Deep cleaning service

For UK homeowners, a deep clean is often essential when moving house (End of Tenancy), after building work, or as a seasonal "spring clean" to reset the hygiene levels of the property. It ensures a healthier living environment and can significantly extend the lifespan of your fixtures and fittings.

What Does the Work Involve?

• Kitchen Sanitisation: Full degreasing of wall tiles, splashbacks, and exterior cabinetry. Internal cleaning of the microwave and extractor fan filters is standard.
• Bathroom Descaling: Intensive removal of limescale from taps, showerheads, and screens. Grout is scrubbed, and all porcelain is polished and sanitised.
• High-Level Dusting: Removal of cobwebs and dust from ceiling roses, light fittings, tops of wardrobes, and curtain rails.
• Woodwork and Joinery: Detailed cleaning of skirting boards, door frames, architraves, and the tops of doors.
• Window Internals: Cleaning of internal glass, frames, and sills to remove accumulated soot and condensation marks.
• Floor Care: Edge-to-edge vacuuming (including moving light furniture) and thorough mopping of hard floors with appropriate detergents.

Typical Costs

Deep cleaning is usually quoted as a fixed price based on the number of rooms, though some companies charge hourly for heavily soiled properties. Prices include professional-grade chemicals and equipment.

Total costs are influenced by the property's condition, the presence of pet hair, and your location (London and the South East typically see a 20% premium). Always clarify if VAT is included in your initial quote.

How Long Does It Take?

• Small Flats (1-2 Bed): 3 to 5 hours with a single cleaner or a small team.
• Average Family Home (3 Bed): 6 to 10 man-hours, often completed in half a day by a team of two.
• Large Properties or "Blitz" Cleans: 12+ man-hours; may require a full day or multiple visits if the property is heavily neglected.
• Post-Renovation Cleans: These take 20-30% longer due to the persistent nature of fine construction dust.

DIY or Professional?

While you can deep clean a home yourself, it is physically demanding and time-consuming. Professionals use industrial-grade steamers, high-alkaline degreasers, and HEPA-filter vacuums that achieve a level of "clinical" clean difficult to replicate with supermarket products.

If you are a tenant seeking a deposit refund, a professional receipt is often the only way to prove the property has been cleaned to the required standard.

Professionals are also trained in COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health), ensuring that powerful chemicals don't damage delicate surfaces like natural stone or high-gloss cabinetry.

Choosing the Right Tradesperson

• Insurance: Ensure they have Public Liability Insurance (minimum £1 million) to cover accidental damage to your home.
• Vetting: Ask if staff are DBS-checked, especially if you plan to provide a key for access while you are out.
• Equipment: Confirm they bring their own professional-grade supplies; a "pro" asking to use your vacuum is a red flag.
• Guarantee: Look for companies that offer a "re-clean guarantee" (usually 48-72 hours) if any areas are missed.

Questions to ask:

• "Does your quote include the oven, or is that a separate 'add-on' service?"
• "What is your policy if a cleaner accidentally damages a fixture or fitting?"
• "Do you provide a checklist of completed tasks once the job is finished?"

UK Regulations

• COSHH: Cleaners must manage hazardous substances safely to prevent harm to themselves or residents.
• Employment Status: Ensure the company is responsible for their cleaners' NI and tax; otherwise, you could technically be classed as an employer.
• Waste Disposal: If the clean involves removing large amounts of rubbish, the provider must hold a valid Lower Tier Waste Carrier License.

Common Problems

• Underestimating Condition: If the property is significantly dirtier than described, the price may increase upon arrival.
• Hidden Damage: Deep cleaning often reveals existing scratches or stains previously hidden by grime; a good cleaner will point these out before starting.
• Drying Times: If carpets or upholstery are cleaned as part of the package, the rooms may be unusable for 4-6 hours due to dampness.
• Chemical Sensitivity: Strong cleaning agents can leave a lingering scent; always request "eco-friendly" or "fragrance-free" options in advance if you have allergies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be at home during the deep clean?

No, most professional cleaning companies are happy to work while you are out. You can arrange a key collection or use a key safe; however, it is recommended to be present at the start to walk through the scope and at the end to inspect the work.

Is oven cleaning included in a standard deep clean?

Usually, no. Most companies treat oven cleaning as a specialist "add-on" because it requires specific dip-tanks and caustic chemicals. Always check your itemised quote to see what is included.

What is the difference between a deep clean and an end-of-tenancy clean?

They are very similar, but an End of Tenancy (EOT) clean is more rigid. It specifically follows the checklists used by letting agents and inventory clerks, often including the insides of all cupboards, drawers, and appliances as standard.

How often should I have a deep clean?

For most UK households, a professional deep clean once or twice a year (typically Spring and Autumn) is sufficient to maintain the property and keep allergens at bay.

Will the cleaners move my furniture?

Cleaners will typically move light furniture (chairs, side tables, rugs) to clean underneath. However, for health and safety reasons, they usually won't move heavy wardrobes, sofas, or large appliances unless specifically agreed and assisted.