In nine out of 10 cases, carpeting, curtains and soft furnishings need deep-cleaning after a tenant moves out.
We offer prompt, reliable end-of-tenancy cleaning for Cape Town landlords.
Through expert deep-cleaning of carpets and upholstery, we help make the process of finding new tenants (or moving back in yourself) faster, easier and more pleasant.
Move-out cleaning in Cape Town: what we offer
Our end-of-tenancy cleaning service focuses on the high-traffic, high-use items that typically need cleaning, refreshing and sanitising.
Carpets, curtains, mattresses and furnishings collect dirt, dust, soils and stains. That’s not the only issues we deal with. Infestations of mites, mould, bed bugs and fleas are common.
Our cleaning teams are equipped with specially formulated detergents and powerful suction, steam and vacuum machines designed to extract deep-seated organisms, pathogens and grime.
Once our work is completed, stains, soils and bugs are gone, leaving a fresh, clean and odour-free property ready for the next occupant.
What we don’t offer is debris removal, washing of walls, cupboards, sinks, baths and floors, or general repairs.
DIY tips for move-out cleaning
If you decide to DIY, a cleaning strategy and the use of appropriate cleaning products can save time and effort.
Ideally, start with the rooms with the least mess and grime, and clean the insides of cupboards, drawers and appliances.
Follow that with a top-to-bottom approach. Start with the ceiling, and the ceiling fans, light fittings and pelmets, and work your way down the walls to the floor.
The job is much easier when you use bleach-based products for sanitary ware, floor cleaner for the floors, oven cleaner for the oven and hob, and so on.
Leave heavy cleaning of carpets, curtains, blinds and upholstery to the end. If you’ve run out of time or have taken on more than you can manage, call in the professionals – or you may delay the process of getting a new tenant.
Always fix minor repairs, and never underestimate the impact of a quick repaint. It’s the quickest way to make a property look clean and inviting.
End-of-tenancy cleaning checklists
Whether you’re a tenant seeking full recovery of the security deposit, or a landlord wanting to impress potential lodgers, an end-of-tenancy cleaning checklist can ensure positive results.
Here are a few online resources that can streamline the cleaning process:
- end-of-tenancy checklist
- end-of-tenancy cleaning checklist
- essential move-out cleaning checklist
- the ultimate end-of-tenancy cleaning checklist.
End-of-tenancy cleaning and tenant deposit requirements
In South Africa, tenants have a legal responsibility to leave the property clean and in good condition. Leeway is given for fair wear and tear.
However, if a tenant has left a property in a grimy condition, or has damaged it in such a way that it’s not considered fair wear and tear, the costs of cleaning and/or repairs are calculated and deducted from the deposit before it’s handed over.
What’s key is the property is clean and restored to pristine condition before it is available for viewings. The goal of any landlord is a stable occupancy rate. Chelsea Cleaning can help achieve that.


