By Rejuv Cleaning ·
Moving out of a rental in Guelph or Waterloo Region? This checklist covers what to clean before the final walkthrough, whether you do it yourself or book a move-out clean.
First, how Ontario is different
If you have rented elsewhere, you may expect a damage deposit that is held back when the unit is left dirty. In Ontario, landlords generally cannot collect a damage or security deposit. They can collect a rent deposit (usually last month’s rent) and a refundable key deposit.
That does not mean cleaning does not matter. Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 makes the tenant responsible for the ordinary cleanliness of the rental unit, unless the lease says the landlord will clean it. Leaving a unit clean avoids disputes and makes for a better reference.
This is general information, not legal advice. For your situation, check your lease and the resources from the Landlord and Tenant Board.
Kitchen
- Empty, wipe and dry the fridge and freezer; clean the shelves and drawers
- Clean inside the oven, the racks and the stovetop; wipe the range hood
- Clean inside and outside the microwave and dishwasher
- Wipe inside every cabinet and drawer, then the fronts and handles
- Clean counters, backsplash and sink; shine the tap
Bathrooms
- Descale and clean the tub, shower, glass doors and tile
- Clean the toilet inside and out, including the base
- Clean the sink, vanity, mirror and the inside of the vanity cabinet
- Wipe the exhaust fan cover
Every room
- Dust ceiling fans, light fixtures and vents
- Wipe baseboards, doors, frames and handles
- Wipe light switches and outlet covers
- Clean interior windows, sills and blinds
- Empty and wipe closets
- Vacuum carpets and wash hard floors, finishing at the door
Easy to forget
- The balcony or patio, if you have one
- The laundry area and the dryer lint trap
- Your storage locker in a condo or apartment building
- Garbage and recycling: follow your building or municipal collection rules, and do not leave items behind
Timing in a university town
Many leases around the University of Guelph, the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier end on April 30 or August 31. Cleaners and moving trucks book up around those dates, so plan ahead. Clean after your belongings are out, and before the final walkthrough.
Landlords turning over several units can ask for a combined quote.