Whether you are fixing your flat up because it’s outdated or you want to change things up to suit your design taste, a renovation project can completely transform your space to suit your needs. It could be a basic renovation such as remodeling your bathroom floor tiles, or it can be a full-scale one to replace your whole home.

You may think the renovation process ends after construction, but there’s technically one step left: the post-renovation cleaning. If you moved your stuff to another place for storage before starting renovations, then you probably won’t have much to clean. However, if you simply put a plastic sheet over your belongings, you’ve got a lot of deep cleaning ahead of you. Plaster dust has a way of getting everywhere.

Post-Renovation Checklist

I. Evaluate the Changes

The first thing to do after the renovation is complete is to evaluate the completed changes. Take the time to thoroughly inspect the work done by the contractors and make sure that everything is up to par. Keep an eye out for any areas that may require touch-ups or repairs, and notify the contractors or interior designer so the issues can be addressed.

Document everything with photographs so you have a record of the renovation. This will be useful for future reference if any potential issues arise and you need to dispute them.

II. Check Essential Systems

Electric

Test all switches, outlets, and lighting fixtures to ensure they are working as expected. Let the electrician know if there are any issues such as flickering lights or faulty outlets. Also, check that appliances such as fans and air conditioners are working without tripping the breaker.

Plumbing

Check all the faucets, showers, and toilets to make sure they’re functioning correctly. Make sure that the showers and faucets have working temperature control and water pressure. Look for any leaks, drips, or unusual noises. If there are any issues, contact a plumber to fix them immediately before the problems escalate into bigger ones.

Security

If you have security systems such as cameras or alarm systems, ensure they are all properly connected and working. Change the passwords to be extra safe. Test each component and consult a professional if there are any issues.

III. Clean and Declutter

Create a Schedule

This cleanup is going to take a lot of time and effort. With careful planning, you’ll be less stressed out and will be able to clean more efficiently, making the cleaning process smoother.

Start From The Top

Once the renovation is done, there will be a lot of construction debris everywhere. While you can hire professional cleaners at this stage, it’s much more cost-efficient to clean it up yourself. This is the time to deep clean your home.

Start from the top, so the dust particles will fall to the bottom and you won’t have to clean the floor twice. Make sure to wear a dust mask to avoid breathing in dust particles and getting respiratory issues. Turn off the switches for your vents, ceiling fans and light fixtures before cleaning them.

Floors, Flat Surfaces, and Cloth Furniture

Next, use a vacuum cleaner to clean the floor then go over it with a mop. Make sure you also clean under and behind large furniture like sofas, bookshelves, and tables, where dust tends to collect.

Clear all items off flat surfaces like tables and countertops, and wipe them with a damp cloth. Take the time to declutter those items so you won’t have to deal with moving so much stuff every time you clean.

For cloth furniture such as carpeted floors and sofas, make sure you get a strong vacuum cleaner to get all the dust particles that get stuck in the fibres.

Closets and Cabinets

Check on your clothes and your bedsheets. Dust has a way of getting into every nook and cranny, no matter how much you try to cover them during construction, so it’s better to just wash them before you use them. The same goes for your dishes in the kitchen.

Move Back In

Once everything on the post-renovation checklist is complete, it’s time to move back in and enjoy your new home. Renovating a space is a major project that takes a lot of time, effort, and money, but it is worth it in the end.

Keep your electric and plumbing systems up to date and deep clean your home every once in a while. It is important to maintain your home to make the entire renovation worth it, and so you won’t have to renovate again for a long while.

In the meantime, celebrate your hard work by hosting a gathering with your family and friends so they can see the fruits of your labour.