At the end of a tenancy, there are several essential tasks that need to be completed. Understanding the process and knowing what gets cleaned and by whom is crucial for both tenants and landlords.
In this article, we will explore the end of tenancy process in Australia, and highlight the importance of hiring a professional cleaning service to ensure a smooth transition.
What Happens at the End of a Tenancy?
Let’s kick this off by detailing what actually happens (or rather, should happen) at the end of a tenancy. There are specific steps that both tenants and landlords need to follow. These steps typically include:
- Giving Notice: the tenant or landlord must provide the appropriate notice period as outlined in the tenancy agreement. This notice period allows both parties to prepare for the end of the tenancy.
- Property Inspection: before the tenant moves out, a property inspection is conducted to assess its condition. This inspection helps identify any damages or issues that need to be addressed.
- Cleaning and Repairs: the tenant is responsible for ensuring that the property is clean and in the same condition as when they moved in, taking into account normal wear and tear. Any repairs or damages beyond normal wear and tear are typically the tenant’s financial responsibility at covered by the initial deposit.
What Gets Cleaned at the End of a Tenancy?
When it comes to cleaning at the end of a tenancy in Australia, attention should be given to various areas of the property. Here are the key areas that should be addressed during the cleaning process:
- Floors: vacuuming carpets, mopping hard floors, and removing any stains or marks.
- Walls and Skirting Boards: wiping down walls to remove dirt, marks, and scuffs. Cleaning skirting boards to remove dust and grime.
- Windows and Window Coverings: cleaning windows inside and out, including frames and tracks. Dusting blinds or washing curtains may also be required.
- Appliances: thoroughly cleaning kitchen appliances, including the oven, stovetop, refrigerator, and dishwasher is necessary. Cleaning the filter of the dryer and removing lint is another example of what may be required as per the contract.
- Bathrooms: Scrubbing and disinfecting toilets, sinks, showers, bathtubs, and tiles. Cleaning mirrors and removing any soap scum or mould.
- General Cleaning: dusting surfaces, wiping down countertops, cleaning light fixtures, and removing cobwebs.
- Any other requirements specified in the tenancy agreement: and finally, any additional requirements that are otherwise specified in your tenancy agreement. These can vary, though most agreements tend to follow the above cleaning recommendations.
Who is Responsible for End of Tenancy Pest Control?
Pest control at the end of a tenancy is typically the responsibility of the tenant. However, this can vary depending on the terms of the tenancy agreement.
It is essential for tenants to report any pest issues during their tenancy and take appropriate measures to prevent infestations. If, however, pests are present at the end of the tenancy, the tenant may need to engage a professional pest control service to address the problem.
The Importance of Hiring a Professional Cleaning Service
Is it worth hiring a professional cleaning service at the end of your tenancy or handling it yourself? Here’s our two pence:
End of tenancy cleaning is a crucial task that requires attention to detail and thoroughness – which can be an unnecessary burden when you are already busy with the process of uprooting your life and moving to a new home.
Hiring a professional cleaning service can offer several benefits:
- Time and Efficiency: professional cleaners have the experience and expertise to efficiently clean the property, saving tenants valuable time and effort.
- Quality Results: they use specialised equipment, cleaning products, and techniques to ensure the property is spotlessly clean. This can significantly increase the chances of getting the security deposit back which is notoriously difficult at times.
- Compliance with Standards: professional cleaners are familiar with the requirements and standards of end of tenancy cleaning. In other words, they know what areas to prioritise and pay attention to, thus ensuring a thorough and satisfactory clean both for tenant and landlord.
- Peace of Mind: by hiring professionals, both tenants and landlords can have peace of mind knowing that the property will be cleaned to an exceptionally high standard. This minimises any disputes or disagreements regarding the cleanliness of the property. Everyone wins!
Conclusion
And that about sums it up! The end of tenancy process in Australia is a critical phase that requires proper planning, cleaning, and attention to detail. By understanding the steps involved and the areas that need to be cleaned, tenants can ensure a smooth transition while maximising the chances of getting their security deposit back (which is a fair enough want given the current economic climate).
Hiring a professional cleaning service is highly recommended as it offers convenience, efficiency, and high-quality results. Yes, you’ll eat into that deposit, but by entrusting the cleaning to the pros, tenants can focus on the (many) other important aspects of moving out, while landlords can rest assured that the property will be thoroughly cleaned and ready for the next tenant.
In conclusion: when it comes to the end of a tenancy, consider the benefits of hiring professionals for end of tenancy cleaning; makes life easier and everyone can win.
We hope that you’ve found this article helpful and now have a much clearer understanding of the end of tenancy process in Australia who is responsible and where you stand. Best of luck!
