As you prepare to move out of your rental property in Victoria, it’s essential to understand the intricate details that contribute to a successful bond refund. At Cleaning Professionals, we’ve fine-tuned the move out cleaning process and are eager to share insights that will safeguard your deposit. This extensive guide highlights the top mistakes to avoid, complemented by robust, data-driven advice, ensuring your cleaning meets and exceeds expectations.
1. Timing and Scheduling: One of the most common oversights is underestimating the time it takes to perform a thorough move-out clean. According to industry data, a rushed cleaning job can lead to missed spots and unsatisfactory results, which are the main reasons for bond disputes. We recommend scheduling your cleaning service at least two weeks in advance. Moreover, planning the cleaning session a day before the final walk through gives you a buffer to address any overlooked areas or last-minute fixes.
2. Dealing with Colour and Light Variations: Natural and artificial lighting can dramatically affect how stains, dust, and general cleanliness appear. Ensure to inspect the property during different times of the day or consider using consistent artificial lighting to reveal hidden dirt or colour variations on walls and floors that might be invisible under natural light.
3. Detailed Cleaning of High and Hidden Areas: Vents, the top of shelves, and above kitchen cabinets are areas often skipped during routine cleaning. These spots accumulate dust and grime over time and can be easily spotted during an inspection. Our team uses industrial-grade equipment to reach and effectively clean these high areas, ensuring they match the cleanliness of more accessible surfaces.
4. Oven and Appliance Maintenance: Greasy oven tops and interiors are challenging. Nearly 25% of bond deductions are linked to the inadequate cleaning of kitchen appliances, per a Real Estate Institute of Victoria survey. Cleaning Professionals uses eco-friendly degreasers and specialized techniques to restore appliances to their best condition, focusing particularly on ovens, microwaves, and refrigerators.
5. Shower Grouts and Bathroom Details: Shower grouts, bathroom tiles, and drain holes require meticulous attention. Build-up in these areas not only affects the appearance but also hygiene, leading to potential health concerns that inspectors are keen to avoid. Our team employs high-efficiency steam cleaners that eradicate mold, lime, and soap scum without damaging the underlying surfaces.
6. Addressing Cobwebs and Dust Bunnies: Cobwebs in corners and dust bunnies under furniture can create an impression of neglect. During our cleaning sessions, special attention is given to these aspects, ensuring that all corners of your home are free from webs and dust accumulations.
7. Garden and Exterior Cleanliness: Outdoor areas like gardens, patios, and garages often determine the first impression of the property’s upkeep. Neglecting these areas can be detrimental to your bond refund. Cleaning Professionals not only focuses on interior cleanliness but also ensures that external spaces are pruned, cleaned, and tidied up, consistent with the property’s overall maintenance standards.
8. Pre-Clean Preparation: Making the house ready a day before the scheduled cleaning is crucial. This involves decluttering and removing personal items, which allows cleaners to work more efficiently and ensures no spot is missed. This preparation is often as vital as the cleaning itself, as it facilitates a more thorough job.
9. Photographic Documentation: Always keep a record of the property’s condition both before and after the cleaning. This visual evidence can be invaluable, particularly if disputes arise. At Cleaning Professionals, we provide comprehensive before-and-after photo documentation to support our clients in bond recovery.
10. Final Inspection Allowance: Allowing an extra day after the cleaning for the final inspection can be a game-changer. This additional time lets you or your agent do a thorough walkthrough and address any issues before the final assessment by the landlord or manager.
11. Expert Consultation: Consulting with professionals like Cleaning Professionals can provide insights into specific cleaning standards required for different properties. Our expertise in the Victoria real estate market allows us to offer tailored advice that aligns with both landlord expectations and bond refund policies.
By steering clear of these pitfalls and opting for a meticulous and professional cleaning service like Cleaning Professionals, tenants can significantly enhance their chances of securing a full bond refund. Our commitment to quality, combined with strategic cleaning practices, ensures your move-out process is not only smooth but also meets stringent lease conditions, solidifying our status as Melbourne’s premier cleaning service.
