Inside End Of Lease Clean: Key Areas Real Estate Agents Focus On

As a tenant, your end of lease cleaning goals are focused on getting your bond deposit back, but for the landlord the aim is to protect the property’s long term value. Hence, their focus isn’t random; it’s guided by areas that show wear, tear and cleanliness most clearly. So, it’s not enough to just tidy up the obvious areas. You need to look deeper and check everything from the inside of ovens, to the corners of skirting boards. This way, you prepare more effectively and reduce the risk of losing a part of your bond.

This article will walk you through key areas that real estate agents prioritise during a final inspection, so that you know exactly what to focus your efforts on. For tenants wanting reliable end of ease cleaning Melbourne services, understanding these agent approved checkpoints can help you choose the right services that are able to deliver the kind of detail required. By aligning your efforts with the agent’s perspective, you level the playing field and have better chances of a full bond recovery.

1. All Kitchen Corners Plus the Hidden Ones

It’s common knowledge that the kitchen is the most heavily used place in a home. Hence, your agent will scrutinise the area pretty well. It’s not enough to just give the benchtops a quick wipe; agents will be opening the cupboards, pulling out drawers and checking inside of appliances. So, you’ll need to clean all of these. Even the oven, stovetops, rangehood and its filters are common grease buildup hotspots; that will require a thorough clean.

If your property appliances list includes fridges and dishwashers, you’ll need to pay attention to them as well. Food residues, watermarks and mould inside of the seals; all these need to be dealt with properly. The key takeaway here is: the kitchen requires a guaranteed end of lease cleaning Melbourne level of attention. If you leave behind even a small patch of grime, the agent will have grounds to make deductions on your bond.

2. Detailed Cleaning is Important In Bathrooms

Bathrooms are important during inspections because they show how clean and well maintained a place is. Agents will pay close attention to taps, shower screens, tiles and grouting. In this area, soap scum and mould are usually two things that tenants forget to check and deal with. They tend to occur more in the corners and under silicone seals; so keep an eye out for these.

Of course toilets, sinks and mirrors need to be spotless, but drains and exhaust fans too come under deep scrutiny. Bathrooms that appear shiny but have lingering odours or traces of mould in them are sure to raise red flags. Investing time into scrubbing and deodorising can make a major difference to how clean the bathroom feels.

3. Condition and Cleanliness of Floors and Carpets

Whether your rental has tiles, hardwood or carpet, floors always play a critical role in the final inspection. If professional steam cleaning is a condition of the lease, agents will expect the carpets to be cleaned accordingly. They will also check for any stains, dirt or lingering pet hair.

For hard floors, mopping alone isn’t enough. Skirting boards, corners and edges must be dust and scuff marks free. Professional cleaners utilise sophisticated equipment, to remove dirt and grime that regular mops frequently miss. For many tenants, scheduling a professional service is the most convenient method to ensure that this level is met.

4. Thoroughly Cleaned Windows, Blinds and Tracks

Clean windows instantly lift the appearance of a property, which is why agents make a point of checking them closely. It’s not just the glass that matters, window sills, tracks and flyscreens, are also thoroughly checked. Dust, cobwebs and insect remains are common failings that agents find and report during inspections.

Blinds, especially venetians, can be tricky to clean. Dust, stains and broken slats are easily noticed and frequently reported by the inspectors. Regular spot cleaning throughout the tenancy can help you avoid a major cleanup when it’s time to move out.

5. Cleaning Walls, Doors and Fixtures

Marks on walls, are one of the most common issues that agents highlight. Even small scuffs, sticky residue or fingerprints, can make a property look poorly maintained. While major repainting isn’t expected, tenants are often required to patch and cleanup wherever possible.

Light switches, door handles and power points are high touch areas that agents will be sure to check. Cobwebs on ceilings, dirty air conditioning vents or dusty light fittings, can also cause bond disputes. Paying attention to these fixtures ensures your home looks thoroughly cleaned.

6. Outdoor Areas and Additional Space Maintenance

Balconies, patios and gardens are also a part of the rental property and shouldn’t be overlooked. Agents expect the outdoor spaces to be swept, weed free and the rubbish removed. Garden beds should be tidy, lawns mowed and outdoor furniture (if any) needs to be wiped down.

Garages and storage facilities are also frequently overlooked, but they should be emptied, swept and kept clear of oil stains. For tenants in urban areas, professional end of lease cleaning Melbourne firms, frequently include outside spaces in their service packages, ensuring that no detail of the home is overlooked.

Infographic: Key Focus Areas for Real Estate Agents at End of Lease

Wrapping Up

End of lease inspections can feel daunting, but when you understand what agents actually focus on, it can become easier to prepare. Tenants can move out with confidence and receive a full bond refund, by carefully cleaning or employing specialists who understand what is required. Happy cleaning!