Warmer weather brings new life and an excellent opportunity for a Spring refresh of your rental property. After all, periodic deep cleaning and preventative maintenance help to keep rental properties in tip-top shape. That said, it is easy to get lost in the many tasks and forget key areas. So, to help you tackle your rental property’s seasonal needs, follow along with our Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist below.
Spring Cleaning Supplies
The first step to cleaning starts with the right supplies. Gathering these items early, or better yet, having them on hand will speed up your process. Ideally, look for all-purpose or all-surface cleaners and avoid harsh chemicals.
- Dust Rags
- All-Purpose Disinfectant Cleaner
- Toilet Bowl Cleaner
- Vacuum and Mop
- Paper Towels
- Sponges
- Glass Cleaner
- Carpet Stain Remover
- Trash Bags
- Household Air and Fabric Refresh Spray
Room-by-Room Spring Cleaning Checklist
With supplies in hand, it is time to clean! Follow along with our room by room checklist, and be sure to check out our convenient printable guide below.
- Replace Burnt Out Lightbulbs
- Dust and Disinfect All Surfaces
- Wipe Down Electronics
- Clean the Windows
- Launder Curtains
- Dust Blinds
- Vacuum Chair Cushions
- Spot Clean Walls and Touch-up with Paint as Needed
- Wipe Down Baseboard Molding
- Launder Rugs (if possible)
- Sweep and Vacuum Flooring
- Deodorize with Room Spray
Kitchen Spring Cleaning Checklist
- Replace Burnt Out Lightbulbs
- Throw Out Old Food
- Organize Pantry Items
- Clean Out or Organize Cupboards (Consider donating rarely used pots and pans to free up storage space)
- Wash Windows
- Dust Blinds
- Launder Curtains
- Wipe Down Interior of All Appliances
- Clean Exterior of Appliances with All-Purpose Cleaner
- Wipe Down Countertops and Kitchen Tables
- Clean and Disinfect the Sink
- Run the Garbage Disposal
- Wipe Down Bar Stools and Chairs
- Spot Clean Walls and Touch-up with Paint as Needed
- Wipe Down Baseboard Molding
- Take Out Any Trash
- Sweep and Mop the Floors
Bathroom Spring Cleaning Checklist
- Replace Burnt Out Lightbulbs
- Scrub the Tub and Shower Walls
- Wash or Replace the Shower Curtain
- Launder Rugs and Bathmats
- Disinfect and Scrub the Toilet and Sink
- Clean Out and Wipe Down Vanity Drawers and Cabinet
- Organize Linen Closet
- Wipe Down Vanity Counter and Fixtures
- Clean Bathroom Mirror
- Wash Windows
- Dust Blinds
- Launder Curtains
- Take Out Trash
- Spot Clean Walls and Touch-up with Paint as Needed
- Wipe Down Baseboard Molding
- Sweep and Mop Floors
- Deodorize with a Room Spray
Bedroom Spring Cleaning Checklist
- Replace Burnt Out Lightbulbs
- Dust All Furniture and Fixtures
- Declutter Closet and Consider Donating Unused Clothing
- Launder Bedding
- Flip or Rotate the Mattress
- Wash or Consider Replacing Pillows
- Launder Curtains
- Dust Blinds
- Wash Windows
- Spot Clean Walls and Touch-up with Paint as Needed
- Wipe Down Baseboard Molding
- Sweep or Vacuum Flooring
- Deep Clean Carpeting (if applicable)
- Deodorize with Room Spray
- Throw Out Bedroom Trash
Laundry Area Spring Cleaning Checklist
- Dust Light Fixtures
- Replace Burnt Out Lightbulbs
- Declutter Shelves and Storage Area
- Toss Out Old Detergent Bottles
- Wipe Down Washing Machine and Dryer
- Clean Inside the Washing Machine and Dryer
- Remove Lint and Vacuum Dryer Lint Trap
- Sweep and Vacuum Around the Washer and Dryer
- Wipe Down Baseboards
- Spot Clean Walls and Touch-up as Needed
- Mop Floors
- Throw Out Trash
- Deodorize with Room Spray
Extra Room Spring Cleaning Checklist
- Remove Clutter from Desks or Other Furniture
- Wipe Down and Disinfect All Surfaces
- Dust Blinds
- Wash Windows
- Launder Curtains
- Dust Light Fixtures
- Replace Burt Out Lightbulbs
- Spot Clean Walls and Touch-up with Paint as Needed
- Wipe Down Baseboards
- Disinfect Doorknobs
- Sweep, Vacuum, and Mop Flooring
- Launder Floorcoverings (if possible)
- Remove Trash
- Deodorize with Room Spray
Spring Preventative Maintenance Guide for Your Rental
Spring is a great time to check out the major systems in your rental property and ensure they are ready for a long hot Summer. Also, give some attention to the home’s exterior so it is ready to attract the ideal tenant this leasing season. Routine maintenance is essential, but preventative measures can help avoid costly emergencies year-round. Continue reading below for some tips on interior and exterior Spring preventative maintenance.
- Service the HVAC – Hire a qualified technician to service the HVAC, replace worn belts, and clean the unit to ensure it stays cool all summer long.
- Clean Exterior Vents – Snow and ice can hide potential issues around exterior vents which is a fire hazard. Check them each Spring and clear away any overgrown foliage and ensure proper airflow.
- Inspect Window Screens – Replace or repair any damaged or missing window screens around the home. When not properly cared for, these fixtures allow pests and insects to infiltrate the home.
- Secure Entry Points – Safety and security are important to everyone. Therefore, verify all windows and doors shut and lock properly.
- Clean the Gutters – Spring storms bring an influx of rain and debris through a home’s gutters. So, ensure the gutters are free of blockages and water flows out and away from the home’s foundation.
- Inspect the Roof – The roof keeps tenants dry and helps to maintain optimal energy efficiency. Inspect the roof at least twice per year to remove any debris and check for missing shingles or damage. If an issue is found, consult a roofing professional to schedule repairs.
- Add Curb Appeal – Spring is the perfect time to spruce up a rental property’s curb appeal. Consider adding some low-maintenance plants, native shrubbery, or colorful perennials. Furthermore, address any dead or discolored spots in the lawn with reseeding or new sod.
- Test Emergency Systems – Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors keep tenants safe, and they must be in good working order. Typically, these devices have a “test” button that owners should test at least once per year.
- Check the Thermostat – Periodically test the rental property’s HVAC thermostat to ensure accurate readings and batteries are fully charged.
- Inspect the Attic – Inspect the attic at least once per year in your rental property. Check for signs of leaks, mold, pests, and ensure there is adequate insulation to promote energy efficiency.
- Check Pipes for Damage – The last thing any owner wants is sweating, leaky, or broken pipes that can cause thousands in property damage. So, be sure to inspect exposed plumbing pipes and exterior spigots for cracks or damage from the cold winter temperatures. If pipes are “sweating,” this could signal a ventilation issue.
- Inspect the Basement – Humidity in your basement can quickly lead to a dangerous mold problem. Therefore, check to make sure the basement is properly ventilated and add a dehumidifier if needed to help control excess moisture.
For an easy and quick Spring-cleaning reference, check out our printable Spring Cleaning Checklist for Rental Properties.
Why Property Management is the Most Efficient Way to Care for Your Rental Year-Round
Maintaining a rental property is a year-round effort. That said, handling repairs and coordinating vendors with tenant schedules can be a daunting task for owners. Fortunately, hiring a Northern Virginia property management company can help take the stress out of the never-ending to-do list.
The dedicated team at Bay Property Management Group tackles everything from preventative maintenance to emergency repairs and daily operations. The property’s assigned managers keep owners informed without the hassle of communicating with tenants or organizing vendors. So, if you are looking for an easier way to elevate your rental property business, give us a call to schedule a free no-obligation rental home analysis today!