Moving out of a rental property? Here’s your complete guide to end of tenancy cleaning and ensuring you get every penny of your deposit returned.
You’ve found your new place, given notice to your landlord, and started packing boxes. Exciting times! But there’s one crucial task standing between you and your full deposit refund: the end of tenancy clean.
If you’ve never dealt with this before, you might be wondering what all the fuss is about. Surely if you give the place a good clean, that’ll be enough? Well, not quite. End of tenancy cleaning is a different beast entirely from your regular weekend tidy-up. Landlords and letting agents expect properties to be returned in the same immaculate condition they were in on day one – and they’ll happily deduct cleaning costs from your deposit if it’s not up to scratch.
The good news? With the right approach – whether you tackle it yourself or hire professionals – you can absolutely get that deposit back in full. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about end of tenancy cleaning, from understanding what’s required to choosing the right cleaning service.
Why End of Tenancy Cleaning is Crucial
Let’s talk about money first, because that usually focuses the mind. The average rental deposit in the UK is around £1,200-£1,800, depending on your location and property size. That’s a substantial chunk of change you definitely want back.
According to recent data, nearly 40% of tenants lose at least part of their deposit, with cleaning issues being one of the top reasons for deductions. We’re talking about deductions ranging from £100 for minor issues to £500+ for properties requiring professional deep cleaning.
Here’s what makes this particularly frustrating: you might think you’ve cleaned thoroughly, but landlords and inventory clerks have different standards. What looks clean to you might not pass their inspection. They’re comparing the property to its condition at move-in, documented in that inventory report you probably barely glanced at when you moved in.
The Tenancy Deposit Scheme Requirements
Since 2007, landlords in England and Wales must protect deposits in government-approved schemes (TDS, DPS, or MyDeposits). Scotland has similar requirements through SafeDeposits Scotland and MyDeposits Scotland.
These schemes exist to protect tenants from unfair deductions, but they won’t automatically side with you if the property genuinely isn’t clean. If you dispute a cleaning deduction, the scheme’s adjudication service will review evidence from both sides – typically the check-in and check-out inventory reports, plus photographs.
Here’s the crucial bit: adjudicators expect like-for-like condition. If the property was professionally cleaned before you moved in (as most are), it should be professionally cleaned when you leave. If the oven was spotless at check-in, it needs to be spotless at check-out. If there were no carpet stains initially, any stains you’ve added need to be removed.
Understanding this helps explain why a basic clean often isn’t enough.
What’s Actually Required for End of Tenancy Cleaning?
Right, let’s get specific about what “end of tenancy clean” actually means. This goes far beyond your weekly hoovering and bathroom scrub.
The Kitchen: Where Most Tenants Lose Money
The kitchen is typically where deposits get docked, because it’s where grime accumulates most aggressively and where cleaning standards are most exacting.
The oven is the big one. We’re not talking about a quick wipe-down here. The oven needs to look showroom-new: shelves spotless, glass door crystal clear, no burnt-on food anywhere, not a hint of grease. Many tenants underestimate just how much work this is. Professional oven cleaning exists as a standalone service for good reason – it’s intensive, time-consuming work requiring specialist products.
Every appliance matters:
- Fridge and freezer completely defrosted, cleaned inside and out, seals scrubbed
- Dishwasher cleaned, filters removed and washed, door seals spotless
- Washing machine drum cleaned, detergent drawer scrubbed, door seal mould-free
- Microwave interior and exterior spotless
- Extractor fan hood cleaned and filters degreased
- Hob completely free of burnt-on food and grease
Surfaces and storage:
- Inside all cupboards and drawers (yes, including the backs)
- Worktops spotless with no limescale around taps
- Tiles and splashbacks clean and grease-free
- Sink completely descaled and plughole cleared
- Bin thoroughly cleaned (or replaced if damaged)
- Light fixtures and switches wiped down
Floors:
- Swept, mopped, and gleaming
- Under and behind appliances cleaned (pull out the fridge and cooker)
- Skirting boards dusted and wiped
Bathrooms: The Second Major Checkpoint
Bathrooms need to sparkle, and that means properly tackling limescale, mould, and soap scum.
Main fixtures:
- Toilet completely descaled, including under the rim and around the base
- Shower head descaled and working properly
- Shower screen or curtain spotless (mould-free)
- Shower tray or bath completely clean with no soap scum or limescale
- Sink and taps thoroughly descaled and shining
- Tiles grouted and grout as clean as possible
Everything else:
- Mirror spotless
- Cabinets inside and out
- Extractor fan cleaned
- Toilet roll holder and towel rails wiped
- Floor swept and mopped, including behind the toilet
- Skirting boards clean
Living Areas and Bedrooms
General cleaning:
- All surfaces dusted thoroughly (including tops of doors, picture rails, skirting boards)
- Light fixtures and lampshades dusted
- Windows cleaned inside (and outside if safely accessible)
- Window sills and frames cleaned
- Radiators wiped down front and back
- Switches and sockets wiped clean
- Any marks on walls removed (carefully!)
- Floors hoovered and mopped as appropriate
Carpets:
- Thoroughly hoovered, including edges and corners
- Any stains removed (this might require professional carpet cleaning)
- No lingering odours
Built-in wardrobes and storage:
- Emptied completely
- Inside surfaces wiped clean
- Shelves dusted
- Rails cleaned
Often-Forgotten Areas (That Will Lose You Money)
These are the spots that catch tenants out during inspections:
Top of kitchen cupboards – covered in grease and dust
Inside extractor fan housings – sticky with grease
Behind radiators – dust bunnies galore
Window tracks and frames – accumulated dirt and dead insects
Door frames and tops of doors – dusty
Light fixtures – dead insects and dust
Skirting boards – especially behind furniture
Under kitchen appliances – crumbs, dirt, possibly lost items
Bathroom extractor fan grilles – dust and grime
The space between the oven and counter – food debris
Professional Cleaning vs. DIY: Making the Right Choice
This is the million-pound question (or at least the several-hundred-pound question): should you clean the property yourself or hire professionals?
When DIY Makes Sense
You might successfully DIY if:
- The property is small (studio or one-bedroom)
- You’re naturally thorough and detail-oriented
- You’ve maintained the property well throughout your tenancy
- You have plenty of time before your checkout date
- You’ve got proper cleaning products and equipment
- You’re physically able to do intensive cleaning work
- The property wasn’t professionally cleaned at check-in
Realistic time estimate for DIY:
- Studio flat: 8-12 hours
- One-bedroom flat: 12-16 hours
- Two-bedroom flat/house: 16-24 hours
- Three-bedroom house: 24-32 hours
That’s proper, thorough cleaning, not a quick once-over. And this assumes the property is in reasonable condition. If you’ve let things slide, add 50% more time.
When Professional Cleaning Makes More Sense
Consider professionals if:
- The property is large (3+ bedrooms)
- Your tenancy agreement specifies professional cleaning
- The property was professionally cleaned at check-in
- You’re short on time (moving and working full-time)
- You lack proper equipment (especially for carpet/oven cleaning)
- You’re not confident about achieving the required standard
- The property needs serious work (heavy limescale, stained carpets, filthy oven)
- You’ve got a demanding landlord or letting agent
- Your new place requires immediate attention
The maths often favours professional cleaning:
Let’s say your time is worth £15 per hour (minimum wage) and a two-bedroom flat takes you 20 hours to clean properly. That’s £300 worth of your time, plus you’ll likely need to buy specialist cleaning products (£50+), and you might still not achieve professional standards.
A professional end of tenancy clean for the same property typically costs £150-£250 and comes with a guarantee. If your landlord disputes the clean, the company will return to rectify issues. That peace of mind alone is often worth it.
The Hybrid Approach
Many tenants successfully use a middle-ground approach:
You handle: General cleaning, decluttering, basic surfaces, packing
Professionals tackle: Oven cleaning, carpet cleaning, final deep clean
This can work well, especially if you’ve maintained the property reasonably throughout your tenancy. Book professionals for the notoriously difficult jobs (oven, carpets) and handle the rest yourself.
Understanding End of Tenancy Cleaning Costs
Let’s talk specific numbers, because you need to budget appropriately.
Professional End of Tenancy Cleaning Prices (2025)
London and South East:
- Studio flat: £120-£180
- One-bedroom flat: £150-£220
- Two-bedroom flat: £180-£280
- Three-bedroom house: £220-£350
- Four-bedroom house: £280-£450
Major cities (Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Bristol):
- Studio flat: £100-£150
- One-bedroom flat: £130-£180
- Two-bedroom flat: £160-£230
- Three-bedroom house: £190-£300
- Four-bedroom house: £240-£380
Other regions:
- Studio flat: £90-£130
- One-bedroom flat: £110-£160
- Two-bedroom flat: £140-£210
- Three-bedroom house: £170-£270
- Four-bedroom house: £220-£350
What Affects the Price?
Property size is the primary factor, obviously, but several other things influence costs:
Property condition matters hugely. The prices above assume reasonable condition. If the property is particularly dirty, expect to pay 20-50% more. If it’s absolutely filthy (think student house after a year of minimal cleaning), you might pay double.
Additional services add up:
- Carpet steam cleaning: £30-£60 per room
- Oven deep clean: £40-£70 (often included in end of tenancy packages)
- Window cleaning exterior: £30-£60
- Garage or garden cleaning: £40-£100+
- Furniture removal: £50-£150+
Location affects pricing. Central London properties cost significantly more than rural properties of the same size. It’s not just about local price differences – it’s also about parking difficulty, congestion charges, and travel time for cleaners.
Timing can matter. Some cleaning companies charge premium rates for weekend or evening cleans, or for rush jobs with less than 48 hours’ notice.
What’s Included in a Standard End of Tenancy Clean?
Most professional end of tenancy cleaning packages include:
✅ Complete kitchen clean (including oven)
✅ Full bathroom cleaning
✅ All rooms dusted, hoovered, and mopped
✅ Windows cleaned (interior)
✅ Skirting boards and light fixtures
✅ Switches and sockets
✅ Inside wardrobes and cupboards
Usually NOT included (available as add-ons):
❌ Carpet steam cleaning
❌ Exterior window cleaning
❌ Garden or patio cleaning
❌ Garage cleaning
❌ Removal of tenant belongings
❌ Furniture cleaning
❌ Wall repairs or painting
Always clarify exactly what’s included before booking.
Finding the Right End of Tenancy Cleaner
Not all cleaning services are created equal, especially for end of tenancy work. Here’s how to find someone who’ll do it properly.
Essential Qualities to Look For
End of tenancy experience is crucial. General domestic cleaners might not understand the specific requirements and standards expected by letting agents and landlords. Ask directly: “How many end of tenancy cleans do you do per month?” You want someone who does them regularly.
Guarantees matter enormously. Reputable end of tenancy cleaners offer a guarantee – typically 48 or 72 hours. This means if your landlord or letting agent identifies areas that weren’t cleaned properly, the company will return to rectify them at no additional cost. This is huge for peace of mind.
Insurance is non-negotiable. Check they have public liability insurance covering accidental damage. You’re already stressed about moving; you don’t need the additional worry of uninsured cleaners.
Equipment and products should be professional-grade. End of tenancy cleaning requires more than a bottle of Flash and a mop. Ask what equipment and products they use. Professional services bring commercial-grade cleaners, proper vacuums, steam cleaners, and specialist products.
Questions to Ask Before Booking
“How long have you been doing end of tenancy cleans?”
You want experience, not someone experimenting with your deposit.
“What exactly is included in your service?”
Get a detailed breakdown. Assume nothing. If it’s not explicitly listed, it might not be included.
“Do you offer a guarantee, and how does it work?”
Understand the process if your landlord isn’t satisfied. How quickly will they return? Is there a limit on return visits?
“What if my landlord disputes the clean?”
Good cleaners have a clear process for this. Red flag if they’re vague or defensive.
“Will you provide a receipt or invoice?”
You’ll want documentation showing the property was professionally cleaned. This helps if disputes arise.
“What happens if you damage something?”
Accidents happen. They should have insurance and a clear policy for addressing damage.
“Do you provide cleaning checklists?”
Many professional services complete a detailed checklist and leave it in the property. This documentation proves what was done.
“When should I book, and what’s your cancellation policy?”
End of tenancy cleaners get booked up, especially at month-ends. Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance if possible.
Red Flags to Avoid
Prices that seem too good to be true – “£60 for a three-bedroom house!” – usually are. You’ll either get appalling service or hidden extras that bring the cost up dramatically.
Refusing to provide guarantees suggests they lack confidence in their work. Why wouldn’t they stand behind their service?
Cash-only with no receipt raises tax evasion questions and leaves you with no documentation that the clean occurred.
Vague about what’s included or constantly saying “we’ll see on the day” suggests they’re not properly experienced with end of tenancy cleans.
No reviews or testimonials in 2025 is unusual. Even new companies should have some online presence and reviews.
Unwilling to visit beforehand for larger or particularly dirty properties might mean they’ll quote low, then claim it’s worse than expected and charge more on the day.
Finding Great End of Tenancy Cleaners on Trader Street
Trader Street makes finding reliable end of tenancy cleaners significantly easier than the traditional approach of searching Google and hoping for the best.
Browse detailed profiles showing cleaners’ experience with end of tenancy work specifically. You can see their rates, what’s included, and their availability.
Read genuine reviews from other tenants who’ve used them for move-out cleans. These reviews often mention whether deposits were returned fully – incredibly valuable information.
Message directly to discuss your specific property and requirements. Describe the condition honestly and ask for a quote. Many cleaners will visit beforehand for larger properties or if you’re unsure about the cost.
Compare multiple cleaners quickly without dozens of phone calls. See several quotes side-by-side and make an informed decision.
Negotiate fairly if needed. Some cleaners offer discounts for booking well in advance or for combining services (end of tenancy clean plus carpet cleaning, for example).
No agency markup means better prices. You’re paying the cleaner directly, not an agency taking 30-50% of the fee.
Timing Your End of Tenancy Clean
Getting the timing right can make a massive difference to your stress levels and success rate.
The Ideal Timeline
3-4 weeks before moving out:
- Book your end of tenancy cleaner
- If DIY, acquire all necessary cleaning products and equipment
- Start decluttering and packing non-essentials
1-2 weeks before:
- Continue packing
- Do a preliminary clean of areas you’ve already emptied
- Address any maintenance issues (holes in walls, broken fixtures)
- Arrange carpet cleaning if needed (do this before general cleaning)
2-3 days before checkout:
- Complete all packing
- Remove all belongings (cleaners can’t work around your stuff)
- If DIY cleaning, this is when you do it
- If hiring professionals, they should come now
Day before checkout:
- Final walk-through to check for forgotten items
- Quick touch-up if needed
- Read utility metres
- Take photographs of the clean property (crucial evidence)
Checkout day:
- Be present for inspection if possible
- Have your cleaning invoice/receipt ready to show
- Be prepared to address minor issues on the spot if possible
Common Timing Mistakes
Scheduling cleaners while you’re still moving things out. Cleaners can’t properly clean around boxes and furniture. Everything must be completely empty.
Cleaning too early. If you clean 2 weeks before moving out and continue living there, the property won’t be clean at checkout. Clean after you’ve fully moved out.
Rushing the clean the morning of checkout. This never works. You’ll be exhausted, stressed, and won’t achieve the required standard.
Not allowing time for touch-ups. Even with professional cleaning, occasionally something gets missed. Build in a day before checkout for any corrections.
The DIY End of Tenancy Cleaning Checklist
If you’re tackling this yourself, here’s your room-by-room checklist. Print it out and tick things off as you go.
Kitchen Checklist
☐ Oven: Interior, racks, glass door, exterior, surrounding areas
☐ Hob: All surfaces, control knobs, gaps between hob and counter
☐ Extractor fan: Hood exterior and interior, filters removed and cleaned
☐ Fridge/freezer: Defrosted, interior and exterior, seals, underneath
☐ Dishwasher: Interior, filter, seals, exterior
☐ Washing machine: Drum, door seal, detergent drawer, filter, exterior
☐ Microwave: Interior and exterior
☐ All cupboards: Inside and out, including tops
☐ All drawers: Inside and underneath
☐ Worktops: Completely clean, taps descaled
☐ Sink: Descaled, plughole clear
☐ Tiles and splashback: Clean and degreased
☐ Walls: Spot-clean any marks or splashes
☐ Light fixtures: Cleaned
☐ Switches and sockets: Wiped
☐ Windows: Cleaned inside
☐ Window sills and frames: Cleaned
☐ Radiator: Front, back, underneath
☐ Skirting boards: Dusted and wiped
☐ Floor: Swept, mopped, including under/behind appliances
☐ Bin: Cleaned or replaced
Bathroom Checklist
☐ Toilet: Bowl, rim, base, behind, surrounding area
☐ Sink: Bowl, taps descaled, plughole clear
☐ Bath: Interior, exterior, taps descaled, surrounding tiles
☐ Shower: Tray/cubicle, screen, head descaled, tiles, grout, taps
☐ Shower curtain: Cleaned or replaced if mouldy
☐ Tiles: All areas, grout as clean as possible
☐ Mirror: Spotless
☐ Cabinets: Inside and out
☐ Toilet roll holder and towel rails: Clean
☐ Extractor fan: Grille cleaned
☐ Light fixture: Cleaned
☐ Switches and sockets: Wiped
☐ Radiator: Front, back, underneath
☐ Skirting boards: Cleaned
☐ Floor: Swept and mopped, including behind toilet
☐ Window: Cleaned inside
☐ Window sill and frame: Cleaned
Living Areas & Bedrooms Checklist
☐ All surfaces: Dusted thoroughly
☐ Wardrobes: Empty, inside cleaned, rails wiped, outside cleaned
☐ Shelves: Dusted
☐ Light fixtures: Cleaned
☐ Ceiling fan (if present): Blades cleaned
☐ Picture rails and coving: Dusted
☐ Door frames and tops of doors: Dusted
☐ Doors: Wiped, handles cleaned
☐ Switches and sockets: Cleaned
☐ Windows: Cleaned inside
☐ Window sills, frames, and tracks: Cleaned
☐ Radiators: Front, back, underneath
☐ Skirting boards: Entire perimeter, corners
☐ Walls: Any marks removed
☐ Carpets: Thoroughly hoovered, stains removed
☐ Hard floors: Swept/vacuumed and mopped
☐ Behind/under furniture areas: Cleaned (even if furniture is gone)
Hallway & General Areas
☐ Entrance door: Both sides cleaned
☐ All internal doors: Both sides, frames
☐ Walls: Mark-free
☐ Light fixtures: All cleaned
☐ Stair banisters: Wiped down
☐ Stairs: Hoovered/cleaned thoroughly, including corners
☐ Storage cupboards: Empty and cleaned inside
☐ Floors: All areas hoovered/mopped
☐ Skirting boards: Complete property
What to Do if Your Landlord Disputes the Cleaning
Despite your best efforts, sometimes landlords still try to deduct cleaning costs. Here’s how to handle it.
Understanding Reasonable Deductions
Landlords can only make deductions for cleaning that brings the property back to the condition it was in at move-in (allowing for fair wear and tear).
Fair wear and tear includes:
- Minor scuffs on walls from normal living
- Slight carpet wear in high-traffic areas
- Minor limescale that wasn’t there initially but accumulated normally
- Fading from sunlight
Legitimate cleaning deductions:
- Significant dirt, grime, or stains
- Uncleaned appliances (especially ovens)
- Excessive limescale, mould, or soap scum
- Carpet stains that weren’t documented at check-in
- Properties requiring professional cleaning when maintained to a good standard throughout
Your Defence Strategy
Document everything. Take extensive photographs of the clean property before you hand over keys:
- Wide shots of each room
- Close-ups of appliances, particularly ovens
- Bathrooms showing clean fixtures
- Carpets showing no stains
- Any areas you know were problematic at move-in
These photos are your evidence. Time-stamp them if possible.
Keep all receipts and documentation:
- Professional cleaning invoices
- Carpet cleaning receipts
- Purchase receipts for cleaning products (if DIY)
- Any correspondence with landlord about cleaning
Compare to check-in inventory. Pull out that check-in report. If it shows the oven was “heavily soiled with baked-on food” when you moved in, your landlord can’t now demand professional oven cleaning costs from you.
Request itemised deductions. Landlords must provide detailed breakdowns of any proposed deductions, including costs for cleaning services.
Challenge excessive costs. If your landlord claims they paid £400 for cleaning a one-bedroom flat, that’s probably excessive. Get quotes yourself to demonstrate reasonable costs.
The Dispute Process
If you disagree with proposed deductions:
Step 1: Communicate directly with your landlord. Sometimes it’s a simple misunderstanding. Provide your evidence (photos, receipts) and discuss the issues calmly.
Step 2: Contact the deposit protection scheme. If direct negotiation fails, initiate the dispute resolution process with whichever scheme holds your deposit (TDS, DPS, MyDeposits).
Step 3: Submit your evidence. The scheme will ask both parties to submit evidence. Provide:
- Check-in and check-out inventories
- Your photographs of the clean property
- Cleaning receipts/invoices
- Any relevant correspondence
- Quotes for cleaning services showing what reasonable costs should be
Step 4: Await adjudication. An independent adjudicator reviews all evidence and makes a binding decision. This typically takes 2-4 weeks.
Important: Adjudicators base decisions on evidence, not emotions. Your photos proving the property was clean are worth infinitely more than angry emails about how unfair your landlord is being.
Tips for Winning Disputes
Professional cleaning receipts carry significant weight. If you can prove the property was professionally cleaned, it’s much harder for landlords to justify further cleaning deductions.
Compare like with like. If the property wasn’t professionally cleaned before you moved in, arguing you should have left it professionally cleaned is weaker.
Be reasonable. If you acknowledge minor issues but dispute excessive costs, adjudicators often find in your favour for the excessive amount.
Detailed photographic evidence wins disputes. Before and after photos showing a clean property are incredibly persuasive.
Money-Saving Tips for End of Tenancy Cleaning
Getting your deposit back doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some smart strategies:
If You’re DIY Cleaning
Borrow or rent equipment rather than buying. Carpet cleaners can be hired from B&Q or other tool hire shops for £25-£40 per day. Steam cleaners can be borrowed from friends or rented cheaply.
Use cost-effective products that actually work:
- White vinegar for descaling (50p per litre)
- Bicarbonate of soda for scrubbing (£1)
- Washing-up liquid for most surfaces (£1)
- Dedicated limescale remover for tough areas (£3-£5)
Start early and work consistently. Spreading the work over a week is less exhausting than one marathon 12-hour session and you’ll do a better job.
Tackle the oven overnight. Apply oven cleaner in the evening, leave overnight, and clean it off the next morning. Much easier than scrubbing for hours.
Work systematically, room by room. Complete each room fully before moving on. You’ll feel less overwhelmed and it’s harder to miss things.
If You’re Hiring Professionals
Book well in advance. Many cleaners offer early booking discounts of 5-10%. Plus, you’ll have more choice of cleaners and time slots.
Compare multiple quotes on Trader Street. Prices vary significantly. Getting 3-5 quotes helps you identify fair market rates and spot any outliers.
Consider off-peak times. Mid-week cleans often cost less than weekend ones. End-of-month is peak season (everyone moves then), so mid-month can be cheaper if your tenancy timing allows.
Bundle services. Many cleaners offer better rates if you book both end of tenancy cleaning and carpet cleaning together.
Prepare the property properly. Ensure everything is completely empty and remove all belongings. Some cleaners charge extra if they arrive and have to work around your stuff.
Be honest about condition. If the property needs extra work, say so upfront. Getting an accurate quote prevents nasty surprises and extra charges on the day.
Smart Planning Saves Money
Clean as you go during your tenancy. Keeping on top of limescale, oven cleaning, and general maintenance throughout your tenancy means the end of tenancy clean is much less intensive (and cheaper).
Address issues early. That carpet stain from six months ago will only get harder to remove. Deal with problems when they happen, not when you’re moving out.
Read your tenancy agreement carefully. Some agreements specify professional cleaning is required. Others don’t. Knowing what you’re actually obligated to do helps you plan appropriately.
Negotiate with your landlord. If you’ve been an excellent tenant for years, sometimes landlords are flexible about cleaning standards, especially for minor issues.
Special Circumstances
Furnished vs. Unfurnished Properties
Furnished properties require additional attention:
- All furniture must be clean (professional furniture cleaning may be needed)
- Sofas and chairs should be hoovered and spot-cleaned
- Mattresses should be cleaned or protected with covers
- Dining tables and chairs need thorough cleaning
- Soft furnishings should be fresh and odour-free
Budget an extra £50-£150 for furniture cleaning if it wasn’t maintained during your tenancy.
Unfurnished properties are usually quicker to clean since there’s less to work around, but the same standards apply to the property itself.
Properties with Gardens or Outside Spaces
Gardens are often overlooked until the last minute, then cause deposit deductions.
Required garden maintenance typically includes:
- Lawn mowed and edges tidied
- Weeds removed from flower beds and paving
- Rubbish cleared
- Paths swept
- Shed/storage cleared out (unless you’re leaving agreed items)
Professional garden clearance: £50-£200+ depending on size and condition
Top tip: If you’ve let the garden go, hiring a gardener for a few hours is usually much cheaper than the deposit deduction your landlord will claim.
Pet Damage and Odours
If you’ve had pets during your tenancy, extra attention is needed:
Deep clean carpets professionally. Pet odours can linger even if you can’t smell them (nose blindness is real). Professional steam cleaning costs £30-£60 per room but is essential.
Address any damage. Scratched doors, chewed skirting boards, or soiled areas need proper repair or cleaning. Your landlord will deduct for these, so address them proactively.
Deodorise thoroughly. Open windows for several days before checkout if possible. Use bicarbonate of soda on carpets (leave overnight, hoover up) to absorb odours.
Student Accommodation
Student properties often need more intensive cleaning because:
- Multiple occupants means more wear and tear
- Properties often haven’t been maintained well during the tenancy
- Student landlords often have strict cleaning requirements
Student house cleaning tips:
- Split the cost between all tenants (each paying £40-£80 is much more manageable)
- Book professionals – trying to coordinate multiple students for a DIY deep clean rarely works well
- Assign clear responsibilities if any DIY portions are needed
- Start early – student properties at end of academic year get booked up months in advance
Your Action Plan for End of Tenancy Success
Here’s your step-by-step roadmap to getting that full deposit back:
4 Weeks Before Moving Out
☐ Review your check-in inventory thoroughly
☐ Walk through the property noting any areas needing attention
☐ Get quotes from professional end of tenancy cleaners (or price up DIY supplies)
☐ Book professional cleaning or carpet cleaning services
☐ Address any maintenance issues (patch walls, fix broken items)
2 Weeks Before Moving Out
☐ Start packing non-essential items
☐ Declutter and dispose of unwanted items
☐ Begin cleaning areas you’ve already emptied
☐ Purchase cleaning supplies if DIY
☐ Arrange any specialist services (oven cleaning, garden clearance)
1 Week Before Moving Out
☐ Complete packing
☐ Remove all belongings from the property
☐ Carry out or schedule professional cleaning
☐ Defrost freezer if not already done
☐ Clean as items are packed and removed
2-3 Days Before Checkout
☐ Perform or have final deep clean completed
☐ Do a thorough walk-through against the check-in inventory
☐ Take extensive photographs of clean property
☐ Address any missed areas
☐ Ensure garden/outside areas are tidy
Day Before Checkout
☐ Final inspection for forgotten items
☐ Quick touch-up clean if needed
☐ Read utility metres and take photos
☐ Ensure all keys, fobs, and access items are ready to return
☐ Organise all documentation (cleaning receipts, photographs, inventories)
Checkout Day
☐ Attend inspection if possible
☐ Present cleaning documentation to letting agent/landlord
☐ Take final photographs after inspection
☐ Get written confirmation of property condition if possible
☐ Return all keys and access items
☐ Get receipt for keys returned
Final Thoughts: Your Deposit is Worth the Effort
Look, moving house is stressful enough without worrying about losing hundreds of pounds from your deposit. But here’s the reality: taking end of tenancy cleaning seriously is one of the simplest ways to ensure you get that money back.
Whether you tackle it yourself or hire professionals, the key is understanding what’s actually required and planning properly. Don’t leave it to the last minute, don’t assume a quick clean will suffice, and don’t underestimate the standards expected.
Remember, adjudicators in deposit disputes base decisions on evidence. Photographs proving the property was immaculate, coupled with professional cleaning receipts, make it very difficult for landlords to justify deductions. That’s your goal: leave no room for argument.
For most tenants, professional end of tenancy cleaning is money well spent. Yes, it costs £150-£350 depending on property size, but it saves you 20+ hours of intensive work, provides guarantees, and dramatically increases your chances of full deposit return. When you’re juggling work, packing, organising movers, and dealing with all the stress of relocation, having professionals handle the cleaning is often worth every penny.
And if you do hire professionals, platforms like Trader Street make it straightforward to find reliable, experienced cleaners with genuine reviews and reasonable rates. No agency markup, just direct connections with local professionals who’ll do the job properly.
Your deposit represents weeks or months of rent – possibly your largest liquid asset. It’s absolutely worth the time, effort, or professional cost to get it back in full. Clean thoroughly, document everything, and you’ll be collecting that full refund before you know it.
Now go and make that property sparkle. Your bank account will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need professional cleaning if I clean it myself first?
It depends on your tenancy agreement and the property’s condition at move-in. If the property was professionally cleaned before you moved in, many letting agents expect the same standard when you leave. Check your tenancy agreement for specific requirements.
How far in advance should I book end of tenancy cleaning?
Book 2-4 weeks in advance if possible, especially if moving at the end of the month when demand is highest. Last-minute bookings (under 48 hours) may incur premium rates or be unavailable.
Can I be present during the end of tenancy clean?
Yes, you can be present if you wish, though it’s not necessary. Being there for the final walk-through can be helpful to address any concerns immediately. Most cleaners are happy to work whether you’re there or not.
What if the cleaners miss something and my landlord complains?
This is why the guarantee matters. Contact your cleaning company immediately with specific details of what was missed. Reputable companies will return within 24-72 hours to rectify any issues at no additional cost.
Should I clean before the professional cleaners arrive?
Basic tidying and removing all belongings is essential – cleaners can’t work around your stuff. But don’t deep clean first; that’s what you’re paying them for. Ensure the property is completely empty and accessible.
How long does professional end of tenancy cleaning take?
It varies by property size and condition:
- Studio/1-bed: 3-5 hours
- 2-bed: 4-6 hours
- 3-bed: 5-8 hours
- 4-bed: 6-10 hours Heavily soiled properties take significantly longer.
Do I need to clean carpets separately?
Most end of tenancy cleaning packages include hoovering but not steam cleaning. If carpets have stains or odours (especially pet-related), professional steam cleaning is highly recommended. This typically costs £30-60 per room as an additional service.
What if I can’t afford professional cleaning?
If budget is tight, consider a hybrid approach: tackle general cleaning yourself but hire professionals for the oven and carpets (usually under £100 combined). These are the areas that most commonly cause deposit deductions if not done perfectly.
Can I negotiate with my landlord about cleaning standards?
Possibly, especially if you’ve been a good tenant for several years. Some landlords are flexible about minor issues if you’ve otherwise cared for the property well. Always worth asking, but don’t assume they’ll agree.
What happens if my landlord deducts money anyway?
Request an itemised breakdown of deductions. If you disagree, initiate a dispute through your deposit protection scheme. Provide your evidence (photos, cleaning receipts) to the independent adjudicator who will make a binding decision.
Ready to ensure your full deposit return? Find experienced end of tenancy cleaners on Trader Street today – browse profiles, read genuine reviews, and connect directly with professionals who guarantee their work.