Tenant Cleaning Guide
During Your Tenancy & End-of-Tenancy Expectations
General Cleaning Checklist
General Cleaning
- Dust all surfaces and skirting boards
- Remove cobwebs from corners
- Wipe down light switches and door handles
Kitchen Care
- Clean oven and stovetop regularly
- Wipe down benchtops and backsplash
- Check and clean dishwasher filters
Carpets & Floors
- Vacuum carpets at least once a week
- Mop hard floors with suitable cleaners
- Treat any spills immediately
Mould & Moisture
- Open windows daily for cross-ventilation
- Use extractor fans in wet areas
- Wipe condensation from windows and sills
Bathroom Care
- Scrub shower tiles and grout regularly
- Clean toilet and vanity surfaces
- Keep floor and walls dry to prevent mould
Rubbish & Hygiene
- Empty internal bins frequently
- Keep the outdoor bin area tidy
- Clean recycling bins consistently
Kitchen Care
- Oven and grill must be entirely free of grease, fat, and burnt-on food residue.
- Rangehood filters must be degreased or replaced if they are saturated.
- Dishwasher interior should be clean, including the filter and door seals.
- Cabinets, drawers, and pantry shelves must be emptied and wiped out thoroughly.
- All countertops and splashbacks must be cleaned, sanitized, and streak-free.
- Sinks, taps, and drains should be cleared, free of limescale, and polished to a shine.
Bathroom Care
- Maintain ventilation by using extractor fans or opening windows for 10-15 minutes after every shower to prevent mould and moisture.
- Regularly scrub shower glass, tiles, and grout with appropriate cleaners to stop soap scum and lime-scale buildup.
- Wipe down vanities, mirrors, and cabinetry weekly to keep surfaces fresh and free from water spots.
- Ensure the toilet is cleaned and sanitised regularly, including the base and surrounding floor area.
- Report any leaks, dripping taps, or slow-draining basins immediately to prevent water damage.
End-of-Tenancy Cleaning Requirements
To ensure a full bond refund, please follow this comprehensive cleaning checklist before your final inspection.
Whole Property
Kitchen
Bathroom
- Vacuum all floors and carpets
- Wipe down all walls and light switches
- Remove all cobwebs from corners
- Disinfect all door handles and remotes
- Deep clean oven and grill trays
- Empty and clean dishwasher filter
- Wipe out all cupboards and drawers
- Degrease rangehood and filters
- Shower glass to be scale-free
- Sanitise toilet, bath, and sinks
- Wipe out vanity and medicine cabinet
- Clean mirror and vents
Windows
Laundry
Outdoor Areas
- Clean all interior glass panels
- Wipe down window sills and frames
- Ensure tracks are free of dust
- Dust and clean blinds or curtains
- Clean washing machine space
- Scrub laundry tub and taps
- Wipe shelving and drying area
- Empty lint from dryer filters
- Sweep deck, patio, and garage
- Garage must be empty and swept
- Remove all garden waste and trash
- Mow lawns if required by agreement
Important Notes
If the property is not left in a reasonably clean and tidy condition, a professional cleaner may be engaged at the tenant’s expense, with costs deducted from the bond. We recommend taking clear photos of all areas once cleaning is complete.
Eco-Friendly Cleaning Tips
We recommend using natural cleaning products where possible. A simple mix of white vinegar, water, and lemon can clean most surfaces effectively without harsh chemicals, keeping your home fresh and sustainable.
Important Notes
Riverslea Property Management requires all properties to be left in a ‘reasonably clean and tidy’ condition as per NZ law. Following this checklist ensures a smooth move-out and helps protect your full refund.