Bond Clean Prep Timeline: What to Do Before You Move Out

Pack boxes. Redirect mail. Transfer utilities. Schedule the movers. Return the keys. Oh and not to forget, clean every corner of the house till it’s spotless. Phew! It makes sense why moving feels like a marathon. To help ease your burden, a bond cleaning prep timeline breaks down all the activities in stages. You can approach your move with confidence, if you have a plan for what needs to be done and when.

This guide will walk you through a complete bond cleaning preparation timeline. Whether you choose to manage everything on your own or hire professionals for top quality end of lease cleaning Adelaide, these steps will help you stay organised and save time. This will ultimately increase your chances of getting your bond back.

1. Two to Three weeks Before Moving Out: Start Planning

The biggest mistake tenants make is leaving cleaning to the last few days before moving. Ideally, around two to three weeks before your move, start preparing a checklist of all the areas needing attention. Contact your property manager or check your lease agreement for any specific cleaning conditions.

Now is also the right time to declutter; the less you have to pack, the easier it is to clean. Go through cupboards, wardrobes and storage spaces to get rid of items you don’t intend to take with you. Sell, donate or recycle what you can. Once the clutter is gone, you’ll have a clearer view of what needs cleaning and how much time it might take.

2. One to Two Weeks Before Moving: Focus on Deep Cleaning

This is when you roll up your sleeves and start tackling the heavier cleaning jobs. Focus on areas that usually get overlooked during routine cleaning, such as:

• Oven and stovetop: These are among the most inspected items. To get rid of accumulated dirt and burned food, use a degreaser.
• Rangehood filters: Soak them in warm, soapy water and scrub thoroughly.
• Walls and skirting boards: Eliminate dust accumulation and scuff marks.
• Windows and tracks: Clean both inside and out, ensuring tracks are dirt free.

Consider hiring a professional carpet cleaner if your floors are carpeted. Before repaying the bond many property managers expressly demand a receipt for expert carpet cleaning. Comparing bids for end of lease cleaning Adelaide services is also a smart idea at this point, particularly if you’re pressed for time or want specialised equipment for a complete clean.

3. One Week Before Moving: Clean Kitchen and Bathroom

Kitchens and bathrooms are where inspections are the most detailed. A week before you move, dedicate time to these two spaces. In the kitchen, scrub cupboards inside and out, remove grease from splashbacks, and make sure the sink and tap fittings are spotless. Don’t forget to defrost and clean the refrigerator and freezer if they’re part of the property.

In the bathroom, focus on the shower screens, tiles, and grout. Polish mirrors and chrome fittings and get rid of any mould or soap scum. If any fixtures like towel rails or shower heads, are missing or broken and are part of the property, replace them. You won’t be overburdened with extensive cleaning right before the inspection day if you complete these chores in advance.

4. Three to Four Days Before Moving: Tackle Bedrooms and Living Areas

After the major tasks are finished, clean the common areas like the living room, bedrooms and corridors. Begin by vacuuming and cleaning every surface, including light fixtures, bookcases, and closets. As standard inspection points, make sure the blinds, air conditioning vents and ceiling fans are clean.

Dust every corner and check for cobwebs along ceilings or behind furniture. Make small repairs to the wall and look for any nails or hooks that may have been left from hanging pictures. Do minor paint touch ups now (if permitted), to keep the walls looking tidy and uniform. At this point, you should also work with the movers, to finalise the pickup or collection time and confirm your relocation timetable.

5. One Day Before Moving: Final Touches

The day before you leave conduct the final cleaning. Pay attention to the finishing touches. Vacuum and mop the floors, wipe down the switches, and make sure the area smells fresh. Clean windows once more if needed, especially if you’ve moved furniture that exposed hidden dust.

Using your cleaning checklist, it’s a good idea to go through each room and cross things off. Take pictures to record your cleaning efforts. If there are disagreements later these will be helpful. Professional end of lease cleaning Adelaide services will usually take care of this step for you, making sure every little detail satisfies inspection requirements.

6. Move Out Day: Inspection Ready

Before transferring the keys on the big day, make sure everything is in good condition. Make sure the balcony or outdoor space is swept, the trash cans are empty and any necessary garden maintenance is finished. Keep copies of your cleaning receipts and condition report handy during the inspection.

The goal is to leave the property looking exactly as it was when you first moved in. A well executed cleaning prep timeline ensures you’re not caught off guard by any last minute issues. More importantly, it gives you peace of mind that your bond is secure.

Infographic: A Handy Bond Cleaning Prep Timeline

Wrapping Up

Moving out doesn’t have to be an unpleasant or chaotic experience. If you follow a clear bond cleaning prep timeline, you’ll stay organised, meet your landlord’s criteria and leave the property in great condition. You can leave your previous home with your bond back and a new beginning, if you follow the right plan.