Moving house can be exciting—new spaces, fresh starts, and new routines. But let’s be real, it can also be one of life’s most exhausting and stressful experiences. Amid packing, paperwork, and coordinating logistics, there’s one major item that needs to be handled before you hand over the keys: the end of lease clean. Scheduling this clean strategically can save you from unexpected delays, extra costs, and last-minute scrambles, ensuring a smooth, stress-free moving transition to your next home.
So, when is the best time to schedule end of lease clean? This article breaks down key considerations, timelines, and expert tips to help you choose the perfect time for an end of lease clean that suits your schedule, your budget, and your peace of mind.
1. Understanding the Importance of an End of Lease Cleaning
Before diving into the details of timing, it’s important to understand why an end of lease cleaning is non-negotiable. Most rental agreements in Australia include a clause that requires tenants to return the property in a similar condition to when they moved in. This involves deep-cleaning everything from floors to fixtures, carpets, and even the often-overlooked areas like skirting boards and blinds.
Failing to meet these standards can lead to deductions from your bond return or even disputes with your landlord or property manager. A professional end-of-lease clean ensures that every nook and cranny is addressed, so you leave the property in top-notch condition, ready for the next tenant or for sale.
2. Key Factors to Consider When Scheduling an End of Lease Cleaning
While every move is unique, there are some general factors that can help guide you in picking the best time to schedule end of lease clean:
A. Lease Agreement Terms
Most lease agreements specify the date you need to vacate the property. This end date is the baseline for scheduling your clean—ideally, you want it completed as close to your move-out date as possible without leaving it until the last moment. Some leases might also include a requirement to conduct specific types of cleaning, like carpet or curtain cleaning, so check these details early on.
B. Property Condition
If you’ve lived in the property for several years, a deep clean may take longer due to accumulated dust, grime, and general wear and tear. Properties with children, pets, or heavy foot traffic also generally require a more thorough clean, which can take additional time.
C. Property Size
Larger properties naturally take more time to clean. A three-bedroom house with multiple bathrooms, a large kitchen, and outdoor spaces will require a longer cleaning process compared to a small one-bedroom apartment.
D. Availability of Cleaners
Professional end of lease cleaners are often in high demand, especially towards the end of the month when many leases end. Booking in advance ensures you have a slot and allows you to plan around it without last-minute surprises.
3. Optimal Times to Schedule Your End of Lease Clean
Given these factors, here are some guidelines to help you find the best time to schedule end of lease clean:
A. One Week Before Move-Out Date
For many tenants, scheduling the end of lease clean around a week before your move-out date offers a good balance. By this stage, most of your belongings will likely be packed, which allows cleaners to access areas that may have previously been covered by furniture or appliances. This timing also provides a buffer in case any additional touch-ups are required, or if the property manager has specific requests after the initial clean.
B. Two Days Before Move-Out Date
For a smaller property or an apartment, a clean scheduled two days before your move-out date can work well. Most of your packing and preparation should be done by this point, and it leaves a small but flexible timeframe for any last-minute adjustments. This is particularly useful if the property manager wants a quick inspection before finalising the bond return.
C. The Day Before Move-Out
If the property is mostly empty and your move-out logistics are under control, scheduling the clean the day before the official handover is often ideal. It leaves minimal time for dust to settle or for any accidental messes to reappear, ensuring the property is in pristine condition when you hand over the keys. However, this approach requires confidence that the cleaning team will be able to handle any potential complications in a short timeframe.
4. Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Scheduling Your Clean
Even with a solid plan in place, some common scheduling pitfalls can throw off the most organised move. Here’s how to steer clear:
A. Avoid Last-Minute Bookings
Booking a professional end of lease clean service at the last minute can leave you with limited options and possibly higher fees. End of lease cleaning services are often booked well in advance, so it’s wise to secure a time as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
B. Don’t Schedule the Clean Too Early
While it’s tempting to tackle the clean well in advance to “get it out of the way,” doing so can lead to issues. Dust, footprints, and minor messes tend to appear as you continue to pack, move, and prepare, especially if you’re still living in the property. An early clean may need a second touch-up, adding extra costs and stress.
C. Consider Overlap with Moving Day
If your end of lease cleaning is scheduled on the same day as your move-out, things can get hectic. Professional end of lease cleaners often need a fully or mostly empty space to work efficiently, so if you’re still moving boxes and furniture, it can slow down the cleaning process. Try to stagger the clean and the move-out for a more efficient workflow.
5. Planning for High-Demand Seasons
Some seasons are busier than others in the cleaning industry, and knowing these can help you avoid peak times and price surges:
A. End of the Month
The end of the month is generally the busiest time for end of lease cleaning services, as leases typically end at month’s close. Booking early if your lease ends on the 30th or 31st is essential to secure a time that works for you.
B. The Start of the Year
January and February also tend to be busy as leases reset after the holidays, and people frequently change residences for new jobs, schools, or personal reasons. Booking well in advance during this time can help you secure the best cleaning slot.
C. Public Holiday Periods
If your move-out date falls around a public holiday, bear in mind that professional end of lease cleaners may have limited availability or increased fees. It’s also helpful to check if your property manager will be available to perform an inspection on or around the holiday, so any final adjustments can be made before the handover.
6. Adding in Extra Services: When to Schedule Specialist Cleaning
Certain properties or lease agreements might call for specialised cleaning services, like carpet or window cleaning. Here’s when to book these:
A. Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning
Carpet and upholstery cleaning is usually best scheduled right after the main clean. These areas require drying time, so booking them just before your move-out gives ample time for the carpets to be ready for inspection.
B. Outdoor Areas
If you have a garden, balcony, or outdoor area, schedule any cleaning or gardening tasks closer to your final inspection. This timing ensures that outdoor spaces look fresh, as dust and debris can quickly accumulate.
C. Pest Control
Some rental agreements require pest control, especially if pets have lived in the property. Pest control is typically done right after the main clean and often on the same day as carpet cleaning, as this minimises the likelihood of re-infestation.
7. Wrapping Up: The Final Walkthrough
Once the cleaning is done, take the time to do a final walkthrough yourself, ideally with your property manager, if possible. This gives you a chance to address any last-minute touch-ups or confirm that all aspects of the clean meet the standards required for bond return.
FAQs about Best Times to Schedule an End of Lease Clean for Stress-Free Moving?
- What is included in an end of lease cleaning service?
End of lease cleaning covers a comprehensive, top-to-bottom cleaning of the entire property, including kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and living areas. It typically includes cleaning floors, walls, carpets, windows, kitchen appliances, bathrooms, light fixtures, and often overlooked areas like skirting boards and door frames. - How far in advance should I book my end of lease clean?
It’s recommended to book at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially if your lease ends at a busy time like the end of the month or near public holidays. This ensures you secure a time that works for you and avoid last-minute booking fees.
- Do I need to be present during the cleaning?
You don’t necessarily need to be present during the end of lease clean, but it’s helpful to be available either at the start or the end of the cleaning session to inspect the work and address any concerns. - Will the cleaning service guarantee my bond return?
Professional end of lease cleaning companies often offer a “bond-back guarantee,” meaning they’re willing to return and address any specific concerns raised by the property manager. However, the guarantee is subject to the condition of the property before cleaning and any additional requirements by the property manager or landlord. - How long does an end of lease clean typically take?
The duration depends on the property’s size and condition. A one-bedroom apartment may take around 3-4 hours, while a large house could require a full day or longer. Your cleaning service provider can give a more accurate estimate based on your property. - Is carpet cleaning included in an end of lease clean?
Carpet cleaning is often an additional service, as it requires specialised equipment and drying time. Many lease agreements require professional carpet cleaning, especially if there are visible stains or if pets have been on the property. - Do I need to empty the property before the end of lease clean?
Yes, it’s best to have the property fully or mostly empty before the end of lease clean. This allows the cleaners to access all areas and complete a thorough job without obstacles or furniture in the way. - What if I need to reschedule my cleaning appointment?
Most cleaning companies understand that moving schedules can change and allow rescheduling if given enough notice. Check with your service provider about their cancellation and rescheduling policy to avoid fees. - Will the cleaners do minor repairs or maintenance work?
End of lease cleaners focus solely on deep cleaning. Any minor repairs, such as fixing wall holes or replacing light bulbs, would need to be arranged separately, though some companies might offer additional handyman services. - How should I prepare for the end of lease clean?
Preparing for an end of lease clean involves removing personal belongings, clearing out cupboards, and defrosting the fridge if needed. The property should be empty of all items except installed fixtures, so the cleaners can access all surfaces and areas effectively.
Take the stress out of moving with a seamless, professional end of lease clean. Ensure every corner of your property shines for that bond back guarantee. Ready to book? Call now on 03 8583 9109, email info@endofleaseclean.net.au, or visit endofleaseclean.net.au to get started today!