Ending a tenancy and ensuring the rental property is left in a reasonably clean condition can be a stressful and challenging process for most renters. It is crucial to refer to the original condition report to ensure that all rooms and fixtures remain in the same condition, except for fair wear and tear. Adequately cleaning the rental property is essential to receive your bond back in full.
To fulfill this requirement, hiring professionals for end of lease cleaning Melbourne can be a practical solution. These experts possess the necessary expertise and knowledge to effectively sanitize residential properties at the end of a tenancy. However, it is important to note that hiring professionals is not the only option available. It is also possible to undertake the end-of-lease cleaning yourself.
Melbourne is renowned for its expensive housing, with monthly rental costs for a 1-bedroom house in the city center ranging from $350 to $500. Living in the suburbs of Melbourne can be more affordable, with average monthly costs ranging between $280 and $450.
For some individuals, the cost of professional end-of-lease cleaning in Melbourne, which can range from $350 to $1000, may exceed their budget. Therefore, it becomes crucial to determine whether you should tackle the end-of-lease cleaning yourself to avoid distress and the loss of your rental bond when terminating your lease agreement. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision and provide a DIY bond cleaning Melbourne checklist.
When Should You Hire Professional End of Lease Cleaners?
Every renter is expected to clean the rental property before vacating, and the complexity of the cleaning process depends on the duration of your tenancy and how well you maintained the property. If you have had a short tenancy and the property is reasonably clean, you may not require professional cleaners and can perform a deep clean on your own.
However, not all situations are as straightforward. To help you decide whether to hire professionals for end-of-lease cleaning in Melbourne, consider the following insights:
Prior to March 29, 2021, rental providers were prohibited from including terms for professional cleaning in rental agreements. However, certain amendments to rental laws have since allowed rental providers to request professional cleaning or cleaning up to professional standards in specific situations, such as:
- The rental property was professionally cleaned immediately before your tenancy, and you were informed of this.
- The property is heavily soiled, requiring professional assistance to restore it to its original clean condition.
- You have pets, such as dogs or cats, or any other pets that shed hair or make the surroundings messy.
Even if the conditions for hiring professional cleaners do not apply to your situation, you can still opt for a professional service for end-of-lease cleaning in Melbourne to ensure a complete refund of your bond. Additionally, seeking professional assistance will help reduce stress and make the moving-out process less challenging by avoiding last-minute disputes.
DIY End of Lease Cleaning Checklist
If circumstances permit, you can choose to perform the move-out cleaning in Melbourne yourself. Having a checklist is essential to streamline your work.
The checklist should include the following tasks:
Cleaning All Rooms
- Remove cobwebs
- Dust all lights, fans, and fixtures
- Clean cabinets, cupboards, shelves, drawers, and wardrobes
- Wipe mirrors and glass surfaces
- Clean windows and doors, including screens, tracks, and frames
- Spot clean walls and wipe baseboards
- Clean air vents
- Dust blinds and shades
- Wipe common points of contact
- Vacuum, sweep, and mop hard floors
- Vacuum carpets and rugs
- In addition to these general tasks for all rooms, perform the following specific tasks in these areas:
Cleaning the Kitchen
- Descale and wash faucets
- Degrease and clean the range hood
- Clean the oven, microwave, and dishwasher
- Wash the sink
- Scrub and clean tiles
- Wipe countertops, shelves, and slabs
- Unblock shower drains
- Cleaning the Bathroom
- Descale and clean the toilet, bathtub, faucets, and showerhead
- Remove hard water stains, soap scum, and grime from the shower screen or glass
- Unclog and sanitize the drains
- Wash tiles and grout lines
- Wash the sink
- Clean the bathroom floor
- Cleaning Outdoor Areas
- Vacuum outdoor furniture
- Wipe rails and screens
- Mow the lawn
- Wash the driveway and entryway
- Sweep the garage floor
Feel free to modify this DIY end-of-lease cleaning checklist to add or omit cleaning tasks as necessary. Make sure to adhere to professional standards while sanitizing the rental property. Exclude tasks that require professional assistance, such as upholstery cleaning, pest control, or wall washing.
Conclusion
Whether to do move-out cleaning yourself or hire professionals in Melbourne depends on various factors, such as the condition of the property, your budget, and your personal preference. Hiring professional end-of-lease cleaners in Melbourne can provide convenience and ensure that the property is cleaned to professional standards, increasing the likelihood of receiving a full refund of your bond. However, if you have a short tenancy and the property is in reasonably good condition, you may choose to undertake the cleaning yourself.
Performing a thorough DIY end-of-lease cleaning requires careful attention to detail and adherence to a comprehensive checklist. By following the suggested tasks and maintaining professional standards, you can successfully clean all areas of the property, including rooms, the kitchen, bathrooms, and outdoor areas. However, it’s important to note that certain tasks may require specialized expertise and equipment, such as upholstery cleaning or pest control, which are best left to professionals.
Before making a decision, consider the specific requirements outlined in your rental agreement and any amendments to rental laws. If professional cleaning is explicitly stated or if the property requires extensive cleaning, it is advisable to hire professional bond cleaners in Melbourne to ensure compliance and a smooth transition when ending your lease.
Remember, the goal is to leave the rental property in a clean and satisfactory condition to maximize the chances of receiving your bond back in full. Whether you choose to hire professionals or do it yourself, careful planning and thorough execution are key to a successful move-out cleaning process.
