A Cleaning Challenge Like No Other
Evictions are challenging situations for property owners and tenants alike. While the legalities take center stage, the aftermath can leave a lasting impression, especially in the condition of the rental unit. After a tenant eviction in Calgary, we were called in to restore an apartment that had been left in complete disarray. From  hazardous waste to unsanitary conditions, the task was monumental.
When situations like these arise, professional intervention is critical. Local cleaning services like ours, Cactus Cleaning, specialize in turning chaotic, uninhabitable spaces into clean, safe environments. This blog post details one such transformation, showcasing the importance of professional cleaning and how it saved the apartment owner from further headaches and loss of rental value.
The Shocking Before Photos: What We Walked Into
Imagine stepping into an apartment  where every corner tells a story of neglectâpiles of trash, stains, and a lingering odor that seemed ingrained into the walls and floors. This Calgary apartment was no exception. The situation after eviction was beyond what most people would expect. Pictures of the apartment (1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 600 sq ft) before the cleaning show a space that looked abandoned for years: garbage strewn everywhere, unwashed dishes, and an odor embedded in the walls and floors
As one of the leading cleaning companies in Calgary, we knew that this was not just an ordinary cleanup but a restoration project. Our first task was to assess the situation in detail.
Assessing the Damage: The First Step to Recovery
The first step in any significant cleaning job is assessing the damage. During our initial walkthrough, we identified several issues that would need urgent attention, common to most eviction cleanups:
- Trash and Debris: Piles of garbage that had not been taken out for weeks.
- Stains and Odors: The apartment had stains on floors and walls from food, beverages, and other substances. The smell was unbearable.
- Structural Damage: Holes in walls and broken doors compounded the mess.
Each of these problems was cataloged for the cleaning crew, ensuring that nothing would be missed during the restoration process.
The Cleaning Plan: Strategy to Tackle the Chaos
To deal with this chaos, we crafted a customized cleaning plan designed to restore the apartment efficiently and thoroughly. This plan prioritized health hazards like  biohazards, followed by deep cleaning and sanitation. The process involved several specific tasks:
- Deep Cleaning: Every surface needed deep cleaning, from ceilings and walls to floors and hidden crevices. We used industrial-grade equipment and eco-friendly cleaning solutions that are effective yet safe.
- Sanitization and Disinfection: Given the conditions, disinfecting the apartment was critical. We used EPA-approved disinfectants to remove harmful bacteria and viruses, restoring hygiene.
- Odor Neutralization: We applied advanced odor-neutralizing techniques to remove lingering smells, leaving the apartment smelling fresh and clean.
By strategically tackling the apartment's worst problems first, we ensured that the final result would be not just clean but also a safe, livable space.
Meet the Team: The Clean-Up Crew
Handling a job of this magnitude requires a specialized team. For this project, we brought in a team consisting of two professional cleaners and two experienced movers. The cleaners, equipped with expertise in post-eviction cleanups, worked meticulously, while the movers efficiently handled the removal of large trash and debris. Each member played a crucial role in ensuring the apartment was thoroughly cleaned and cleared, with the team size and skill set precisely matched to the demands of this challenging cleanup.
Each team member had a specific role to play, ensuring that the job was not only completed on time but done to the highest standard. Our expertise as one of the top cleaning companies in Canada was clear in how efficiently the work was carried out.
The Transformation: Stunning After Photos
After 7,5 hours of cleaning, sanitizing, and repairs, the transformation was stunning. The apartment went from a health hazard to a clean, livable space ready for new tenants. The âafterâ photos showed:
- Clean, stain-free carpets and floors.
- Freshly painted walls and repaired structural damage.
- Sparkling bathrooms and kitchen, free from stains and odor.
The dramatic before-and-after comparison demonstrated how our cleaning process could bring even the worst situations back to life.
Check out this Before and After eviction cleaning reel from our Instagram to see the transformation
Restoring Hygiene and Safety: Disinfecting the Space
Disinfecting the apartment was essential to ensure the new tenants could move in safely. We used specialized cleaning products, including eco-friendly disinfectants, that not only cleaned surfaces but also neutralized harmful bacteria and viruses.
One of our standout practices is using green cleaning solutions that are effective but safe for both people and pets. As one of the eco-conscious local cleaning services in Calgary, we prioritize sustainability without compromising on results.
Key Takeaways: Why Professional Cleaning is Essential After Evictions
This eviction cleanup highlights the critical role that professional cleaning companies play in Calgary. Property owners facing severe cases of neglect, damage, or unsanitary conditions can benefit from expert cleaning in several important ways:
Saving Time: Cleaning up after an eviction, especially in cases of extreme disrepair, demands a substantial investment of time. Professional cleaning teams have the tools, experience, and manpower to complete the job quickly and efficiently, allowing property owners to focus on other priorities.
Preventing Long-Term Damage: Issues such as mold and persistent odors can cause significant, lasting damage if left unaddressed. Professional cleaners can tackle these problems before they escalate, ensuring the propertyâs structural integrity and helping to preserve its overall value.
Increasing Rental Appeal and Income: A property that is thoroughly cleaned and restored is far more attractive to prospective tenants. A well-maintained, fresh-smelling apartment increases the chances of securing new renters more quickly, which in turn can lead to higher rental income and less downtime between tenants.
Final Thoughts: Restoring Order After the Chaos
In situations like tenant evictions, professional cleaning is more than just a surface-level scrubâitâs a restoration process that can save property owners from costly repairs and extended vacancy periods. By investing in thorough cleaning, you restore not just cleanliness but also the apartment's potential to generate income once again.
For property owners facing similar situations, working with professional cleaners ensures peace of mind, knowing that their property is in capable hands.
FAQs About Eviction Cleanups
Q: How soon can you start the eviction clean up after the tenant has vacated the property?
A: We strive to be as prompt as possible. Typically, we can start the eviction clean up within 24 to 48 hours after the tenant has vacated the property. However, it's best to schedule in advance to ensure availability. Contact us for a personalized quote today at (403) 805-5855.
Q: How much does post-eviction cleaning cost?
A: Costs vary based on the severity of the damage and the size of the apartment. Contact Cactus Cleaning for a tailored quote at (403) 805-5855.
Q: Do you handle the removal of large items such as furniture and appliances?
A: Yes, our eviction cleaning service includes the removal of all items from the property, regardless of size. This encompasses furniture, appliances, and any other large items that may be present.
Q: What do you do with the items you remove? Are they just thrown away?
A: We are committed to eco-friendly practices. Items in good condition are often donated or recycled. We collaborate with local charities and recycling centers for this purpose. Other items that cannot be donated or recycled are disposed of responsibly in accordance with local regulations.
