End of Tenancy Cleaning: What Landlords & Tenants Need to Know

End of tenancy cleaning is a crucial step in the rental process, ensuring that a property is left in top condition for the next tenant while helping outgoing tenants secure their deposit return. Whether you’re a tenant moving out or a landlord preparing a property for new occupants, understanding what’s expected can prevent disputes and unnecessary expenses.

This guide will break down everything landlords and tenants need to know about end of tenancy cleaning, including responsibilities, essential cleaning tasks, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Why End of Tenancy Cleaning is Important

For Tenants: Securing Your Deposit
- Most rental agreements state that tenants must return the property in a clean condition, similar to how they received it.
- A well-cleaned property reduces the chances of deductions from your deposit.
- Professional cleaning may be a requirement in some tenancy agreements, so always check your contract.
For Landlords: Preparing for New Tenants
- A clean property creates a great first impression, making it easier to attract new tenants.
- It helps maintain the property’s value and ensures that damages aren’t mistaken for general dirt or neglect.
- A professionally cleaned space prevents complaints and disputes when new tenants move in.

Tenant Responsibilities: What Needs to Be Cleaned?

If you’re a tenant moving out, the goal is to make sure the property is in the same condition it was at the start of your tenancy when you leave. Of course, there’s some wear and tear in the house during your stay. Here’s what should be included in your cleaning checklist:

Kitchen

✅ Clean inside and outside of cupboards, removing crumbs and grease.
✅ Descale and scrub the sink and taps.
✅ Clean the oven, hob, and extractor fan (including filters).
✅ Defrost and clean the fridge and freezer.
✅ Wipe down all surfaces, including counters and splashbacks.
✅ Mop and sanitise the floors.

Bathroom

✅ Scrub the toilet, including under the rim and behind the base.
✅ Remove limescale from taps, showerheads, and tiles.
✅ Clean the bathtub, shower, and sink.
✅ Wipe mirrors and glass surfaces for a streak-free finish.
✅ Disinfect light switches and door handles.

Living Room & Bedrooms

✅ Vacuum carpets, including under furniture.
✅ Dust and wipe down skirting boards, window sills, and shelves.
✅ Remove any marks on walls (without damaging the paint).
✅ Clean inside wardrobes and storage units.
✅ Wipe light switches and power outlets.

General Areas

✅ Clean inside and outside of windows (where accessible).
✅ Remove cobwebs from ceilings and corners.
✅ Empty and disinfect bins.
✅ Sweep and mop hard floors.

Landlord Responsibilities: Ensuring the Property is Move-In Ready

Even if a tenant does a thorough job, landlords should conduct an inspection before new tenants move in. Here’s what landlords should consider:

Final Inspection Check
- Walk through the property with the original inventory to ensure it meets the expected condition.
- Look for hidden dirt in corners, behind appliances, and inside cupboards.
Addressing Maintenance Issues
- If the previous tenants reported any issues, now is the time to fix them.
- Check for leaks, broken fixtures, and signs of mould that need attention.
Hiring Professional Cleaning Services
- Even if a tenant cleans thoroughly, professional cleaners can handle deep-cleaning tasks like carpets and upholstery.
- Some landlords prefer professional services to ensure consistency in cleanliness standards.

Should You Hire Professional End of Tenancy Cleaning?

While some tenants choose to clean themselves, hiring professionals can save time and effort. Here’s when professional cleaning makes sense:

Best for Tenants When:

✔ Your rental agreement requires professional cleaning.
✔ You’re short on time before moving out.
✔ The property has stubborn stains or difficult areas like carpets and ovens that need special treatment.

Best for Landlords When:

✔ The previous tenants did a poor cleaning job.
✔ You want to set a high standard for new tenants.
✔ The property has been vacant for a while and needs a refresh.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Leaving the Oven Dirty – One of the most checked areas in end-of-tenancy inspections.
🚫 Forgetting to Defrost the Freezer – It should be emptied and cleaned before moving out.
🚫 Ignoring Skirting Boards & Light Fixtures – Dust and dirt easily accumulate in these areas.
🚫 Overlooking Carpets & Upholstery – Vacuuming alone isn’t enough; some carpets may require deep cleaning.
🚫 Not Checking for Mould or Limescale – Especially in bathrooms, where these issues can lead to deductions.

The Cost of End of Tenancy Cleaning

The cost of professional cleaning depends on the size of the property and its condition. Costs may increase if carpet cleaning, oven deep cleaning, or external window washing is required.

How to Avoid Disputes Over Cleaning

For Tenants: Take photos after cleaning as proof of the property’s condition before handing back the keys.
For Landlords: Be clear in the tenancy agreement about cleaning expectations and conduct a fair final inspection.
For Both Parties: Refer to the original inventory report to avoid misunderstandings about damages vs. wear and tear.

Leaving a Lasting Impression

End of tenancy cleaning isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about respect, responsibility, and setting the right standard for the next person who walks through the door. For tenants, leaving a spotless space means walking away with confidence, knowing you’ve done your part to secure your deposit. For landlords, ensuring the property is move-in ready helps attract quality tenants and maintain the home’s long-term value.

Whether you’re scrubbing every surface yourself or bringing in the professionals, a clean property benefits everyone. After all, a fresh start begins with a fresh space.

Stay ahead with our latest cleaning tips, including “End-of-Tenancy Cleaning for Different Types of Properties: Apartments, Houses, and More“.

FAQs

Do landlords have to pay for cleaning after a tenant moves out?

If a tenant leaves the property in an acceptable condition, the landlord is not required to arrange or charge for cleaning. However, if it is left in poor condition, cleaning costs can be deducted from the deposit.

Can landlords force tenants to pay for professional cleaning?

Under the Tenant Fees Act (2019) in England, landlords cannot require tenants to hire professional cleaners. However, tenants must still return the property in the same clean condition as when they moved in.

What happens if a tenant refuses to clean before moving out?

If a tenant leaves the property unclean, the landlord can take cleaning costs out from the security deposit, provided there is sufficient evidence to justify the charges.

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