How to Get Rid of Horrid Smells Tenants Leave Behind
Imagine walking into a rental property only to be hit with an overwhelming stench that makes you question if your sense of smell has betrayed you.
Horrid smells in your rental unit are the quickest way to scare away potential tenants. So, this is one of the things you DEFINITELY need to take care of before showing the unit to any new renters.
Whether it’s the stench of cigarette smoke tingling your nostrils or the lingering aroma of spoiled food making you gag, there’s no denying that dealing with these odors can be a hassle. It can take a lot of work, but you have to take it one step at a time to see results.
Here are our tips:
#1 Open Windows and Doors to Let Air Circulate
We often forget the power of Mother Nature. Opening windows and doors to circulate fresh air can make all the difference in the world.
This should always be your first step, and keep ventilating as much as possible (ideally all day) until the smell in question is gone. It’ll also be important for the later stages of odor removal when you’ll be using some pretty heavy chemicals to eliminate bad smells in your rental.
#2 Clean the Carpet
Whether it’s pet accidents, spills, or just general wear and tear, carpets can hold onto odors like nobody’s business.
Cleaning your carpet is key to removing that horrid odor.
Now, you could try doing it yourself with a store-bought or rented carpet cleaner, but let’s be real here—it takes a lot of your time to do, and might not be as effective as a deep clean by carpet specialists. So, another option is leaving it to the professionals to get the job done.
#3 Scrub the Hard Surfaces
The nasty odor problem may lie in your hard surfaces, too. Gunk can build up over time, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and bad smells. It can also be a leftover odor from cooking.
The most straightforward solution is to scrub and sanitize those surfaces. Use a good cleaner and some elbow grease to scrub away all the dirt, then go over it with a sanitizer to kill any lingering bacteria. Remember to target areas like countertops, floors, backsplashes, and walls.
A Good Smelling Unit Makes a Big Difference
A few simple changes in your rental property can significantly improve the air quality and overall cleanliness.
By opening windows and doors to let fresh air circulate, you’re reducing that musty odor and bringing in natural scents and a feeling of freshness. Keeping carpets clean gets rid of the lingering smells from dirt and pet accidents. Cleaning hard surfaces will get rid of any old cooking odor that has been stuck on the walls for months.
These are just a few things that you can do on your right off the bat as a landlord. If you think you’re too busy with the other parts of your business, hiring professionals is always possible.
Do you have rental properties in Metro Detroit? Contact us today to find out how we can help your business.