Home cleaning · 5 min read
End-of-tenancy cleaning checklist (NZ)
A room-by-room end-of-tenancy cleaning checklist for New Zealand rentals, to help tenants leave the property reasonably clean and tidy.
- NZ tenants must leave a property reasonably clean and tidy
- Kitchens and bathrooms are where most issues are found
- Don’t forget outside: rubbish, lawns and outdoor areas
Under the Residential Tenancies Act, tenants in New Zealand must leave a rental reasonably clean and tidy, remove their belongings and rubbish, and return keys at the end of a tenancy. A thorough clean is the best way to avoid a bond dispute.
Kitchen
- Oven, grill, hob and rangehood filter degreased
- Inside and outside of cupboards and drawers wiped
- Benches, splashback and sink cleaned
- Fridge emptied, cleaned and left open if switched off
- Dishwasher filter cleared
Bathrooms and laundry
- Shower, glass and tiles descaled, including grout
- Toilet cleaned inside, outside and behind
- Basin, vanity, mirror and cabinets wiped
- Extractor fan dusted
- Laundry tub and dryer lint filter cleaned
Every room
- Walls spot-cleaned and marks removed where possible
- Light switches, door handles and skirting boards wiped
- Inside windows, sills and tracks cleaned
- Wardrobes emptied and wiped
- Carpets vacuumed and hard floors mopped
Outside
- All rubbish removed from the property
- Lawns and gardens left as required by the tenancy agreement
- Garage, carport and outdoor areas swept
Short on time? Our move-out cleans follow a checklist built around what inspections look for. Property managers can also join our partner program.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need professional carpet cleaning when I move out?
Only if your tenancy agreement requires it or the carpets are dirtier than normal wear and tear. Check your agreement.
What if the landlord says it isn’t clean enough?
Talk to them first. If you can’t agree, either party can apply to the Tenancy Tribunal. Photos of the property when you leave are useful evidence.
Maidly looks after homes across Christchurch with eco-friendly methods and a 100% work guarantee on every service. Request a free quote.