First Australian Move-Out Dilemma

The checklist, which the renter shared, sets out detailed expectations for the condition of the property. In the kitchen, the stove, hot plate, oven, grill, drip trays, knobs, rangehood vents and exhaust fan must be thoroughly cleaned and free of grease and streaky marks, as must the tiles, bench top and cupboards surrounding the cooktop. In bathrooms, toilets and the laundry, all soap residue, mould and screens are to be cleaned, the shower curtain replaced if required, and bathroom cabinets and mirrors wiped down. Exhaust fan covers in the bathrooms are to be removed and dusted, along with any ceiling fans. Air conditioning and ducted heating vents, whether floor or ceiling, must be cleaned and dusted, and all blinds cleaned of dust and finger marks, with drape blinds washed if a pet has lived at the premises. Windows and sills are to be cleaned inside and out, including sliding doors, and window tracks vacuumed and cleaned. All cupboards in the bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen and linen areas are to be emptied and cleaned inside and out. Marks are to be removed from walls, with the checklist noting that sugar soap is available at supermarkets and that its instructions should be followed carefully to avoid damage. Both sides of internal doors, including handles, are to be wiped, as are light switches and power points, and light fittings are to be cleaned with all globes working. Floors are to be washed, skirting boards wiped, grout left in clean and “reasonable” condition, and surfaces such as overhead cabinets and built-in cupboard shelves dusted.