Blog>Planning Guides>Planning for end of tenancy cleaning
Last updated: 23 July 2024
Planning for end of tenancy cleaning
If you’re planning to move out of your rental property, we’ve put together this guide with everything you need to know for end of tenancy cleaning.
There’s a lot to think about when moving home, but you can tick one thing off your list by hiring a professional end of tenancy cleaning service.
In this guide, we look at the reasons why you should organise an end of tenancy clean, how to prepare for it, and how much it might cost.
Keep reading to find out more,
What is end of tenancy cleaning?
End of tenancy cleaning is a thorough deep cleaning service for when a tenant moves out of a rental property.
It goes beyond regular housekeeping to make sure that the property is left in the same condition as it was at the start of the tenancy.
A typical end of tenancy cleaning service will cover the following:
A deep clean of all rooms in the property, including walls, floors, ceilings, furniture and appliances
Dusting and wiping down all surfaces, including skirting boards and light fixtures
Removing any stains, marks, or mould from the property
Cleaning and disinfecting all major appliances, such as the oven, fridge, and washing machine
Washing the inside and outside of all windows (where accessible)
The aim of end of tenancy cleaning is to leave the property spotless and ready for new tenants to move in.
Benefits of professional end of tenancy cleaning
If you’re debating whether or not to pay for professional end of tenancy cleaning, here are a few reasons why it’s a good idea:
Get your deposit back: By leaving the property in an immaculate condition, you’re more likely to have your full deposit returned to you – avoiding disputes with your landlord
Save time and effort: Professional cleaners will have the skills and equipment to clean your home efficiently and to a high standard – and often much quicker than DIY cleaning
Minimise your stress levels: You’ll have peace of mind knowing that the cleaning is taken care of and it’s one less thing for you to do before you move
Comply with your lease: Many rental agreements will state that tenants must organise professional-level cleaning of the property before moving out
Get better references: Landlords will often give positive references to tenants who leave their properties in excellent condition
Want to speak to local end of tenancy cleaners? Enter your postcode in the box below and browse approved cleaning services in your area:
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7 steps to prepare for end of tenancy cleaning
To help you plan for moving out and getting your property looking spotless, here are the key steps to take:
Check your tenancy agreement – It’s a good idea to read the details of your tenancy agreement to see what cleaning is required before you move out
Make a cleaning checklist – Go room by room and make a list of all the areas in the property that need cleaning and make a note of any that need extra attention, e.g. kitchen appliances or bathroom tiles
Research professional cleaners – Don’t just hire the first cleaner you find, do your homework and read online reviews to find an experienced, reliable cleaning service
Get multiple quotes – Before deciding who to hire, make sure you get multiple quotes from local cleaners to compare
Book your cleaner in advance – The best professional cleaners will be busy, so you’ll want to plan ahead and book them in as early as possible
Inspect the results – Do a thorough walk-through once your cleaner finishes the job to make sure everything is spotless
Get proof of the property’s condition – Take photos or videos of the property after the cleaning is finished so that you have proof of its condition when you hand over the keys
Plan your budget
It’s important to know how much end of tenancy cleaning will cost and to plan accordingly.
The best way to understand prices is to get quotes from multiple cleaning services near you.
To help you get started, here are some average end of tenancy cleaning prices in the UK:
Studio apartment – £180
1-bed apartment – £220
2-bed apartment – £260
4-bed house – £370
To learn more about prices, check out our guide to end of tenancy cleaning costs.
Find the best end of tenancy cleaners near you
When it comes to finding the best cleaners in your area, we’re here to help.
To browse approved local cleaners near you, enter your postcode and see who comes highly rated in your area:
See the tradespeople we've checked and recommend for your job
Other useful guides for moving house
When moving home, it’s not just cleaners that can help out. You might need the help of removal companies, a handyperson, or even a gardener.
Here are some guides you might find helpful to plan your move:
FAQs
How far in advance do I need to book my end of tenancy cleaning?
There’s no fixed timeframe for booking ahead, but the best cleaners will be busy – so book early to avoid disappointment.
It’s sensible to organise your end of tenancy cleaning to happen after you've moved out most of your belongings. That way your cleaner has easy access to all areas of the property.
Which areas of my property need cleaning at the end of my tenancy?
All rooms and areas of a property need to be cleaned at the end of a tenancy. Pay particular attention to areas that might need special cleaning, such as:
Carpets and upholstery, especially if stained
Major appliances, including the oven, fridge-freezer, washing machine, and dishwasher
Windows
Kitchen and bathroom(s)
See the tradespeople we've checked and recommend for your job
See the tradespeople we've checked and recommend for your job