Are you preparing to move out of a rental and unsure how to pass that all-important inspection? Knowing how to deep clean a rental property before inspection in Ireland can make the difference between losing and securing your deposit.
Rental inspections in Ireland can be strict, with landlords expecting a spotless, well-maintained home. Deep cleaning ensures you meet tenancy agreement standards and leave a lasting impression.
In this blog, we’ll explore the entire process room-by-room and explain how to avoid the most common pitfalls before inspection day arrives.
Why Do Landlords Conduct Rental Property Inspections?
Landlords conduct rental property inspections to ensure that their investment is being maintained to an acceptable standard and to identify any damages or issues that may need attention. In Ireland, regular inspections help landlords confirm that tenants are following the terms of their lease agreement, such as cleanliness, property upkeep, and sticking to health and safety rules.
These inspections also allow landlords to spot early signs of damage or more serious problems like mould, damp, or pest infestations. This proactive approach helps prevent small issues from turning into costly repairs.
Additionally, before a tenant moves out, landlords perform a final inspection to assess the property’s condition and determine whether deductions from the deposit are necessary. It ensures accountability and encourages responsible tenancy throughout the lease.
How to Deep Clean a Rental Property Before Inspection in Ireland?
Deep cleaning your rental property before inspection is essential for securing your full deposit and leaving a good impression. Here is a detailed breakdown of every key area that needs attention to ensure the property meets Irish rental inspection standards.
Walls and Ceilings
Start by removing cobwebs and dust from the corners and upper edges of each room. Use a damp cloth or mild detergent solution to wipe down walls, especially around light switches, doors, and hallways where marks and stains are more likely. For painted walls, avoid harsh scrubbing to prevent damage. Ceilings should also be checked for water stains or mould, particularly in bathrooms and kitchens where moisture levels tend to be higher.
Lighting Fixtures and Switches
Dust and clean all light fixtures, including ceiling lights, lampshades, and pendant lights. Dirty or dusty lighting can make even a clean room appear neglected. Wipe switches and electrical outlets gently with a damp microfiber cloth and a small amount of disinfectant. Be sure to clean behind the switches and check for fingerprints or smudges.
Cupboards and Drawers
Empty every cupboard and drawer in the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom areas. Vacuum any crumbs or dust inside and wipe them thoroughly with a disinfectant spray. Pay close attention to corners and hinges where grime can build up. The outside of cupboard doors should also be wiped down, especially around handles where grease and dirt are commonly found.
Windows and Blinds
Clean windows inside and outside where accessible. Use a quality glass cleaner for a streak-free result. Wipe down window sills and tracks, which often collect dust, mould, or even insects. Blinds should be dusted or wiped depending on their material. For fabric blinds, use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to remove fine dust particles.
Spot Cleaning
Do a full walk-through to identify any visible spots or marks on walls, doors, or flooring. Magic erasers or mild cleaning agents can help remove scuff marks or fingerprints. Be careful on painted surfaces and always test a small area first. Look out for food stains, pet marks, or drink spills and treat them with the appropriate cleaner.
Floors
Vacuum all carpets thoroughly and consider hiring a steam cleaner if there are visible stains. For wooden, vinyl, or laminate floors, sweep the surface first and then mop using a suitable cleaning solution. Make sure to clean under furniture, behind doors, and in corners. Pay extra attention to high-traffic areas like entryways and hallways where dirt builds up quickly.
Living Areas and Bedrooms
Dust all furniture surfaces, skirting boards, and shelves. Remove cobwebs and vacuum soft furnishings such as sofas, mattresses, and curtains, especially if they are part of the rental. Clean mirrors, picture frames, and any decorations provided. Clear away any personal belongings and give the space a neat, tidy, and welcoming appearance.
Bathroom
Thoroughly clean all surfaces including the toilet, sink, bathtub, and shower area. Use a descaler on taps and showerheads to remove limescale. Scrub the grout lines between tiles using baking soda paste or specialised grout cleaner. Polish mirrors and glass shower screens until they sparkle. Disinfect around the toilet base, under the sink, and any hard-to-reach spots.
Kitchen Appliances
Clean both the inside and outside of all major appliances including the refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, and microwave. Defrost and clean the fridge, removing all shelves for a complete wipe-down. Soak and scrub oven trays and racks. Pay attention to details like oven knobs, filters in extractor fans, and microwave turntables.
Stovetops and Countertops
Use a degreaser or a baking soda paste to remove grease, burnt-on food, and grime from the stovetop. Clean all burners, knobs, and the surface beneath removable components. Wipe countertops thoroughly with a disinfectant spray. Focus on corners, seams, and behind small appliances where crumbs or residue may hide.
Don’t Forget Other Areas of the Home
Check spaces like hallways, staircases, utility rooms, and storage closets. Clean radiators from the inside out and dust behind them where dirt often gathers. Wipe air vents and ensure filters are clean to support proper airflow. If your rental includes a balcony, porch, or garden space, sweep and tidy these areas. Finally, dispose of all rubbish and recycling in accordance with local guidelines before inspection day.
Conclusion
Deep cleaning your rental property before inspection is essential for ensuring you leave the home in top condition and secure your full deposit. From scrubbing walls and ceilings to detailing appliances, floors, and bathrooms, each area plays a vital role in meeting the expectations set out by Irish landlords and inspection standards. By following a structured, room-by-room cleaning plan, you not only avoid penalties but also make the move-out process smoother and stress-free.
Our expert deep cleaning services across Ireland ensure your property is spotless, inspection-ready, and compliant with all rental standards. Book your deep clean with Perfect Clean today and move out with confidence.
