Moving out is usually all about focusing on the new place: getting your furniture positioned just right, moving all the boxes to the right rooms to be unpacked, and planning on how you’ll decorate. But before you can do anything of that, you have to make sure you finish moving out of the old one, which means doing a thorough cleaning.
This isn’t anybody’s favorite job, but it has to be done. You won’t be able to collect your security deposit if your landlord isn’t happy with the state of the apartment. The tips found in this article will help you get it done and get it done well.
Start by creating a cleaning plan. The cleaning plan will lay out all of the tasks you have to complete and when you need to get each step done by. Cleaning an apartment has to be done on a tight timeline to ensure you get everything done before the landlord does a walkthrough to check the place out. Set deadlines for each task, and then mark them off as they get done. This will give you a visual reminder of everything you’ve completed so far, to help motivate you to keep going.
Make sure you have thoroughly read through your lease with regards to cleaning. This will tell you what aspects of the cleaning your landlord will be looking for. Also, this will tell you if there are certain cleaning chemicals that can’t be used on your property. This is especially likely if you live in a historic building. Some cleaning chemicals can damage older plumbing or flooring; trust that your landlord knows what the building is made of and don’t use any prohibited products during your cleaning. Otherwise, you’ll be on the hook for repairs more costly than losing your security deposit.
Don’t miss any spots. Your landlord knows all of the closets, cabinets, and shelving in your apartment, as well as any other nooks and crannies. Don’t forget to clean the dust and debris from the top shelves of all of your cabinets and closets, as well as from windowsills, ceiling fans, and baseboards. Clean spattered food from the kitchen backsplash and the walls near the stove. Also, don’t forget to clean out the lint trap in the dryer and get the dust out of the window A/C units, if you have either of those appliances.
Consider hiring a professional carpet cleaning company if your carpets are especially dirty. Be sure to vacuum and spot treat before considering this option, however, as there might not be a need to go as far as hiring professionals once you do a thorough job. You could also consider renting a carpet cleaning machine from a local store and attempting it yourself.
When you think you’ve finished cleaning, go over everything one more time. Check to make sure you’ve removed all of your belongings from all cabinets, closets, and drawers. Then do a final sweep with a broom to get rid of all the dirt that might have been kicked up when you removed all of the boxes and furniture.
If you can’t get everything done in time to get your security deposit back, ask for help. You might have friends or family who will work on your apartment with you, or you can hire a professional company. Your friends will be more likely to help if you sweeten the deal by offering to pay them, too, or buying everyone some kind of gift for helping. It won’t be free but it’s better than losing your security deposit. Let us help you with our services call us today!
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