Book end-of-tenancy cleaning.

Unlike a standard weekly clean, an end of tenancy service targets hidden grime, limescale, and accumulated dust in areas often overlooked. Professional cleaners work to a specific "inventory checklist" to ensure the property meets the high standards required by the Deposit Protection Service (DPS) and other UK schemes.

What Does the Work Involve?

• Kitchen Deep Clean: Degreasing hobs, extractors, and splashbacks; cleaning the interior and exterior of all cupboards and drawers; descaling sinks and taps; and cleaning white goods (fridge/freezer, dishwasher, washing machine).
• Bathroom Sanitisation: Full descaling of showerheads, screens, and tiles; removing soap scum from baths and basins; and deep-cleaning toilets, including the removal of limescale.
• Internal Windows and Glass: Cleaning all internal glass, window sills, and frames to a smear-free finish; polishing mirrors and glass furniture.
• Woodwork and Fixtures: Dusting and wiping down skirting boards, architraves, door frames, and the tops of doors; cleaning light switches, sockets, and radiators.
• Floor Care: Thorough vacuuming of all carpets and rugs; mopping and sanitising hard floors (laminate, tile, or wood).
• High-Level Dusting: Removing cobwebs from corners and ceilings; cleaning light fittings and lampshades.
• External Areas (Optional): Sweeping balconies or patios and cleaning external window glass (usually quoted as an add-on).

Typical Costs

Prices for end of tenancy cleaning vary based on the size of the property, its location in the UK, and the level of "add-on" services required, such as professional carpet steaming or oven cleaning.

The primary factors affecting your quote include the presence of pets (which may require a specialist "flea treatment" clean), the level of limescale in hard-water areas like South East England, and whether the property is furnished or unfurnished.

How Long Does It Take?

• Studio or 1-Bedroom Flat: 3 to 5 hours (usually 1-2 cleaners).
• 2 to 3-Bedroom House: 5 to 8 hours (usually 2-3 cleaners).
• Large 4+ Bedroom Family Home: 8 to 12+ hours (often requires a full day with a larger team).
• Additional Services: Add 1 hour for a professional oven clean and 30-45 minutes per room for carpet steam cleaning.

DIY or Professional?

While you can legally clean the property yourself, professional cleaning is highly recommended for deposit security. Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, landlords cannot force you to use a specific cleaning company, but they can insist the property is cleaned to a professional standard.

Professional cleaners provide an invoice and a guarantee. If the landlord's inventory clerk finds an issue, most reputable cleaning companies will return to the property free of charge to rectify it. DIY cleaning rarely achieves the same result, and a failed inventory check can cost significantly more in landlord-deducted fees than the initial cost of a pro clean.

Choosing the Right Tradesperson

• Insurance: Ensure the company has Public Liability Insurance (minimum £1 million) to cover accidental damage to the property.
• The Guarantee: Ask if they offer a "re-clean guarantee" (typically 48-72 hours) if the inventory check identifies missed areas.
• Checklists: Confirm they work to a standard industry checklist that covers all areas required by major UK letting agents.
• Staffing: Ask if the cleaners are DBS-checked and if they are direct employees or sub-contractors.

Pro Tip: Always ask for a "fixed price" quote rather than an hourly rate. End of tenancy cleaning is a task-based job, and an hourly rate can lead to unexpected costs if the property is in worse condition than anticipated.

UK Regulations

• Tenant Fees Act 2019: Landlords cannot charge for professional cleaning as a "fee," but they can claim damages via the deposit if the property isn't returned in its original state (minus fair wear and tear).
• Deposit Protection Schemes: If a dispute arises, you will need your professional cleaning invoice as evidence to present to the DPS, MyDeposits, or the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS).
• COSHH: Professional cleaners must follow the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations when using industrial-strength descalers or degreasers.

Common Problems

• No Utilities: Cleaners require hot water and electricity. If the accounts are closed and the power is off, the team cannot perform a deep clean.
• Leftover Items: Most cleaners will not remove bulk rubbish or furniture left behind. This must be cleared beforehand to avoid extra disposal fees.
• Parking and Access: In urban areas, lack of parking or restricted access (e.g., no lift for heavy equipment) can lead to delays or "failed arrival" charges.
• Hidden Mould: Standard cleaning does not always include specialist mould remediation. Heavy black mould on silicone sealant often requires replacement rather than just cleaning.

Frequently Asked Questions