What if the house wasn’t clean when you moved in? – 2025

House Wasn’t Clean When You Moved In?

Did You Know Nearly One-Third of Australians Rent Their Homes, and Cleanliness Issues Upon Moving In Are Common?

For example, a tenant recently reported moving into a rental property with discarded items, overgrown grass, overflowing garbage, exposed power sockets, and filthy kitchen interiors, highlighting the challenges renters often face.

Introduction

Imagine this: You’ve packed up your life into boxes, bid farewell to your old home, and arrived at your new place, full of excitement and hope for a fresh start. But instead of walking into a clean, welcoming space, you’re met with dirty floors, dusty surfaces, or even unpleasant surprises left behind by the previous tenants.

It’s a scenario that can quickly turn excitement into frustration. So, what should you do if this happens? And more importantly, does your landlord have a responsibility to ensure the property is spotless before you move in.

Does the Landlord Have to Clean the House Before a Tenant Move in?

This is one of the most common—and essential—questions renters face. The answer can make or break the first impression of your new home. While there are no universal rules, most rental agreements and local regulations require landlords to provide a “reasonably clean” property at the start of a new lease. What constitutes “reasonably clean” can vary, but it generally means a home free from dirt, pests, and any obvious hazards.

For renters, the moving process is already a whirlwind of stress and uncertainty. From finding the right place to packing, planning, and adjusting to a new neighborhood, there’s a lot to manage. On top of that, if you walk into a home that doesn’t feel fresh or livable, it can feel like an added burden—one that overshadows the joy of starting anew.

The landlord is responsible for making sure the house or apartment is professionally cleaned when you move in and free of germs so that it can be lived in. He or she has to follow the rules set by the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA), which say that a safe place to live is one that is in good condition.

What does a landlord have to do to make sure a property is clean when you move in?

The landlord is responsible for making sure the place is clean and well taken care of when you move in. Here is a list of these responsibilities, and a tenant must make sure they are done before moving in.

In between renters, the place has to be cleaned very well. It is possible to hire end of lease cleaners to clean it up. Dust, dirt, knickknacks, grime, and other pollutants should not be on the property. There shouldn’t be any mould or bugs living there.

You may also like to read : Tips for Moving Out – Cleaning

Depending on the lease, the landlord may or may not ask the previous tenants to hire professional vacate cleaners to clean the place before they leave.

The air vents, windows, and doors of the property should be clean so that tenants don’t get sick from allergies or other breathing problems. The cleaning products and tools should be safe for the tenants in the rental property.

Challenges People Face When the House Isn’t Clean Upon Moving In

1. Emotional Stress
   • Moving is already stressful, and arriving at an unclean house adds to the emotional burden.
   • Frustration and disappointment can arise, especially if the new space doesn’t meet expectations.
2. Time and Effort
   • Cleaning a house before unpacking can delay the moving process, requiring extra time and effort to make the space livable.
   • Scheduling professional cleaners last minute can be costly and logistically challenging.
3. Additional Expenses
   • Buying cleaning supplies, hiring professionals, or replacing damaged items increases moving costs.
   • Issues like stained carpets or broken fixtures may require costly repairs.
4. Disputes with Landlords or Previous Tenants
   • Tenants may face disagreements with landlords regarding bond refunds or cleaning responsibilities if the property wasn’t adequately cleaned before their move.
5. Difficulty in Settling In
   • An unclean home disrupts the unpacking and settling process, causing delays in feeling comfortable and organized in the new space.

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Don’t let a dirty home spoil the excitement of your new beginning. Dirt2Tidy’s Professional Move-In Cleaning Services ensure your space is spotless, fresh, and ready for you to settle in comfortably.

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What can a renter do if the place they are renting isn’t clean?

Most rental agreements state that both parties agree that the property is clean and suitable for living in. So, if the property isn’t cleaned as agreed upon before or when the tenant moves in, the following steps can be taken by the tenant.

Talk to the landlord about the problems with cleanliness and see what the property owner does. If the property couldn’t be cleaned as agreed and the landlord is willing to make up for it, the tenant and landlord should come to a decision. Vacate cleaners can be hired by the landlord or real estate agent to do a deep clean of the property.

If the property can’t be lived in because of bad maintenance, sanitation, or hygiene, the landlord has broken the contract. If the landlord doesn’t fix the problem, the tenant can file for a breach and use the law to get out of the lease.

Negotiating Compensation for Self-Cleaning

If you find yourself shouldering the cleaning responsibilities because your new rental wasn’t properly prepared, you’re not without recourse—especially when it comes to covering the extra costs and inconvenience.

Start by documenting the condition of the property with date-stamped photos and keeping receipts for any cleaning expenses or supplies. Next, reach out to your landlord or property manager with clear communication. Explain the situation and provide your documentation as evidence. Here are a few practical options you can discuss:

• Request Reimbursement: Share your receipts and politely ask for direct reimbursement of your out-of-pocket cleaning costs. Many landlords will agree, especially when presented with proof.
• Propose a Temporary Rent Reduction: If full reimbursement isn’t on the table, you can suggest a rent reduction for one or more months to balance the extra expenses and hassle you’ve faced.
• Discuss Lease Flexibility: For extreme cases where the state of the property is well below standard and the landlord is unwilling to cooperate, you may request the option to end your lease early without penalty.

Approaching these discussions with documented evidence, a calm attitude, and a willingness to find a fair solution goes a long way. Most property managers prefer resolving these matters amicably rather than escalating them.

Start by documenting the condition of the property with photos or videos. Inform your landlord, property manager, or real estate agent immediately to address the issue.

Tip: When reaching out, be clear and polite—attach your photos as evidence and reference your lease agreement, which typically requires the property be delivered in a clean, habitable state. Here’s a sample message you can use:

Subject: Urgent: Cleaning Issue at [Your Address]

Dear [Landlord’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I recently moved into the property at [Your Address] on [Move-in Date]. Unfortunately, I discovered that the home was not cleaned prior to my arrival.

Attached are photos documenting the condition. As outlined in our lease, the property should be provided in a clean and livable state. Could you please let me know how this will be resolved?

Thank you for your prompt attention.

Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]

Clear, timely communication—and thorough documentation—not only helps resolve the issue quickly, but also protects your rights as a tenant.

Why Reach Out to Tenant Advocacy Groups or Local Housing Authorities?

If direct communication with your landlord isn’t getting results, connecting with tenant advocacy groups or local housing authorities can be a game changer. These organizations offer valuable guidance and support—they know your rights as a renter inside and out and can explain exactly what you’re entitled to in your lease or under state and local laws.

Beyond advice, tenant advocacy groups can mediate on your behalf, helping bridge communication with your landlord or property manager. Local housing authorities, meanwhile, have the power to inspect properties and enforce housing standards, which often encourages landlords to take action more quickly.

So, don’t hesitate to tap into these resources when faced with stubborn cleanliness issues—they can help you get the clean, livable space you deserve.

How to check out a place before renting it?

When planning to move into a rented house or apartment, it is smart to check the property carefully to make sure it is clean and safe to live in. Before you rent a new home, here are some things to check for in terms of cleanliness.

The carpets are clean and free of dust, hair, and other things. If the last person lived there with pets, check the carpets twice.

Benefits of Hiring Dirt2Tidy Professional Cleaning Services When the House Isn’t Clean Upon Moving In

A Fresh Start in a Spotless Home

• Dirt2Tidy ensures your new home is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized, giving you a fresh, welcoming environment to begin your journey.

Time-Saving Convenience

• Skip the hassle of deep cleaning after moving. Dirt2Tidy professionals handle everything, allowing you to focus on unpacking and settling in.

Healthier Living Environment

• Our expert cleaning services eliminate dirt, bacteria, allergens, and pests, creating a safe and healthy space for your family.

Customizable Cleaning Solutions

• Whether it’s a deep clean of the entire house or specific areas like kitchens, bathrooms, or carpets, we tailor our services to meet your needs.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

• Dirt2Tidy uses non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaning solutions, ensuring safety for your family, pets, and the environment.

Professional Results You Can Trust

• Our trained and experienced team guarantees top-notch cleaning standards, leaving no corner untouched.

Affordable and Transparent Pricing

• Enjoy high-quality cleaning at competitive rates, with no hidden costs or surprises.

Hassle-Free Booking Process

• Book online or call us to schedule your cleaning at a time that suits you best—stress-free and easy.

Peace of Mind

• Rest assured that your new home will be move-in ready, spotless, and inviting without any extra effort on your part.

How Regular Cleaning Helps Avoid Landlord Disputes

Keeping your home clean isn’t just about appearances—it can save you headaches down the road. When you maintain a tidy home with regular cleaning, you create a record of good care that’s hard to dispute.

• Protect Your Bond: With routine cleaning, you’re less likely to face deductions for “excessive cleaning” at the end of your lease.
• Prevent Build-Up: Tackling dust, grime, and mould as they appear helps avoid stubborn stains or damage that could lead to disagreements later.
• Quick Inspections, Fewer Surprises: If your landlord schedules an inspection, you’ll be ready and confident that your home meets the expected standards.
• Easy Communication: Consistent upkeep gives you solid ground in conversations about property condition, so small concerns don’t snowball into bigger issues.

Regular cleaning is a simple step that builds trust, protects your deposit, and makes every inspection stress-free, ensuring that both you and your landlord stay on the same page.

Dirt2Tidy’s Comprehensive Services

1.End-of-Lease Cleaning

• Detailed cleaning to help you secure your bond refund.
• Includes walls, carpets, kitchens, bathrooms, and more.

2. Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning

• Ensure your new or vacated home is spotless and ready for the next chapter.
• Perfect for tenants, homeowners, and landlords.

3. Regular House Cleaning

• Weekly, bi-weekly, or one-off cleaning services to keep your home pristine.
• Dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and surface cleaning included.

4. Carpet Cleaning

• Professional steam or dry cleaning to remove stains, odors, and allergens.
• Prolongs the life of your carpets.

5. Upholstery Cleaning

• Revitalize your sofas, chairs, and other furniture with deep cleaning.
• Removes dirt, stains, and allergens.

• Remove grease and grime from ovens and BBQs for a like-new shine.
• Safe and thorough cleaning methods.

7. Window Cleaning

• Includes frames, tracks, and sills.

• Sparkling, streak-free windows inside and out.

6. Oven and BBQ Cleaning

• Sparkling, streak-free windows inside and out.
• Includes frames, tracks, and sills.

8. Spring Cleaning

• Deep cleaning to refresh your home, including rarely cleaned areas.
• Ideal for seasonal cleaning or pre-event preparation.

9. Mattress Cleaning

• Steam cleaning to remove dust mites, bacteria, and odors.
• Promotes healthier sleep.

10. Pressure Washing

• High-pressure cleaning for driveways, patios, and other outdoor surfaces.
• Removes dirt, mold, and tough stains.

11. Pest Control Services

• Expert treatments for bed bugs, cockroaches, and other pests.
• Eco-friendly and effective solutions.

Why Choose Dirt2Tidy?

• Eco-friendly cleaning products.
• Experienced and trained professionals.
• Affordable pricing with no hidden charges.
• Hassle-free booking process.

Dirt2Tidy: Making Clean Simple and Stress-Free!

Check to see if any of the vents, ducts, or grills are dirty.

No mould is growing in the house.

There are no mice, cockroaches, bed bugs, or any other pests.

All of the cabinets, closets, and other storage spaces are clean.

The windows, doors, and frames are all clean.

The bathroom and kitchen are clean and free of germs.

If there is furniture in the house, make sure it is clean and doesn’t smell.

There should be no trash on the property. For properties that have just been built, the renter should check for leaks and bric-a-brac.

You may also like to read : What is a home cleaning?

If the property is in good shape and meets the tenant’s needs, it would make sense for the tenant to take pictures of the place. Taking pictures would help the renter remember what needs to be done to clean up at the end of the lease.

If the property was cleaned by professionals before the tenant moved in, the tenant must hire experienced bond cleaners to clean it again.

In conclusion,

It is the landlord’s job to rent out a property that is clean and free of germs so that the tenant can live there. So, a tenant may expect a place to be clean and free of germs and other problems before moving in.

The property could be cleaned by the people who lived there before or by Dirt2Tidy move out and move in Cleaning Perth. In any case, the lease says that it should be clean and ready for the new renter to move in.

Bonus Tips for Moving into an Unclean House

1. Start with High-Traffic Areas
   • Focus on cleaning essential spaces like the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom first to make your home functional while addressing other areas gradually.
2. Inspect for Hidden Issues
   • Check for signs of pests, mold, or leaks that might need immediate attention before settling in.
3. Use Natural Cleaners
   • If you’re tackling the cleaning yourself, opt for natural solutions like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon to clean effectively without harmful chemicals.
4. Sanitize Frequently-Touched Surfaces
   • Wipe down doorknobs, light switches, countertops, and appliances to eliminate bacteria and germs.
5. Declutter Before Cleaning
   • Remove any leftover items or debris from the previous occupants to make cleaning more efficient.
6. Hire Professional Cleaners
   • Save time and ensure a thorough cleaning by hiring professionals like Dirt2Tidy, especially for deep cleaning tasks or pest control.
7. Don’t Forget the Air
   • Open windows to ventilate your space, and consider using an air purifier to eliminate lingering odors or allergens.
8. Steam Clean Carpets and Upholstery
   • Carpets and upholstered furniture can harbor dust, dirt, and allergens. Steam cleaning ensures they’re fresh and clean.
9. Set Up a Cleaning Routine
   • Once your home is clean, establish a regular cleaning schedule to maintain a tidy and hygienic environment.
10. Check with Your Landlord or Agent

• If the house is a rental, report cleanliness issues to your landlord or agent immediately and request professional cleaning services to resolve the problem.

Pro Tip: Don’t let an unclean house ruin your move! Call Dirt2Tidy for a hassle-free, professional cleaning service and enjoy a spotless, welcoming home from day one.

FAQ: What If the House Wasn’t Clean When You Moved In?

1. What should I do if the house wasn’t clean when I moved in?

Start by documenting the condition of the property with photos or videos. Inform your landlord, property manager, or real estate agent immediately to address the issue.

2. Can I ask the landlord to arrange cleaning services?

Yes, landlords are typically responsible for ensuring the property is in a clean and livable condition before new tenants move in. You can request professional cleaning services to resolve the issue.

3. Should I clean the house myself or hire professionals?

If the cleaning required is minimal, you can handle it yourself. However, for extensive cleaning, hiring professionals like Dirt2Tidy can save time and ensure a thorough, stress-free process.

4. How do I handle pest issues in an unclean house?

Report pest infestations to your landlord, as they are responsible for pest control. You can also hire professional pest control services to ensure a pest-free living space.

5. What cleaning areas should I prioritize first?

Focus on essential spaces like the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom first. These areas are crucial for functionality and hygiene.

6. Can I deduct cleaning costs from my rent?

This depends on your lease agreement and local rental laws. Consult with your landlord or seek legal advice if you paid for cleaning due to the property’s unclean state.

7. How can I ensure the air quality is safe in a dirty home?

Open windows for ventilation, use air purifiers, and clean air vents or filters to improve indoor air quality.

8. What should I do if my landlord refuses to clean the property?

Review your lease agreement and local tenancy laws. If the landlord violates the terms, you can contact your local tenancy authority or seek legal advice.

9. Is it normal to find leftover belongings from previous tenants?

No, a rental property should be vacated and cleaned before new tenants move in. Report any leftover belongings to your landlord for proper removal.

10. Why should I consider professional cleaning services?

Professional cleaners like Dirt2Tidy can handle deep cleaning tasks efficiently, ensuring your home is spotless, hygienic, and move-in ready without adding stress to your move.