How to Prepare Your Property for New Tenants: A Landlord’s Cleaning Checklist

Joseph Abraham
May 28, 2025
2 min read

Whether you're letting out a single flat or managing an entire portfolio, first impressions matter. A clean, well-presented property not only attracts tenants faster — it sets the tone for how the property is treated during the tenancy.

At Carpella Cleaning, we work with landlords and agents across London, and we've put together this essential cleaning checklist to help you prepare your property properly before new tenants move in.

🧽 Tip: Download this checklist at the end of the blog for easy printing and use during turnovers.

🛏️ 1. Bedrooms & Living Areas

Dust all surfaces, including skirting boards and picture rails
Clean windows and window sills (inside)
Wipe down doors, handles, and switches
Vacuum carpets (consider deep cleaning if stained)
Clean inside fitted wardrobes and drawers
Remove cobwebs from ceilings and corners

🍽 2. Kitchen

Clean all cupboards inside and out
Degrease extractor fan and hob
Deep clean the oven and grill
Clean fridge/freezer (defrost and disinfect)
Wipe down all appliances and surfaces
Clean sink, taps, and polish chrome
Mop flooring and check for stubborn stains

🚿 3. Bathroom(s)

Descale shower heads, taps, and screens
Clean the toilet, bath, basin, and tiles thoroughly
Wipe mirrors and polish fittings
Clear out extractor fans and vents
Clean flooring (especially grout or silicone seal)
Check for mould and treat if needed

🚪 4. Hallways & Common Areas

Vacuum or mop floors
Clean light switches and banisters
Dust skirting boards and wipe doors
Make sure communal entryways are clean and free of rubbish

🪑 5. Furniture & Fixtures (If Furnished)

Wipe down all surfaces and polish wood
Vacuum sofas, under cushions, and armchairs
Clean dining chairs, tables, and headboards
Sanitize remote controls and drawer handles

🌿 6. Outdoor Areas (if applicable)

Tidy front and back gardens
Remove weeds from paths and driveways
Jet wash patios or decking
Empty and clean bins
Mow lawn and trim borders

🧹 7. Final Checks Before Handover

Air out the property before handover
Leave instruction manuals for appliances
Provide fresh keys and test locks
Replace any burnt-out light bulbs
Leave a welcome note or info sheet for your tenants (optional but appreciated)

📌 Why Go Pro?

Hiring a professional cleaning company like Carpella Cleaning ensures everything is done to check-out standard, saving time, reducing disputes, and helping secure better tenants.

We offer:

✅ Full end of tenancy cleaning

✅ Carpet & upholstery deep cleaning

✅ Jet washing & garden maintenance

✅ Flexible landlord packages across London