(Updated May 2025)

Free Cleaning Checklist Template

I’ve helped many building management teams with inspecting their properties, and when I do a walk through, I always spot a few cleaning tasks that could easily get missed. It reminded me how critical it is for property managers to have a thorough cleaning routine for property managers in place. A well-structured rental property management cleaning checklist for when guests depart can prevent overlooked details and protect the property’s overall value. This general cleaning checklist includes essential tasks like keeping corners clean, wipe clean surfaces, and scrubbing window sills, window screens, and window tracks for a pristine finish. It also ensures larger maintenance issues aren’t forgotten—for instance, addressing plumbing fixtures or maintaining other mechanical equipment. Don’t forget important tasks like pulling weeds, cleaning exterior walks and exterior lights, or even removing chewing gum in common areas. For more intensive tasks, like cleaning elevator doors or managing professional cleaning services, this list can save time and stress.

Having a reliable checklist also means covering less-noticed areas, such as ensuring you squeegee entire garage area, clean handrails, or clean walls thoroughly. If you’re looking to streamline other essential property management processes, check out this Real Estate Listing Checklist Template for additional resources. My property management cleaning checklist to make cleaning easier and more organized. Whether you need help with routine tasks, deeper cleans, or specific areas like the garage entrance area or entire garage area, this checklist works for it all. It’s a free cleaning checklist template that will simplify your maintenance process and help you remember even the smaller details.

The checklist covers must-do tasks like scrubbing bathrooms with a toilet brush, dusting window frames, and cleaning light fixtures. It also includes some often-missed jobs like wiping down kick plates, maintaining mechanical equipment, and keeping fire extinguishers in good condition. You’ll find tips for using the right cleaning equipment and reminders to clean exterior doors so everything looks spotless.

Download my Free Property Management Cleaning Checklist

PDF, Excel, Google Sheets

Check out this rental property inspection checklist which is available for free in both PDF and Excel formats to help landlords and property managers with consistent and documented inspections.

Find helpful templates and spreadsheets offered by Joe Stephenson, REALTOR® to aid in efficient real estate management.

Rental Property Cleaning Checklist Example

Task	Description
Vacuum carpets	Thoroughly vacuum all carpets to remove dirt, dust, and debris.
Dust and clean light fixtures	Wipe down light fixtures to remove dust and ensure they are clean.
Clean ceiling fans	Dust and clean the blades of ceiling fans to prevent buildup.
Clean appliances	Deep clean all appliances, including the oven, refrigerator, and microwave.
Polish mirrors	Use glass cleaner to polish mirrors for a streak-free shine.
Clean glass surfaces	Wipe down glass tables, windows, and other glass surfaces.
Wipe light switches	Clean and disinfect light switches to remove fingerprints and germs.
Clean windows	Wash windows inside and out for a clear, streak-free finish.
Mop floors	Thoroughly mop all hard floors to remove dirt and stains.
Wipe countertops	Clean and disinfect all countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms.
Remove stains	Spot clean and remove any visible stains from surfaces or fabrics.
Disinfect countertops	Use disinfectant to sanitize countertops, especially in high-use areas.
Remove cobwebs	Check corners and ceilings for cobwebs and remove them.
Clean bathroom sinks	Scrub and disinfect bathroom sinks to remove grime and stains.
Replace or clean cabinets	Wipe down cabinet surfaces and replace any damaged or worn-out ones.
Clean bath mats	Wash or replace bath mats to ensure cleanliness.
Replace light bulbs	Check and replace any burnt-out light bulbs.
Empty trash bags	Remove all trash and replace with fresh bags.
Remove leftover food	Clear out any leftover food from the refrigerator or pantry.
Clean and organize personal belongings	Ensure all personal items are removed or neatly organized.
Scrub countertops	Thoroughly scrub countertops to remove tough stains or residue.
Clean hard surfaces	Wipe down hard surfaces like tables, shelves, and countertops.
Clean dining room areas	Dust and clean dining tables, chairs, and surrounding areas.
Clean hardwood floors	Sweep and mop hardwood floors to maintain their shine.
Remove tough or stubborn stains	Use appropriate cleaning products to tackle tough stains.
Clean exterior areas	Sweep and clean exterior spaces like patios, porches, or balconies.
Clean laundry room	Clean and organize the laundry room, including wiping down machines.
Clean swimming pool (if applicable)	Skim, clean, and ensure the pool is ready for use.

Cleaning Process for Property Management Cleaning

This timeline simplifies the cleaning process, ensuring thorough property preparation and tenant satisfaction while efficiently managing tasks and resources.

Pre-Cleaning Preparation

1). Stay Organized

• Create a detailed cleaning schedule for routine and move-out tasks.
• Use a vacation rental cleaning checklist or move out cleaning checklist to track tasks.

2). Assess Cleaning Needs

• Conduct an onsite move out inspection to identify areas needing attention, such as dirty floors, damaged furniture, or neglected spaces.
• Note any hard-to-reach areas requiring special tools or techniques.

3). Gather Cleaning Supplies

• Double check to make sure you have essential items like microfiber cloths, scrub brushes, all-purpose cleaners, and paper towels.
• Stock specific products for surfaces such as countertop material or fragile glass doors.

Start the Cleaning Process

1). Execute High-Priority Cleaning Tasks

• Remove clutter and wipe surfaces clean. Focus on eliminating dust, dirt, or grease.
• Clean and sanitize key areas, paying attention to countertops, bathrooms, and high-touch points.

2). Clean Property Interior

• Use all-purpose cleaners to tackle floors, carpets, and shelves efficiently.
• For fragile fixtures like glass doors, use appropriate cleaning tools to avoid scratches.

3). Address Kitchens and Bathrooms

• Wipe appliances/counters to remove stains or odors.

4). Cleanup Priority Messes

• If there are any large messes, such as spills or stains, address them immediately with the appropriate cleaning tools and products.
• Make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all areas of the kitchen and bathrooms.
• Don’t forget about smaller details like doorknobs, light switches, and faucets – these can be hotspots for germs.

General Cleaning Duties to Consider

Restock Cleaning Supplies

As you go through the cleaning process, take note of any supplies that are running low or empty. Make a list of items that need to be restocked, such as paper towels, scrub brushes, or all-purpose cleaners. It’s important to keep a well-stocked supply of cleaning products on hand to ensure efficient and thorough cleaning in the future. Consider using eco-friendly and non-toxic cleaning products to reduce harmful chemicals in your home.

Declutter and Organize

Clutter can make a space look messy and also attract dust and dirt. Take some time to declutter surfaces, cabinets, and drawers in your kitchen and bathrooms. Donate or discard any unused or unnecessary items. Organize remaining items in designated spaces for easy access and maintenance.

Clean Air Vents and Filters

Don’t forget about the air quality in your home. Clean air vents and replace filters regularly to ensure proper ventilation. This will help remove dust, allergens, and other pollutants from the air.

Deep Clean Carpets and Upholstery

Over time, dust and dirt can build up in carpets and upholstery, causing them to look dull and dirty. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service or renting a steam cleaner to deep clean these areas. Alternatively, you can also use DIY methods such as using baking soda and vinegar to freshen up carpets and upholstery.

Don’t Forget the Little Things

There are small tasks that often get overlooked but can make a big difference in keeping your home clean:

• Wipe down light switches, doorknobs, and other frequently touched surfaces with disinfectant wipes.
• Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures.
• Clean out the inside of your microwave and oven.
• Wash curtains, bedding, and throw blankets regularly.

Check Back for Updates to our Move Out Cleaning Checklist and Best Practices

Stay up-to-date of your cleaning duties by subscribing and checking back regularly for updates to our cleaning checklist for property managers. We’re constantly adding new insights on topics like pest control, creating efficient routines for building management teams, and ensuring every property is professionally cleaned with attention to detail.

I’m exploring different ideas to improve the property management cleaning checklist, like creating an exterior cleaning routine that focuses on hard to reach areas and tough spots, including things like garbage dust. Adding these routines can help property managers stay on top of their cleaning duties and save money by preventing bigger maintenance issues.

If you’re preparing for guest arrival or looking to cut costs on professional cleaning, our updated guides will help you tackle tasks like cabinet repairs, managing cleaning staff, and organizing your efforts with a printable general cleaning checklist in PDF and Excel format that’s perfect for building management teams. Follow our advice can help ensure you secure the full security deposit every time.

About the Author