotless results.

Tip: Do not clean your windows on a sunny day as it would dry water marks or cleaning solutions quickly, leaving nasty streaks behind.

5. Restore the Beauty of Your Floors

Believe it or not! Maintaining spotless floors isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also about cleanliness. It is more about hygiene, a fresh and welcoming indoor environment. If you want to pass your rental inspection, keep the following floor cleaning tips in mind:

• Hardwood Floors:Avoid using water based solution as it can warp the wood. Instead, use a damp mop. For stains, use pH neutral cleaner for spotless shine.
• Marble Flooring:This luxurious floor type needs mild dishwashing soap and warm water for effective results. Also, seal it to maintain its gloss.
• Vinyl Floors:Do not use harsh chemical cleaners, as they can dull the surface. Instead, use warm, soapy water and a microfibre mop.
• Granite Floors:Again, use pH neutral cleaner when mopping the floors
• Laminate:Remember that excess water can cause bubbling. So use a damp mop to remove stains.
• Tile Floors:Baking soda can do wonders. Also, clean the grout lines using the baking soda paste.

Tip: It is always good to hire professionals for a guaranteed end of lease cleaning Sydney if you don’t know how to get started. They can help you secure bond money without any dispute.

Infographic: How to Clean Walls, Floors & Windows Before Moving

Wrapping Up

Adhering to cleaning responsibilities at the end of a tenancy can help you pass the rental inspection with ease. Hopefully, this article has helped you understand the right way to deep clean walls, windows and floors the right way. This will enhance the overall look and feel, leaving a great impression on your discerning landlord.