On possession day, buyers and new tenants often have a narrow gap between receiving keys and the movers arriving. If cleaning is left until after the furniture is in, it becomes far harder and far less thorough.
Know Your Timeline
- Possession times are set by your agreement and lawyer, so confirm them early
- Movers usually arrive the same day or the next morning
- Condos often require an elevator booking and specific moving hours
- Sellers or previous tenants may finish moving out shortly before you get access
A Sample Possession Day Sequence
- Confirm possession with your lawyer or landlord
- Collect keys or lockbox codes
- Cleaning crew arrives as soon as access is available
- Crew completes the agreed checklist and sends photos
- You do a quick walkthrough
- Movers arrive to a clean, empty home
Planning Tips
- Book the cleaning at the same time you book your movers
- Ask for a specific time window, not just a date
- Share the building’s rules, parking, and elevator details with your cleaner
- Have a backup plan if the sellers or tenants are late leaving
What to Prioritize if Time Is Short
- Kitchen and bathrooms first
- Inside cabinets and closets before you unpack into them
- Floors last, after everything else is done
Communicating With Everyone Involved
The cleaning company, the movers, and your agent all work better when they know the plan. A brief message confirming the sequence avoids conflicts.
If Things Slip
If the previous occupants leave late, tell your cleaner as soon as possible. A good company will adjust the schedule rather than rush the work.
My Canada Cleaning schedules move-in cleaning around Toronto and GTA possession times and moving windows, so your home is ready when the movers arrive.