End of tenancy cleaning is consistently profitable, has constant demand, and pays premium rates. Here’s your complete guide to building a successful tenancy cleaning business that generates steady income and satisfied clients.
Here’s a straightforward question: would you rather spend 3 hours doing regular domestic cleaning for £48, or spend 8-10 hours doing end of tenancy cleaning for £220-£280?
The hourly rate is similar (£16/hour vs £22-£28/hour), but the business model is completely different.
End of tenancy cleaning offers exceptional opportunities for professional cleaners. The demand is constant (people move constantly, especially at month-ends). The pricing is premium (clients need it done properly, will pay for quality). The work is consistent (follows predictable standards). And once you’re established as reliable, letting agents and landlords send you regular referrals.
But here’s what you need to understand: end of tenancy cleaning has specific, non-negotiable standards. Letting agents are extremely particular. Tenants’ deposits depend on your work. And if you don’t deliver adequate results, you’ll be called back to rectify (at your expense) or damage your reputation permanently.
This isn’t regular domestic cleaning where “good enough” suffices. This is contractually-driven cleaning where “professionally clean to a high standard” is the literal requirement, and letting agents inspect with checklists and cameras.
This comprehensive guide will teach you everything about building a profitable end of tenancy cleaning business: the exact standards required, how to price for maximum profit, efficient systems for thorough work, marketing strategies to generate constant bookings, and how to build relationships with letting agents and landlords for steady referral income.
Master end of tenancy cleaning, and you’ll unlock a profitable, scalable business with predictable demand.
Why End of Tenancy Cleaning Is Such a Brilliant Business Opportunity
Let’s start with the financial and strategic reasons this matters.
The Economics Are Excellent
Typical end of tenancy job (3-bed house):
- Client pays: £220-£280
- Your time: 8-10 hours (including travel)
- Cleaning supplies: £8-£15
- Fuel: £5-£8
- Net profit: £197-£257 for one day’s work
Compare to regular domestic cleaning:
- 8 hours at £16/hour = £128 revenue
- Supplies and fuel: £5-£8
- Net profit: £120-£123 for same time
End of tenancy cleaning earns roughly double per day compared to regular cleaning.
The maths gets even better at scale:
- Two 3-bed end of tenancy cleans per week = £400-£560 weekly
- That’s £20,800-£29,120 annually from just 16-20 hours weekly
- Add regular cleaning clients for diversified income
Constant, Predictable Demand
People move constantly:
- Average tenancy length in UK: 2-3 years
- Approximately 4-5 million rental households
- That’s roughly 1.5-2 million tenancy turnovers annually
- Plus people buying/selling homes
Demand peaks are predictable:
- Month-ends (when most tenancies expire)
- Academic year transitions (student properties)
- Summer months (traditional moving season)
- Pre-Christmas (people want settled before holidays)
Unlike seasonal services, end of tenancy cleaning provides year-round income with predictable busy periods.
Premium Pricing Is Accepted
Clients understand this is specialist work:
- Their deposits depend on it (typically 4-6 weeks’ rent = £800-£2,400)
- Letting agents are strict
- Professional cleaning is contractually required
- DIY failure means deposit deductions
This means clients pay premium rates willingly because inadequate cleaning costs them more.
You can charge 30-50% more than regular cleaning and clients accept it because they understand the stakes.
Repeat Business Through Referrals
End of tenancy cleaning naturally generates ongoing income:
Letting agents: Once you prove yourself reliable, letting agents refer you constantly. One agent managing 50-100 properties generates steady work.
Landlords: Landlords with multiple properties need cleaning between every tenancy. Build relationship with landlord owning 5-10 properties, and you have regular income stream.
Estate agents: Vendors want properties pristine for viewings. Estate agents recommend cleaners they trust.
Word of mouth: Satisfied tenants recommend you to friends moving house.
The business model is ideal: Initial clients become referral sources, reducing marketing costs whilst increasing volume.
Scalable Business Model
End of tenancy cleaning scales beautifully:
Solo operator: You can easily do 2-3 end of tenancy cleans weekly solo, earning £400-£800+ weekly.
Small team: Hire 1-2 assistants, complete 5-8 properties weekly, earn £1,200-£2,000+ weekly.
Larger operation: Multiple teams, 15-25 properties weekly, revenue of £3,500-£7,000 weekly.
Many successful cleaners build substantial businesses entirely on end of tenancy work.
Lower Physical Wear Than Expected
Surprisingly, end of tenancy cleaning is often less physically demanding than regular domestic cleaning:
Why:
- Properties are usually empty (easy access, no working around furniture)
- Work systematically through one property (not rushing between multiple)
- Can take breaks (no client watching clock)
- Mental satisfaction (visible transformation)
Many cleaners find it less exhausting than full day of regular domestic work, despite longer hours per property.
Understanding the Required Standards
You cannot succeed at end of tenancy cleaning without understanding exactly what’s required.
The Contractual Benchmark
Tenancy agreements typically state: “Property must be returned to the condition shown in check-in inventory, fair wear and tear excepted, professionally cleaned to a high standard.”
This means:
- Compare to check-in photos/inventory
- Account for reasonable wear based on tenancy length
- But absolutely no dirt, grime, or neglect
Your job: Make property look as close to check-in condition as reasonably possible through thorough cleaning.
What “Fair Wear and Tear” Means
Acceptable (not your problem):
- Minor scuff marks from furniture
- Slight carpet wear in high-traffic areas
- Natural colour fading from sun exposure
- Small nail holes from pictures
- General aging appropriate to tenancy length
NOT acceptable (must be cleaned):
- Dirt and grime anywhere
- Limescale buildup
- Grease accumulation
- Carpet stains
- Mould in bathrooms
- Food debris in kitchen
- Dust accumulation
- General uncleanliness
Your work addresses cleanliness, not damage. If there’s actual damage (broken tiles, holes in walls), that’s tenant’s responsibility, not yours.
The Letting Agent’s Inspection Checklist
Understanding what they check helps you deliver:
They’ll inspect with specific checklist covering:
- Oven interior (number one complaint area)
- All appliance interiors
- Inside all cupboards and drawers
- Top of cupboards (always checked, often missed)
- Behind and under appliances
- Bathroom fixtures for limescale
- Grouting condition
- Skirting boards entire perimeter
- Light fixtures and switches
- Windows and sills
- Behind radiators
- Carpet condition
Professional inspection takes 30-60 minutes with detailed notes and photos.
Your cleaning must pass this inspection. If it doesn’t, you’re recalled to rectify (at your expense if you guarantee your work).
Your End of Tenancy Cleaning Checklist
This is your professional template for consistent results:
Kitchen (2.5-4 hours typically)
Oven and hob: ☐ Oven interior completely clean (racks, glass, walls, floor, elements)
☐ Oven racks and trays spotless
☐ Oven exterior clean
☐ Hob surface spotless (burner caps, pan supports, control knobs)
☐ Gap between hob and worktop clean
Appliances: ☐ Fridge/freezer: Empty, defrosted, interior clean, seals clean, exterior spotless, behind and underneath
☐ Dishwasher: Filter clean, interior wiped, exterior spotless
☐ Washing machine: Drum, seal, detergent drawer, filter, exterior all clean
☐ Microwave: Interior spotless, turntable washed, exterior clean
☐ All other appliances: Kettle, toaster, etc. all clean
Cupboards and storage: ☐ Inside every cupboard cleaned (shelves, sides, doors)
☐ Outside all cupboard doors clean
☐ Top of cupboards cleaned (grease removal)
☐ Inside all drawers cleaned
☐ Under-sink area clean
Surfaces and walls: ☐ All worktops clean and descaled
☐ Splashback and tiles degreased
☐ Sink completely descaled, taps spotless
☐ Walls spot-cleaned
☐ Extractor fan: Hood and filters degreased
☐ Windows and sills clean
Finishing: ☐ Floor swept, mopped, edges and corners clean
☐ Behind appliances cleaned
☐ Skirting boards complete perimeter
☐ Light fixtures and switches clean
☐ Door and frame clean
Bathroom (1-2 hours per bathroom)
Fixtures: ☐ Toilet: Bowl descaled, under rim, exterior, base, behind
☐ Sink: Completely descaled, plughole clear, pedestal clean
☐ Bath: Scrubbed, descaled, taps spotless, surrounding tiles clean
☐ Shower: Tray/cubicle clean, screen descaled, head descaled, tiles spotless, grout as white as possible
Storage and surfaces: ☐ Inside all cabinets
☐ Mirrors spotless
☐ All tiles clean, grouting detailed
☐ Extractor fan grille clean
☐ Light fixtures clean
Finishing: ☐ Walls washed down
☐ Floor clean, edges and corners
☐ Radiator clean including behind
☐ Skirting boards
☐ Door and frame
Bedrooms and Living Areas (Per room: 45-90 minutes)
Detailed cleaning: ☐ Skirting boards complete perimeter
☐ Walls spot-cleaned
☐ Light fixtures clean
☐ Switches and sockets
☐ Radiators including behind
☐ Window sills, frames, and glass
☐ Doors and frames
☐ Built-in wardrobes inside and out
Floors: ☐ Carpets hoovered thoroughly (or professionally cleaned if required)
☐ Hard floors swept and mopped
☐ Under beds (if accessible)
☐ Behind radiators
Hallways and Stairs
☐ Stairs: Each step cleaned
☐ Bannisters: All spindles and rails
☐ Walls spot-cleaned
☐ Skirting boards complete length
☐ Light fixtures
☐ Any storage cupboards inside
☐ Front door interior
What’s Typically NOT Required
Standard end of tenancy doesn’t usually include:
- Garden (unless specified in quote)
- Exterior windows (unless specified)
- Garage/shed (unless specified)
- Loft/attic
- Wall painting
- Repairs
Always clarify scope in your quote to prevent disputes.
Equipment and Supplies You Need
Professional end of tenancy cleaning requires proper equipment.
Essential Cleaning Equipment
Heavy-duty supplies:
- Commercial hoover (powerful, reliable – domestic hoovers inadequate)
- Mop and bucket (professional quality)
- Steam cleaner (optional but helpful for grout, taps, tough grime)
- Extension leads (properties often have limited accessible sockets)
- Step ladder (reaching high cupboards, light fixtures)
- Scraper blades (removing burnt-on oven grime)
Hand tools:
- Multiple microfibre cloths (20-30 minimum)
- Scouring pads (various grades)
- Scrub brushes (various sizes)
- Old toothbrushes (detail work on taps, grouting, corners)
- Grout brush
- Squeegee (windows)
- Pumice stone (toilet descaling)
Containers:
- Pump spray bottles
- Bucket with caddy organiser
- Heavy-duty bin bags (for debris)
Essential Cleaning Products
For end of tenancy work, you need professional-grade products:
Kitchen:
- Heavy-duty oven cleaner (Mr Muscle Oven Cleaner or similar)
- Degreaser (for extractor fans, top of cupboards)
- All-purpose cleaner
- Washing-up liquid (surprisingly effective for many tasks)
Bathroom:
- Strong limescale remover (Viakal, Cillit Bang, or HG Professional)
- Bathroom cleaner
- Toilet cleaner
- Mould remover (essential for neglected properties)
General:
- Glass cleaner
- Floor cleaner
- Descaler
- Bicarbonate of soda (gentle abrasive)
- White vinegar (descaling, glass)
- Disinfectant
Total initial investment in supplies: £80-£120
Ongoing cost per job: £8-£15 depending on property condition.
Optional But Valuable Equipment
Steam cleaner (£80-£200): Excellent for grouting, taps, baked-on grime. Not essential but speeds work and improves results.
Carpet cleaner (if offering carpet cleaning): See carpet cleaning guide for equipment options (£500-£3,000 investment).
Professional window cleaning tools: If offering exterior windows, invest in proper squeegee, extension pole, and solution.
Pricing Your End of Tenancy Services
Get pricing right, and you’ll maximise profit whilst remaining competitive.
Understanding Market Rates 2025
National averages:
London and South East:
- Studio/1-bed: £120-£200
- 2-bed: £160-£250
- 3-bed: £220-£350
- 4-bed: £280-£450
- 5-bed: £350-£550
Major cities:
- Studio/1-bed: £100-£170
- 2-bed: £140-£220
- 3-bed: £190-£300
- 4-bed: £240-£380
- 5-bed: £300-£480
Other regions:
- Studio/1-bed: £90-£150
- 2-bed: £120-£190
- 3-bed: £170-£280
- 4-bed: £220-£350
- 5-bed: £280-£450
Your Pricing Strategy
Research thoroughly: Check 5-10 competitors on Trader Street and other platforms. Note their pricing. Position yourself competitively.
Starting out: Price at market average or slightly below (10-15% less) to build portfolio and reviews.
Once established (15-20 jobs completed with good reviews): Increase to top end of market rate. Quality end of tenancy cleaners command premium pricing.
Package options work well:
Basic end of tenancy:
- Standard thorough clean
- Does NOT include carpet cleaning
- Lowest price option
Standard package (most popular):
- End of tenancy clean
- Carpet cleaning included
- Interior windows included
- Best value positioning
Premium package:
- Everything in standard
- Exterior windows
- Garden tidy
- Any additional services
Packages typically priced 10-20% below buying services separately (encourages clients to book complete service).
What to Charge Extra For
Include in base price:
- Complete end of tenancy clean (as per your detailed checklist)
- Interior windows
- Basic oven clean (interior and exterior)
Charge additional for:
- Professional carpet cleaning: £25-£45 per room (or include in standard package)
- Exterior windows: £30-£60
- Garden clearance: £50-£150 (depends on size and work required)
- Garage/shed: £30-£80
- Extremely poor condition premium: +20-50% (heavy neglect)
- Same-day/urgent service: +30-50%
- Weekend or evening work: +20-30%
Quoting Accurately
For accurate quotes, gather information:
Essential questions:
- Property size (bedrooms, bathrooms)
- Property condition (honest assessment)
- Furnished or empty (empty is easier)
- Carpets requiring professional cleaning?
- Windows interior only or both sides?
- Garden included?
- Move-out date (urgency affects price)
- Access details
Request photos if uncertain about property condition.
Quote in writing always (prevents disputes).
Time Estimates for Scheduling
Realistic time requirements:
Studio/1-bed: 4-6 hours solo
2-bed flat: 6-8 hours solo
2-bed house: 7-9 hours solo
3-bed house: 8-12 hours solo (6-8 hours with assistant)
4-bed house: 12-16 hours solo (8-10 hours with team of 2-3)
5-bed house: 16-24 hours solo (10-14 hours with team)
Working with assistant(s) speeds work dramatically and maintains quality.
Calculating Your Minimum Profitable Rate
Work backwards from income goal:
Example:
- Desired annual income: £40,000
- Working weeks: 46
- Weekly income needed: £870
- Want to work 25 hours/week maximum
- Required hourly equivalent: £34.80
Average end of tenancy job:
- Time: 10 hours
- Materials: £12
- Fuel: £8
- Minimum revenue needed: 10 × £34.80 = £348 + £20 costs = £368
But add overhead buffer:
- Marketing, insurance, equipment maintenance, gaps between jobs
- Realistic minimum: £400-£450 for this job
This translates to pricing 4-bed houses at £380-£450 in your region.
Never price too low. Cheap pricing attracts wrong clients (those who’ll complain about anything to avoid paying), and you can’t deliver quality work whilst rushing.
Building Relationships with Letting Agents and Landlords
This is where steady, predictable income comes from.
Why Letting Agents Are Valuable
One letting agent relationship can generate:
- 5-15 end of tenancy cleans monthly
- Consistent work year-round
- Predictable income
- Less marketing needed
- Professional credibility (agents vet cleaners)
Agents managing 50-100 properties experience constant turnover. If you’re their preferred cleaner, you have steady pipeline.
Approaching Letting Agents Professionally
Initial contact strategy:
Research local agents:
- Identify 10-15 letting agents in your area
- Prioritise larger agencies (more properties)
Professional introduction:
Email template:
“Dear [Agent Name],
I’m a professional end of tenancy cleaning specialist operating in [area]. I provide thorough cleaning services that consistently pass letting agent inspections, helping ensure smooth tenancy transitions.
I offer:
- Detailed end of tenancy cleaning to professional standards
- Work guarantee (I return and rectify if issues arise)
- Flexible scheduling (including evenings/weekends)
- Competitive pricing
- Full insurance
- Cleaning certificates provided
I’d welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can support your tenancy turnovers. I’m happy to provide references from other letting agents I work with.
Could we arrange a brief meeting to discuss your requirements?
Best regards, [Your name] [Contact details] [Website/Trader Street profile link]”
Follow up with phone call 3-4 days later if no response.
What Letting Agents Want
Understand their priorities:
Reliability: They need cleaners who show up on time, every time. Miss appointments, and you’re dropped.
Quality: Their reputation depends on property presentation. Inadequate cleaning causes complaints.
Flexibility: Tenancies end unpredictably. Agents need cleaners available at short notice.
Communication: Quick responses, clear updates, professional interaction.
No comebacks: They want cleaners who get it right first time, minimal rectification calls.
Deliver these consistently, and you become their preferred supplier.
Building the Relationship
Start with trial: Most agents won’t commit immediately. They’ll try you on 1-2 properties first.
Deliver exceptional results on these trial jobs:
- Arrive punctually
- Work thoroughly
- Document with photos
- Communicate proactively
- Pass inspection first time
After successful trials:
- Request more regular work
- Offer preferential scheduling
- Provide excellent service consistently
Within 3-6 months of consistent quality, you can become their primary cleaner.
Negotiating Rates with Agents
Agents often want discounts (volume trade-off).
Acceptable discount structure:
- Retail rate (individual tenants): £280 for 3-bed house
- Agent rate (volume work): £250 for 3-bed house
- 10-15% discount for consistent volume
Lower profit per job but higher volume and consistency often works out better financially.
Never discount so much you can’t deliver quality. Rushing to maintain margins produces poor results.
Marketing Your End of Tenancy Cleaning Services
Beyond agent relationships, you need direct client bookings.
Optimising Your Trader Street Profile
Profile must emphasise end of tenancy specialisation:
Headline: “End of Tenancy Cleaning Specialist | Deposit Back Guarantee | Letting Agent Approved”
Service description:
“I specialise exclusively in professional end of tenancy cleaning, helping tenants secure full deposit return and landlords prepare properties for new tenants.
What I provide:
- Comprehensive deep clean to letting agent standards
- Detailed checklist covering all areas
- Professional cleaning products and equipment
- Oven deep clean (interior and exterior)
- Complete limescale removal
- Inside all cupboards and appliances
- Skirting boards, light fixtures, all surfaces
- Carpet cleaning available (professional hot water extraction)
- Interior window cleaning
Experience:
- [X] years specialist end of tenancy cleaning
- [X] successful tenancy cleans completed
- Work with [letting agent names if permitted]
- [X%] deposit return success rate
- Full insurance
Guarantee: If letting agent identifies any issues with the clean, I return and rectify at no additional cost.
Pricing: Studio/1-bed: £[XX] 2-bed: £[XX] 3-bed: £[XX] Package deals including carpets available
Availability: Flexible scheduling including weekends and evenings.
Professional cleaning certificate provided.
References available from tenants and letting agents.”
This positions you as specialist, not general cleaner dabbling in end of tenancy work.
Seasonal Marketing
Promote strategically to demand cycles:
Month-end focus: “Month-end tenancies ending? Book your professional end of tenancy clean now. Limited availability.”
Summer peak: “Moving season: Professional end of tenancy cleaning. Secure your deposit with letting-agent-approved cleaning.”
Student property season: “Student tenancies ending? Specialist end of tenancy cleaning for student properties. Understand council standards.”
Pre-Christmas: “Moving before Christmas? Professional end of tenancy cleaning with fast turnaround.”
Building Your Reputation
Reviews are absolutely crucial for end of tenancy work:
Request reviews strategically:
“I’m so glad the letting agent approved the clean and you’re getting your deposit back! Reviews really help my business. Would you mind leaving a review mentioning:
- That the letting agent approved the clean
- That you got your deposit back
- The thoroughness of the service
Here’s the link: [profile link]
Thank you so much!”
Reviews mentioning deposit return are gold for attracting similar clients.
Targeting Landlords Directly
Landlords are excellent clients:
- Need cleaning between every tenancy
- Multiple properties generate regular work
- Often willing to pay premium for reliable cleaner
- Less price-sensitive than tenants (claim against tenant deposit)
Finding landlords:
- Property investor networking events
- Local property management groups
- Online property forums
- Direct mail to rental properties (get addresses from Land Registry)
Offer:
- Fast turnaround (minimise void periods)
- Flexible scheduling
- Property preparation beyond cleaning (changing locks, minor repairs if you offer these)
- Regular partnership for their portfolio
One landlord with 8-10 properties can provide substantial ongoing income.
Delivering Exceptional Results
You’ve got the booking. Now deliver work that passes inspection.
Your Systematic Process
Follow consistent system for every job:
1. Pre-job preparation:
- Review booking details
- Load all equipment and supplies
- Plan route and parking
- Confirm access details
2. Arrival and assessment (10-15 minutes):
- Access property
- Photograph each room (before photos)
- Assess condition
- Mentally plan task order
- Set up equipment
3. Systematic cleaning (main work):
- Start with kitchen (most time-intensive)
- Bathrooms next
- Bedrooms and living areas
- Hallways and stairs
- Work through your checklist methodically
4. Quality control inspection (15-20 minutes):
- Walk through every room with checklist
- Check commonly-missed areas (top of cupboards, behind appliances)
- Test surfaces (run finger along top of cupboards)
- Additional spot-cleaning as needed
- Photograph each room (after photos)
5. Final touches:
- Open windows briefly (fresh air)
- Turn off all lights
- Secure property
- Remove all rubbish and equipment
6. Documentation:
- Complete internal checklist
- Make notes of any pre-existing damage
- Prepare cleaning certificate/invoice
Total time: Adheres to your quote estimate.
The Priority Areas Agents Always Check
Focus extra attention on:
Oven interior: Single most common complaint. Invest time here. Must be completely clean.
Top of kitchen cupboards: Always checked, often neglected. Grease removal essential.
Bathroom fixtures (taps, shower, toilet): Must be completely descaled. No visible limescale.
Grouting: Should be as white as possible. Use grout brush and appropriate cleaner.
Behind and under appliances: Pull out fridge, cooker, washing machine. Clean behind and underneath.
Skirting boards: Entire perimeter of every room. Dusted and wiped.
Get these areas perfect, and you’ll pass 95% of inspections.
Time Management and Efficiency
Work efficiently without rushing:
Kitchen timing: Allocate 2.5-4 hours depending on size and condition. Don’t rush oven – it’s worth extra time.
Bathroom timing: 45-90 minutes per bathroom. Descaling takes time – be patient.
Other rooms: 45-90 minutes each depending on size and contents.
Build in buffer time: Always estimate conservatively. Better to finish early than run over and compromise quality.
Take short breaks: 5-10 minutes every 2 hours maintains stamina and quality.
When Properties Are Very Dirty
Occasionally you encounter extremely neglected properties:
If significantly worse than described:
- Stop and photograph
- Contact client immediately
- Renegotiate price (additional cost justified)
- Document agreement in writing
- Only proceed once agreement reached
Never absorb major additional work without compensation. Your quote was based on condition described.
If proceeding:
- Allocate more time
- May require second visit for thorough results
- Charge appropriately for extra work
Handling Problems and Complaints
Not everything goes perfectly. Handle problems professionally.
When Letting Agents Reject Your Clean
Occasionally happens even with good work.
Immediate response:
- Don’t be defensive
- Request specific details of issues
- Request photos if not provided
- Review against your own photos
Assess legitimacy:
Legitimate issues:
- Genuinely missed areas
- Inadequate cleaning of specific items
- Fair criticism
Questionable issues:
- Unrealistic expectations (expecting perfection beyond check-in condition)
- Extremely minor complaints (one tiny spot missed)
- Trying to avoid paying (rare but happens)
Your response to legitimate issues: “I apologise for those oversights. I’ll return tomorrow morning and address all points raised. I guarantee you’ll be completely satisfied.”
Return promptly and rectify. This builds reputation for standing behind your work.
Your response to questionable issues: “I’d like to discuss these points. From the check-in inventory photos, the [area] was in [similar condition]. Could we review this together?”
Most agents reasonable when you’re professional and willing to discuss.
When Tenants Claim Inadequate Cleaning
Tenant claims clean wasn’t adequate after you’ve left:
First, verify:
- Check your photos (you took before/after, right?)
- Review what was specifically contracted
- Assess whether complaint is legitimate
If legitimate:
- Apologise and offer to rectify
- Return and address specific issues
- No charge if you genuinely failed to deliver
If questionable:
- Refer to your photos and checklist
- Explain what was completed
- Offer to discuss with letting agent directly
Having thorough documentation protects you in disputes.
Managing Unrealistic Expectations
Some clients expect miracles:
- Ancient limescale completely removed
- Grouting looking brand new
- Carpets looking new (when old and worn)
Manage expectations upfront: “I’ll clean this to the highest professional standard. However, some staining and wear is permanent and beyond cleaning to resolve. I’ll do everything possible within cleaning scope.”
Document pre-existing damage: Before photos showing very old stains or damage protect you from blame.
Insurance and Liability
Essential protection:
Public liability insurance (minimum £2 million): Covers accidental damage to property.
Treatment risk cover: Specific coverage for cleaning-related issues (chemical damage, etc.).
Cost: £200-£400 annually for comprehensive coverage.
Worth every penny. One claim without insurance could bankrupt your business.
Always check your policy covers end of tenancy specifically – some policies exclude certain work types.
Scaling Your End of Tenancy Business
Once established, strategic growth increases income substantially.
Adding Team Members
When you have more work than you can handle solo:
Hiring strategy:
- Start with one assistant
- Pay fairly (£14-£18/hour for good assistant)
- Train thoroughly to your standards
- Work alongside them initially
- Supervise quality carefully
Economics:
- You complete 3-bed house solo in 10 hours: £280 revenue, your profit £250
- You + assistant complete same job in 6-7 hours: £280 revenue, assistant cost £105, your profit £165 from one job but you can do another job too
With assistant, you can complete more jobs daily, increasing total revenue significantly.
Scaling to 2-3 teams: Eventually you can run multiple teams simultaneously, completing 8-15 properties weekly.
Building Letting Agent Network
One agent isn’t enough for substantial scaling.
Goal: Relationships with 5-10 letting agents:
- Each providing 3-10 jobs monthly
- Total: 15-60 jobs monthly from agent network
- Provides stable base income
Diversified agent network protects you: If one agent stops using you or closes, others maintain income.
Specialising in Property Types
Consider focusing on specific niches:
Student properties:
- Concentrated in university areas
- High turnover (annual)
- Specific requirements (often very messy)
- Universities and student letting agents are clients
- Seasonal peaks (May-June, September)
HMO properties (houses in multiple occupation):
- Larger properties with shared facilities
- More rooms to clean
- Higher rates justified
- Landlords often have multiple HMOs
Luxury properties:
- High standards required
- Premium pricing (£400-£800 per property)
- Lower volume but much higher margins
- Requires excellent presentation and references
Specialisation allows premium positioning and expertise development.
Adding Related Services
Natural add-ons to end of tenancy cleaning:
Gardening/outdoor maintenance: Many tenancies require garden tidied. If you or team member can do this, charge £50-£150 additional.
Minor handyman work: Changing locks, filling small holes, minor repairs. Charge extra but provides one-stop service.
Rubbish removal: Tenants often leave items behind. Offer clearance service.
Inventory services: Some landlords need check-in/check-out inventory. Additional revenue stream using photography skills you already have.
These additions increase revenue per job and make you more valuable to agents and landlords.
The Financial Reality: What You’ll Actually Earn
Let’s get specific about end of tenancy income potential.
Scenario 1: Part-Time End of Tenancy Specialist
2 end of tenancy cleans per week:
- Average revenue per job: £220
- Weekly revenue: £440
- Annual (46 weeks): £20,240
- After costs (supplies, fuel, insurance): £18,000
- After tax: ~£16,500 take-home
Plus 10 hours weekly regular cleaning:
- 10 hours × £17 = £170 weekly
- Annual: £7,820
- After costs: £7,200
- After tax: ~£6,500
Total: ~£23,000 annually from combined approach.
Compare to 30 hours weekly regular cleaning only:
- After costs and tax: ~£19,500
Extra £3,500 annually from adding end of tenancy work part-time.
Scenario 2: Full-Time End of Tenancy Focus
4 end of tenancy cleans weekly (manageable solo):
- Average revenue: £240 per job
- Weekly: £960
- Annual (46 weeks): £44,160
- After costs: £40,000
- After tax: ~£32,000 take-home
Many full-time end of tenancy cleaners earn £30,000-£40,000 annually working alone.
Scenario 3: Scaled End of Tenancy Business
You + 2 assistants, completing 10 properties weekly:
- Average revenue per property: £230
- Weekly revenue: £2,300
- Annual: £105,800
Costs:
- 2 assistants (£16/hour average, ~25 hours each weekly): £40,000 annually
- Supplies and fuel: £8,000
- Insurance, marketing, vehicle costs: £6,000
- Total costs: £54,000
Net profit: £51,800 After tax: ~£38,000+ business owner take-home
This requires significant scaling but demonstrates earning potential.
Why Trader Street Is Perfect for End of Tenancy Cleaning
Traditional marketing is expensive and inefficient. Trader Street provides better route to clients.
Detailed service descriptions: Your comprehensive explanation of end of tenancy standards is visible to clients, proving expertise.
Guarantee prominently displayed: “Deposit back guarantee” immediately builds confidence.
Reviews from successful jobs: Tenants mentioning deposit return attract similar clients.
Direct communication: Discuss property specifics, send photos, clarify scope before booking.
Local targeting: Clients in your service area find you specifically.
No commission: Keep 100% of your earnings – crucial when margins matter.
Professional positioning: Present yourself as professionally as large cleaning companies without their overhead.
Your Action Plan to Build End of Tenancy Business
Ready to build your end of tenancy cleaning business? Here’s your roadmap.
Month 1: Preparation and Learning
☐ Research end of tenancy standards thoroughly (read this guide multiple times)
☐ Purchase necessary equipment and supplies (£150-£250 initial)
☐ Study letting agent requirements (visit properties, speak to agents if possible)
☐ Create your detailed checklist
☐ Update Trader Street profile for end of tenancy focus
☐ Get proper insurance
Month 2: First Jobs
☐ Offer introductory rates (10-15% below market) to build portfolio
☐ Target friends, family, existing clients for first 3-5 jobs
☐ Work methodically through checklist
☐ Time yourself accurately
☐ Take before/after photos of every job
☐ Request reviews emphasising deposit return
Month 3: Building Portfolio
☐ Complete 6-10 end of tenancy jobs
☐ Increase rates to market average
☐ Begin approaching letting agents
☐ Refine your process and timing
☐ Build photo portfolio of your work
Month 4-6: Establishing Business
☐ Target 10-15 jobs monthly
☐ Secure first letting agent relationship
☐ Build review collection (aim for 15-20 excellent reviews)
☐ Consider hiring assistant if volume warrants
☐ Establish reputation for reliability and quality
Ongoing: Growth and Mastery
☐ Build relationships with 3-5 letting agents
☐ Continuously improve efficiency and quality
☐ Consider specialisation options
☐ Track income specifically from end of tenancy work
☐ Scale strategically with assistants if desired
Final Thoughts: The Opportunity Is Substantial
End of tenancy cleaning represents exceptional opportunity in professional cleaning industry:
- Premium rates (£200-£450 per property)
- Constant demand (people always move)
- Predictable busy periods (month-ends, summer)
- Referral relationships with agents (steady pipeline)
- Scalable business model (solo to multiple teams)
- Less physically demanding than many expect
Yes, standards are strict. Yes, letting agents are particular. Yes, tenants’ deposits depend on your work.
But that’s exactly why it’s profitable. Clients need this done properly and pay accordingly.
You can add it to existing cleaning business for extra income (£3,500-£8,000 annually part-time). You can build entire business around it (£30,000-£40,000 annually solo). You can scale with teams (£50,000-£100,000+ potential).
The market is vast. The demand is constant. Platforms like Trader Street make it easy to connect with clients.
The only question is: are you ready to master the specific standards, deliver consistently excellent results, and build relationships that generate steady work?
Your future end of tenancy clients are out there right now – tenants desperate to protect deposits, landlords needing properties prepared, letting agents seeking reliable cleaners they can trust.
Be the professional they need. Master end of tenancy cleaning. Build your profitable business.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I realistically earn from end of tenancy cleaning?
Part-time (2 jobs weekly): £18,000-£20,000 annually after costs. Full-time solo: £30,000-£40,000 annually. Scaled with assistants: £50,000-£100,000+ potential. Margins are excellent – £200-£250 profit per average property after costs.
Do I need special certification for end of tenancy cleaning?
No legal certification required. However, letting agent relationships and client reviews serve as credentials. Professional insurance is essential. Some cleaners obtain general cleaning business certifications for credibility but not mandatory.
How do I get my first letting agent relationship?
Research local agents, send professional introduction email (see template in guide), follow up with phone call. Offer trial services on 1-2 properties. Deliver exceptional results. Most agents willing to try new cleaners if you present professionally and understand their needs.
What if the letting agent rejects my cleaning?
Return and rectify immediately at no additional cost (this is standard guarantee). Request specific details of issues. Address them thoroughly. This builds reputation for standing behind work. Most rejections happen early in career as you learn standards.
How long does end of tenancy cleaning actually take?
Studio/1-bed: 4-6 hours; 2-bed: 6-9 hours; 3-bed: 8-12 hours; 4-bed: 12-16 hours. Times vary with property condition and whether working solo or with assistant. Never rush – quality matters more than speed.
Should I specialise only in end of tenancy or combine with regular cleaning?
Both models work. Many cleaners successfully combine regular clients (steady weekly income) with end of tenancy jobs (higher-margin work). Some specialise exclusively in end of tenancy once established. Try combined approach initially, then decide based on preference and income.
What supplies do I need to start?
Initial investment: £150-£250 for professional-grade products, equipment, and supplies. Ongoing cost: £8-£15 per job. Essential: heavy-duty oven cleaner, strong limescale remover, degreaser, all-purpose cleaner, microfibre cloths, scouring pads, commercial hoover. See detailed equipment list in guide.
How do I price end of tenancy cleaning?
Research local market rates (£90-£550 depending on property size and region). Position at market average initially. Increase rates as you build reviews. Factor in 8-12 hours work, supplies, fuel, insurance, overhead. Minimum £170-£280 for 3-bed house depending on region.
Can I build entire business on end of tenancy cleaning alone?
Absolutely. Many successful cleaners focus exclusively on end of tenancy. Constant demand, premium rates, and letting agent relationships support full-time focus. Requires building reputation and agent network but definitely viable as standalone business.
What happens if I damage something during cleaning?
This is why professional insurance is essential (public liability plus treatment risk cover). Report to insurance immediately. Document thoroughly. Most policies cover accidental damage. Never admit liability without consulting insurance first. Accidents rare with proper technique but protection crucial.
Ready to build profitable end of tenancy cleaning business? Update or create your Trader Street profile with detailed service description emphasising deposit-back guarantee, showcase your professional approach, and start connecting with tenants, landlords, and letting agents who need reliable end of tenancy cleaning they can trust.