
12May2020
Does Landlord Have to Clean Before The Tenant Move In?
Does the landlord have to clean a residential property for leasing before the tenant moves in? It is a practical and common question most people searching for a house or unit to rent should ask and know the answer of. Being a tenant is stressful, especially when you are at the end of tenancy and looking for a new property that is suitable and habitable.
For making any residential property habitable, it is the responsibility of the landlord to ensure the house/unit is clean and disinfected. He/she has to follow the guideline provided by the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) which states that real estate has to be in good condition for a tenant to live safely.
Here is a complete guide to help understand the responsibilities of a landlord regarding cleaning, actions a tenant can take if the property is not clean, and how to inspect a property before moving in.
What are the Responsibilities of a Landlord Related to Cleaning a Property?
Before a tenant moves into a residential property, the landlord has certain responsibilities to fulfil regarding the cleanliness and maintenance of the house/unit. These responsibilities are mentioned as follows, and before moving in a tenant must make sure they are completed.- The property has to be deep cleaned in-between tenancies. The option to get it purged by expert end of lease cleaners is viable.
- The property should be free of dust, dirt, bric-a-brac, grime, and other contaminants
- There shouldn’t be any mould or pest infestation
- While renting a property during a pandemic outbreak, the property needs to be cleaned and disinfected thoroughly
- Depending on the lease agreement, the landlord may or may not request the previous tenants to perform end of tenancy cleaning by hiring professional end of lease cleaners in Townsville
- The property’s air vents, windows, and doors should be clean to avoid making tenants fall sick due to allergies or any other respiratory problems
- Products and tools used for cleaning the house/unit should be safe for tenants
What Actions Can A Tenant Take If The Property Is Not Clean?
When leasing a property in most rental agreements, it is stated and agreed by both parties that the property is clean and habitable. Therefore, in case the property is not cleaned as per the agreed terms upon/before the occupation, the tenant can take the following actions.- Contact the landlord regarding the cleanliness problems and see what measures the property owner takes. If for any reason the property couldn’t be cleaned as per agreement, and the landlord is ready to make amends, then a decision should be reached among the tenant and landlord. The landlord can hire end of lease cleaners in Townsville to deep clean the real estate.
- It will be a breach of contract if the property is inhabitable due to poor hygiene, maintenance, and sanitation. If the landlord makes no amends, then the tenant can file for a breach and take legal actions to terminate the tenancy
How to Inspect a Property before Leasing?
It is wise to inspect the property thoroughly when planning to inhabit a rented house or unit to ensure it is clean and liveable. In terms of sanitation, here are the things to inspect before leasing a new home.- The floors, walls, countertops, and other surfaces are free of dust, dirt, and other pollutants
- The carpets are in good condition and don’t have dust, hair, debris, etc. If the previous occupant had pets, then double-check the carpets
- Check all the vents, ducts, and grills to see they not dirty
- There is no mould growth in the house
- There are no rodents, cockroaches, bed bugs, or other pest infestation
- The cabinets, wardrobes, and other storage units are sanitary
- Windows and doors along with their frames are clean
- The kitchen and bathroom are clean and disinfected
- If the property has upholstery, then make sure it is clean and doesn’t smell
- There should not be any rubbish on the premises. For newly constructed properties, the tenant should inspect the property for spillages and bric-a-brac