Landlord Complaining About Remove Smoke smell from Rental Property? Here’s How to It Before Moving Out

Did you know that over 55% of Melbourne landlords in 2024 reported smoke odours as a top reason for bond deductions? Whether from cigarettes, incense, or cooking, smoke smells can linger — and your landlord will notice. Here s how to eliminate it before moving out and protect your bond.

Moving out of a rental property is stressful enough without having to deal with the aftermath of lingering smoke smell . Whether it s from cigarettes, cooking, or any other source, a strong smoke odor can be hard to get rid of and could lead to deductions from your bond.

Landlords may withhold part of your deposit if they are not satisfied with the condition of the property, especially when it comes to unpleasant odors like smoke.

In this blog, we’ll share effective ways to remove smoke smell before moving out , so you can leave your rental property in pristine condition and ensure a smooth transition to your next home. [lead-form form-id=1 title=Fill to Get Free Cleaning Checklist]

When you’re renting a property, keeping it in good condition is part of your agreement. Smoke smells, particularly from tobacco or cooking, can be difficult to eliminate. Landlords and property managers have the right to expect that the property is left in a habitable state. The presence of smoke odors can:

The lingering smell of smoke can make a property feel less fresh and less appealing. It can be especially challenging to remove if the smell has seeped into the carpets, upholstery, or walls. Smoke is actually made up of over 400 smelly components like ammonia, acetic acid, 3-ethenylpyridine, and hydrogen sulphide.

These particles stick to clothes, furniture, and walls, forming that stubborn odor we know—and hate.

For non-smokers, strong smoke odors can be irritating and even harmful. Mold and dust particles can cling to the smell, making it harder to fully eliminate. Smoke can cause respiratory issues or allergic reactions in some people.

The chemical components of smoke can exacerbate these concerns, as they linger in the environment long after the initial exposure. Smoking inside the home significantly contributes to the persistent odor that can be difficult to eliminate.

When tobacco smoke is released indoors, tiny smoke particles adhere to various surfaces, such as walls, ceilings, carpets, and furniture. This not only leads to unpleasant odors but can also result in long-lasting stains and potential health risks.

Even when efforts are made to improve ventilation, the residue of these particles, known as thirdhand smoke, can still cling to surfaces and fabrics within the home. This means that the smell isn t just airborne; it seeps into materials and is retained over time.

To mitigate these effects, consider smoking exclusively outside and investing in regular cleaning and air purification methods. This can help in reducing the residual smoke smell and maintaining a fresher indoor environment.

Many landlords charge tenants for cleaning or restoration services when there is a smoke smell left in the rental property. If the odor persists after you’ve moved out, the landlord may deduct cleaning fees from your bond to cover the cost of professional smoke odor removal.

Given the complex makeup of smoke, these services are often necessary to ensure a thorough clean-up.

Emptying ashtrays is a crucial step in combating the persistent smell of smoke in your home. Here s why it s important: By incorporating regular ashtray maintenance into your cleaning routine, you can effectively diminish unpleasant odors and enhance the overall atmosphere of your home.

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Before you take action to remove smoke smell before moving out , it’s important to assess the extent of the problem. Sometimes, you may not even realize how strong the smell is until you’ve been away from the property for a while.

If you’re unsure whether the smoke smell is still lingering, ask a non-smoker or a friend who has not been in the property recently for their opinion. They may be able to detect odors you might have grown accustomed to.

• Share the property type, size, condition and access information before requesting a quote.
• Identify priority rooms, surfaces, stains, pets, furniture and any inspection or handover date.
• Separate cleaning from repairs, pest treatment, plumbing, electrical or restoration work.
• Confirm inclusions, exclusions and optional services before the appointment.