How to Clean Rentals Between Tenants

A tenant turnover cleaning is a meticulous and thorough cleaning of the rental unit in preparation for the next tenant. It is essential to do a thorough job to attract new tenants and rent the unit quickly. The following is a list of critical areas to check off your cleaning checklist to help you keep your unit occupied with a perfect tenant.

Check Hard-to-Reach Areas in the Bathrooms

Every tenant will be expecting a like-new bathroom. To do this, scrub the tub, shower stall, toilet bowl, sink basin, and floor. Check for any hard water buildup and ensure that everything is sparkling clean.

If you encounter hard water buildup, use cleaning vinegar to remove it. Let it soak as needed, and use cloths soaked in cleaning vinegar to remove the hard-to-reach areas. Check under the counter ledges and the grout in the shower if it is tiled, and make sure to clean those areas as well.

Don't Forget Windows & Sills

The windows are easy to overlook and have many edges that are challenging to clean. It is essential to check the window track, corners, and screen. Clean fingerprints and streaks from all windows inside and out. Also, check for any cobwebs in the corners and in between blinds. This can build up over time. Another critical area to check is the window tracks. Make sure that they are free of dust and dirt. Make sure the blinds are intact and are dusted reasonably well.

Look For Scuffs or Stains on Walls & Ceilings

Walls and ceilings can hide damage if they are dirty. Wipe away any smudges, dents, or scuffs from walls with a damp cloth. If any adhesive residue is left behind from wall decor, be sure to remove that as well. If your rental allows cats and dogs, you'll want to brush up on cleaning tips for homes with pets.

For ceilings, dust away any cobwebs or dust bunnies with a broom or duster. Cleaning the walls before returning a damage deposit can help you identify damage and remove paint, as dirty walls can hide a lot. Remove posters and their tape, as these also hide damage.

Open Up Cabinets & Drawers

Cabinets and drawers are significant indicators of water damage and overall cleanliness. No one likes moving into a place where their plates and cutlery are stored on a dirty surface. Both the outside and inside need to be checked. Often, food causes damage to the inside of cabinets.

Any traces of food or dirt should be removed from cabinets and drawers. Remove any food debris from the front of the cabinet and cupboard doors. This also goes for the fridge - clean out old food and wipe down shelves, sinks, and countertops. Also, check for water damage under sinks for possible repairs.

Make Appliances Look Like New

All appliances should be cleaned inside and out, including the oven, refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, washer, and dryer. Remember to pull them out and check under them and around the sides for any build-up of dust or dirt.

The Floors Need to Sparkle

Floors are last and easy to check. The corners are often neglected, and if it is a furnished unit, behind them may be overlooked for dust-tumbleweeds. Sweep/vacuum and mop all floors, paying particular attention to high-traffic areas such as hallways, entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms. Some flooring types have special requirements, so be sure to do your research before cleaning.

Don't Let Crucial Areas Go Uncleaned Between Tenants

Doing a thorough cleaning before your new tenant arrives is part of being a responsible landlord. By cleaning these essential areas on your turnover checklist, you can ensure that your rental unit will look its best and be ready to rent! Sometimes, it is easier to hire a professional cleaning company, which is an important step.