Maintaining your rental’s exterior can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling daily responsibilities. From cleaning windows to keeping the lawn pristine, there’s a lot to monitor.
One of the biggest hurdles you’ll face is the final inspection when it’s time to move out and reclaim your deposit.
However, a well-maintained exterior can make this process significantly easier. Let’s explore practical strategies to keep the outside of your rental looking fantastic.
Keep Windows and Glass Surfaces Spotless
Windows are your home‘s eyes, and nothing says “well-cared-for” like clean, streak-free glass. Regular cleaning is essential if you want your rental to look its best, yet many people neglect this until grime builds up noticeably.
Start by wiping away dirt and fingerprints using a mild detergent or glass cleaner with a soft cloth. For stubborn stains, a vinegar and water solution works remarkably well. This same method applies to glass patio doors.
Don’t forget to clean both sides. The exterior surfaces typically accumulate more dirt from rain, dust, and pollution, making them appear particularly dull.
If you can easily access all your windows, this task should take just an afternoon. For upper-floor windows that are difficult to reach, hiring a professional may be the safer option.
Why should you prioritise windows? They’re one of the first things landlords or agents examine during final inspections. Sparkling glass can make an excellent first impression and demonstrate your care for the property.
Maintain Your Garden Regularly
Whether your rental has a small garden or a larger yard, keeping it maintained is essential. An overgrown, untidy yard signals that you’re a careless tenant.
As a renter, you’re typically responsible for outdoor area upkeep. A well-maintained garden also improves your quality of life whenever you step outside.
Start with the basics. Mow the lawn regularly, trim hedges, and remove weeds from flower beds. These simple tasks keep your yard looking attractive.
If your property has a patio or potted plants, maintain those as well. Watering plants and clearing the patio of debris and leaves will quickly improve your outdoor space’s overall appearance.
Many landlords include garden maintenance requirements in lease agreements, meaning you must return it in the same condition you found it. This can be crucial for securing your full deposit refund.
Investing time regularly helps you avoid unpleasant surprises when moving out.
Clean Driveways and Pathways
Your driveway and pathways are likely the first things visitors or prospective tenants notice about your property.
Keeping them clean is a simple yet effective way to enhance the property’s overall appearance. Weeds sprouting through cracks or accumulated dirt create a neglected impression.
Regular sweeping removes leaves, dirt, and debris, keeping your driveway looking fresh. Power washing is excellent for removing grime that’s built up over time.
If you don’t want to purchase a power washer, you can rent one or hire a local company to handle the job. This can make a dramatic difference, especially on stone or concrete driveways.
Pathways should also remain free of hazards like rocks or fallen branches to ensure safety and maintain a neat, welcoming appearance. The last thing anyone wants is to trip over a twig while approaching the front door.
Care for Exterior Walls and the Roof
While you might assume tenants needn’t worry about exterior walls or the roof, that’s not always true.
Depending on weather conditions, these areas can accumulate mildew, dirt, or moss. A property with clean walls and a debris-free roof always makes a better impression.
You can quickly clean exterior walls using mild detergent and water, wiping away visible dirt or stains. Before using cleaning products, check with your landlord whether the building has cladding or wood panelling, as these materials require specific care.
Regarding the roof, safety is paramount. If you notice fallen branches or moss, inform your landlord or contact an end of tenancy house cleaning service if you’re moving out soon. This is much safer than attempting to clear it yourself.
Regular inspections by the property owner or professionals can keep the roof in good condition without putting tenants at risk.
Clean and Protect Outdoor Furniture
Maintaining clean outdoor furniture significantly impacts your property’s overall appearance. Since outdoor furniture is constantly exposed to the elements, it collects dust, dirt, and debris more quickly.
Start by removing accumulated dirt, bird droppings, and dust. Then, clean all surfaces with warm, soapy water and a cloth.
If you use commercial cleaning products, make sure they’re environmentally friendly and pet-safe, especially if you have pets that explore the outdoor space.
Covering furniture when not in use, particularly during damp or cold months, helps preserve it. If outdoor furniture was included with your rental, maintaining it properly ensures you won’t face disputes at the end of your lease.
Maintain Gutters and Drains
Though often overlooked, gutters and drains are critical to maintaining the property’s overall condition. Clogged gutters can cause water damage both inside and outside the home, as water may seep through walls or ceilings.
Your landlord will likely withhold part of your deposit if they discover water stains or damage caused by neglected gutters.
Many professional end-of-tenancy cleaning companies include gutter and drain maintenance in their packages, ensuring these frequently forgotten areas receive proper attention.
By using these services, you not only improve the property’s exterior but also prevent problems for future tenants.
Address Exterior Lighting and Fixtures
Outdoor lighting plays a surprisingly important role in your rental’s curb appeal and functionality. Non-functioning lights or dirty fixtures can make the property appear neglected during evening viewings or final inspections.
Walk around the exterior of your home and test all outdoor lights, including porch lights, pathway lighting, and any decorative fixtures. Replace any burned-out bulbs with the correct type and wattage.
Don’t forget to clean the light fixtures themselves. Dust, cobwebs, and insect debris accumulate quickly on outdoor lights. Use a damp cloth to wipe down covers and housings, ensuring they shine and function properly.
If you notice any fixtures that are loose or damaged, report them to your landlord promptly. Well-maintained exterior lighting not only enhances safety but also shows attention to detail that landlords appreciate during move-out inspections.
Conclusion
Maintaining a rental home’s exterior may seem complex, but it’s really about respecting the space you occupy and preventing issues during the final inspection.
From weeding the garden to polishing windows and cleaning the driveway, these tasks keep your property looking its best. Completing them ahead of time also makes the end-of-tenancy cleaning process much smoother.
You’ll have less last-minute work to handle, and you’ll leave a positive impression that helps you get your full deposit back.
