Post-Renovation Cleaning Checklist

Post-Renovation Cleaning Checklist. Post-renovation refers to changes to the property that increase the building’s size and/or the building’s value. These changes usually take place after a physical renovation has been completed on the building, but before it is put back into use.

Post-renovation cleaning is a time-sensitive event, because dirt and dust particles left on surfaces may prevent further damage to materials invested in a renovation or cause hidden damage to other surfaces.

Post-renovation cleaning checklist

1. Vacuum carpet

This is a must when moving from the pre-renovation era to the post-renovation era. We are all used to anti-static carpets, but we need to take care that static electricity is not a problem during white thumbs. Most carpet manufacturers offer an anti-static solution that should prevent this problem. It is essential to check the manufacturer’s label on the carpet to ensure that the carpet will remain static-free.

2. Check for showers to drain

Showers, baths, and any water-based system should be checked for stoppages or leaks when moving from the pre-renovation era to the post-renovation era. A shower or bath should have no air pockets in the pan and an adequate supply of hot water should be available at all times.

3. Remove the bedding and sanitize the bedposts

Bed posts can become contaminated with dust, skin particles, mites, and other allergens. It is important to clean these surfaces to avoid further contamination and possible allergic reactions. The easiest way to dispose of these items is by placing them into a plastic bag. If there are materials that require special care (such as vinyl), make sure this is performed before throwing them away in plastic bags.

4. Mattress and box spring cleaning

Mattresses and box springs should be cleaned thoroughly to remove all particles, mites, skin particles, and any other form of contamination that may have occurred before the post-renovation era. Mattresses and box springs can be vacuumed or steam cleaned to eliminate dust mites, mold, bacteria, and other contaminants. This type of cleaning will give a boost to a customer’s trust in the completed work.

5. Floor cleaning

Floors may need to be cleaned to remove mud or dust particles. It is also a good idea to clean the grout between the tile. The tile should also be completely dry before the floor is polished and sealed. Use a test area before polishing and sealing the tiles.

Floors are the most affected areas of post-renovation cleaning. They are the first surfaces that bear the brunt of any physical damage caused by renovations and can often suffer from dirt and dust left behind by a renovation project.

6. Window and door cleaning

Windows and doors should be checked for marks or scratches created during a renovation project to ensure there is as little as possible dirt or dust left on the windows, doors, frames, hinges, and casings. These surfaces should be cleaned and then sealed to protect against further contamination.

7. If the project included a new roof, check for leaks

Leaks can occur on the roof long after renovations are complete. These leaks are often caused by installation errors, damage to the shingles or nails, or by damage to flashing and casings. Take caution in checking for roof leaks as water can cause severe damage to interior ceilings and plaster walls.

8. Inspect any drywall repairs

Inspection of drywall repairs will ensure that these areas are not damaged by dirt and dust left behind by the renovation. Drywall and plaster can be easily damaged even after an extensive renovation, if not properly repaired. It is important to test for cracks and leaks, just as in doing a post-renovation cleaning check.

9. Wipe down cabinets

Cabinets are difficult to keep clean and dust free during pre-renovation and some of the dust can hurt the paint finish on kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Wipe down cabinets in a post-renovation cleaning.

10. Clean stairs

Stairs can be difficult to clean properly due to the angle of the steps, the problem with interior lighting, and access difficulties. It is recommended that a separate set of stairs be used during post-renovation cleaning and that they should be recarpeted before the final coat is applied. This will ensure that stains are not left by previous use on the stairs or by water leaks occurring after the renovation project has been completed.

11. Check the first floors and entrances

First floors and entrances are particularly affected by dirt that is carried through from the ground floor. These areas should be thoroughly cleaned to remove all particles. The walls, stairs, and any other interior surfaces can be wiped clean or vacuumed to remove any visible dirt or dust before the final coat of paint is applied.

12. Wipe light fixtures

Light fixtures can become dirty due to use, or the small bits of dust and debris left behind by renovations. Light fixtures should be thoroughly wiped down before being painted. It is a good idea to wipe the fixture with a cloth soaked in white vinegar before applying a coat of sealant or paint.

13. Remove any open paint cans

If paint cans were left open and not covered, there is a strong possibility that the paint may have dried. If this is the case, it may be necessary to mix these cans with fresh materials. This is especially important if the cans were left near heat sources or in areas of high humidity.

14. Ladders and scaffolding should be removed

Most interior renovations will require a ladder or scaffolding to access inaccessible areas. It is important to remove these structures after the project is complete so that they do not interfere with post-renovation cleaning.

15. Clean out the entryway and front porch

It is a good idea to remove any dirt and debris from the entryway or front porch before the final coat is applied. This will ensure an easier time for monitoring workers as well as ensuring a better appearance during post-renovation cleaning.

16. Check for leaks around the exterior

Leaks can occur at the bottom of a door, at the point where a gutter meets a foundation, and in an area of water-damaged siding. These areas should be checked for leaks to prevent further damage.

Post-Renovation Cleaning Checklist – Conclusion

Having a post-renovation cleaning checklist will make the house look better and be safer to live in. It is recommended that customers wait at least a week after the completion of renovations before performing a post-renovation cleaning. This allows time for dust and particles to settle and makes it easier to identify any needed repairs.