When preparing for your end of lease clean, it’s easy to focus on the interior of your rental property. However, if your property includes an outdoor space such as a balcony, patio, garden, or even a shared courtyard, it’s just as important to give these areas attention. Neglecting to clean your outdoor spaces can lead to deductions from your bond, just as much as unclean floors or dirty bathrooms inside the house. At Cleaning Near Me, we know that landlords expect all areas of the property to be returned in pristine condition—inside and out.
Why Outdoor Areas Matter in End of Lease Cleaning
Landlords and property managers often inspect outdoor areas closely to ensure they are well-maintained and free from damage. Unclean patios, overgrown gardens, or neglected balconies can leave a bad impression during the final inspection and may result in you losing part of your bond. To avoid this, outdoor spaces should be cleaned as thoroughly as the inside of the property, ensuring every area is spotless when you hand over the keys.
Key Areas to Focus On
1. Sweep and Mop Surfaces
Dirt, leaves, and other debris can accumulate quickly on outdoor surfaces, especially in high-traffic areas like patios, balconies, and walkways. Here’s how to keep them looking their best:
- Sweep the area thoroughly: Start by sweeping away any leaves, dust, or debris. Pay special attention to corners and edges where dirt often collects.
- Mop or wash down hard surfaces: After sweeping, mop or hose down hard surfaces to remove any lingering dirt or grime. This is especially important for tiled patios or balconies, as staining or discoloration could result in complaints during the final inspection.
2. Gardening and Yard Maintenance
If your rental property includes a garden, it’s essential to leave it well-maintained. Here’s what you should do to keep it in top shape:
- Remove weeds: Weeds are a common issue in gardens, and they can make the property look uncared for. Make sure to pull out all weeds, including those growing in between pavement cracks or flower beds.
- Trim overgrown plants: Overgrown plants or bushes should be trimmed back to maintain a neat and tidy appearance. If you planted any seasonal flowers, be sure to remove them or make arrangements as per your lease agreement.
- Mow the lawn: If your property has a lawn, ensure it is freshly mowed before your final inspection. A well-kept garden gives the property a much more polished look.
3. Clean Outdoor Furniture and BBQ Equipment
Outdoor furniture and BBQ equipment can get grimy if left exposed to the elements. Before your lease ends, ensure that these items are clean and in good condition:
- Clean furniture: Wipe down outdoor chairs, tables, and any other furniture to remove dust, dirt, or bird droppings. If you have cushions, check if they need to be cleaned or replaced.
- Clean BBQs: If you’ve used a BBQ grill during your tenancy, it’s essential to thoroughly clean it, removing any grease or food residue. A dirty BBQ is an easy way to lose points during an inspection.
4. Check the Gutters
If your lease includes responsibility for outdoor maintenance, you may be required to clean the gutters. Clogged gutters can lead to drainage issues, which could cause more significant problems down the line. Here’s how to tackle gutter cleaning:
- Clear leaves and debris: Check gutters for leaves, twigs, or other debris that may have collected during your tenancy. Removing these blockages helps ensure proper water flow and protects the property from water damage.
- Rinse with water: Once you’ve cleared the debris, rinse the gutters with water to ensure there are no remaining blockages.
Pro Tip: Don’t Forget the Windows
When cleaning outdoor areas, it’s also essential to check the exterior windows. Dirty windows can negatively impact the overall appearance of the property, so take the time to clean them, ensuring they are free from smudges, streaks, and dirt buildup.
Why Outdoor Cleaning Is Essential for Your Bond
A well-maintained outdoor area can make a significant difference when it comes to passing your final inspection and securing your bond return. Many tenants overlook outdoor spaces during their end of lease clean, but landlords expect these areas to be left clean and tidy, just like the interior. If you neglect to clean outdoor areas, you could risk losing part of your bond. By giving your patio, garden, balcony, and any outdoor furniture the attention they need, you increase your chances of getting your full bond back.
Outdoor Spaces Matter for Your End of Lease Clean
When planning your end of lease clean, don’t forget about the outdoor areas. At Cleaning Near Me, we understand the importance of leaving every inch of the property in pristine condition. By sweeping and mopping surfaces, maintaining gardens, cleaning outdoor furniture, and checking gutters, you can leave the outdoor space looking just as clean and fresh as the inside. These small steps can make a big difference in getting your bond back in full.
For more expert tips on end of lease cleaning, or to book a professional service, contact Cleaning Near Me today.
If you’re not sure where to start, or if you simply want peace of mind knowing the job is done right, Cleaning Near Me can handle all your kitchen cleaning needs. We service Sydney and surrounding suburbs including:
- Inner West Suburbs: Abbotsford, Ashbury, Ashfield, Balmain, Burwood, Concord, Dulwich Hill, Five Dock, Glebe, Homebush, Hurlstone Park, Leichhardt, Lilyfield, Marrickville, Newtown, Rozelle, Strathfield, Petersham, Concord and Summer Hill
- Eastern Suburbs: Randwick, Waverley and Woollahra
- Inner South West Suburbs: Castle Hill, West Pennant Hills, Glenhaven, Kenthurst, Annangrove, Dural, Beaumont Hills Kellyville, Baulkham Hills, Rouse Hill and Box Hill
- North Suburbs: Manly, Dee Why, Mona Vale, Narrabeen, Frenchs Forest, Terrey Hills, Belrose, Neutral Bay, Northbridge, Lane Cove, Chatswood, Lindfield, St Ives and Pymble, Thornleigh, Westleigh, Normanhurst, Wahroonga, Turramurra and Gordon.
- Southern Suburbs: Redfern, Eveleigh, Waterloo, Zetland, Alexandria, Beaconsfield, Rosebery, Eastlakes and Mascot.
Contact us today for a free quote and ensure your end of lease cleaning is seamless.
