Key Areas Renters Often Forget During Bond Cleaning

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Key Areas Renters Often Forget During Bond Cleaning

By : Kate Windle

Disputes over bond refunds are common in Sydney, as renters often lose their security deposit due to poor cleaning standards. The residential tenancy laws in NSW clearly articulate the cleaning clauses and responsibilities to foster a healthy and transparent landlord relationship. Under this, renters are legally obligated to return in the same condition as it was at the start of the tenancy. Overlooking minor details can lead to disappointing bond deductions.

As landlords meticulously examine every nook and cranny, it becomes essential to maintain strict standards according to the pre-approved cleaning checklist. From kitchen appliances to bathroom fixtures and fittings, windows and walls, ensure you focus on every single detail for a hassle-free final rental inspection.

Here is a list of key areas renters/tenants often forget during bond cleaning, leading to unwanted disagreements and bond deductions. It includes all the little details that can make a big difference when moving out of your lease.

Let’s Get Started!

1. Ceiling Fans and Blades

Ceiling fans are the most overlooked spot in any leased apartment or house due to their height. However, the blades tend to accumulate a thick layer of dust bunnies, debris and grime, contributing the indoor air pollution. That’s one of the reasons why professionals start from the top (ceiling) for a professional end of lease cleaning Sydney. You’ll need a microfiber cloth or telescopic duster to clean your ceiling fan. You can also use a pillowcase to fetch loose dust from fan blades. This will prevent the particles from spreading onto the floor.

2. Light Fixtures and Fittings

Dust can build up inside light fixtures and fittings, affecting the indoor lighting during the rental inspection. When moving out, make sure you deep clean the fixtures and fittings thoroughly. First, turn off the power and use a step ladder or stool to access the spot.

Take a microfiber cloth to remove accumulated dust and debris. For stains and gunk, wipe down the surface using a cloth dampened in a mild dishwashing liquid solution. Buff-dry the fixtures to prevent unwanted streaks.

Tip: Allow the bulbs to cool completely before you begin cleaning.

3. Inside the Cabinets and Drawers

young man cleaning a cabinet

Cleaning kitchen cabinets and drawers from the outside won’t impress your landlord. It is important to clean them from the inside. Over time, dust, spills, splatters and crumbs can collect in these spaces. Leaving them dirty can breed harmful germs or mould growth, leading to permanent structural damage.

Start the process by removing all items from cabinets and drawers. Next, remove loose debris with a microfiber cloth. You can also use white vinegar and warm water spray to dislodge gunk and grease from the surface.

Tip: Use an old toothbrush to access nooks and crannies for spotless results.

4. Window Sills and Tracks

Windows are one of the key areas in a move-out cleaning session. However, people often forget about the sills and tracks. These rigid areas often collect dirt, grime, gunk and dead bugs, making your room look dirty. Moudly window sills and tracks can lead to penalties in your bond amount.

End of lease cleaning Sydney professionals recommend using a handheld vacuum cleaner with a crevice brush attachment to clean window sills and tracks. It can effectively fetch dirt and grime in no time. For stubborn stains, mix equal parts of vinegar and warm water and spray on the sills.

5. Behind Large Appliances

There is no denying that kitchen cleaning is one of the most challenging parts of a routine clean-up session. Many renters pay attention only to the kitchen appliances- inside and outside but forget about them. Over time, these spots can accumulate grease, grime, and crumb, making them a breeding ground for pests and lethal germs.

So, moving your oven, fridge, microwave and dishwasher to clean grime and gunk is good. You can use castile soap solution or soda crystals to tackle stubborn stains without causing any damage.

Tip: Avoid using excess water. Instead, use a dry duster or a dampened cloth when cleaning behind your appliances.

6. Baseboards and Trim

Impress your landlord or property manager during the rental inspection by leaving your baseboards and trim spotless. The accumulated dust and grime can ruin your home’s overall look and feel, leading to bond deductions. To clean the baseboard, use a vacuum machine with a HEPA filter to catch allergens and gunk. You can also clean the area with a damp cloth or spot clean using a vinegar solution.

7. Garbage Disposals

These are the most neglected areas during bond cleaning. If you witness foul smells or blockages, clean them immediately. All you need to do is run cold water and grind ice cubes and lemon peels inside the disposal. This will banish unpleasant odours and debris. You can also unclog the drain using baking soda and white vinegar.

8. Bathroom Tiles and Grout Lines

Did you know landlords strictly inspect the bathroom fixtures and fittings? When cleaning a spa bath, showerhead, toilet and counters, make sure you pay special attention to the bathroom tiles and grout lines. Here is a quick cleaning guide:

  • Apply baking soda paste to the surface and gently scrub the area with a brush
  • Use 3 per cent hydrogen peroxide to remove mould and mildew from grout lines.
  • Leave it for a few minutes before scrubbing.
  • Gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush
  • Rinse and dry to prevent further growth.

9. Other Key Areas

It is always good to hire professionals for a budget end of lease cleaning Sydney. They follow a pre-approved checklist to cover every nook and cranny. This includes the walls, window blinds, switchboards, patio area, floors behind heavy furniture and much more. With their assistance, you can relax and prepare for your move-out journey.

What are the Key Spots Renters Forget During Bond Cleaning?

Areas Renters Often Forget During Bond Cleaning

Wrapping up

Cleaning a rental property at the end of the tenancy requires strategic planning and an optimistic mindset. Hopefully! This guide has helped you consider the most overlooked areas when preparing your rental property for the final inspection. It will help you pass the final inspection while securing your bond money.