If you’re preparing to leave your rented property, you might be wondering about the responsibilities and costs involved in the end of tenancy cleaning process. Landlords typically expect their property to be in excellent condition when a tenant moves out, as it allows them to attract new tenants easily. If you’re someone who is moving out, wants to secure the return of your deposit, and is seeking information about end of tenancy cleaning, this article is for you.
What does end of tenancy cleaning entail?

End of tenancy cleaning refers to a comprehensive cleaning process that must be carried out when a tenant vacates a rented property. Before returning the tenant’s deposit, the landlord typically conducts an inspection to assess the cleanliness of the place. The requirement for an end of tenancy clean is usually specified in the tenancy agreement, so it’s essential to review your contract to understand the obligations.
End of tenancy cleaning can be performed by the tenant or by a professional cleaning company. Hiring a professional cleaning team involves a one-time fee, ensuring that your property is thoroughly cleaned to meet your landlord’s expectations and increase the likelihood of receiving your deposit refund. However, hiring a domestic cleaner for end of tenancy cleaning may not be ideal, as they may prioritize certain tasks within the limited time allotted.
Regarding pricing, the cost of end of tenancy cleaning is typically not based on an hourly rate, regardless of how long it takes to complete the cleaning service.
Who is responsible for cleaning the property?
The responsibility for end of tenancy cleaning usually falls on the tenant, according to standard rental contracts. The property should be left in the same level of cleanliness as it was when the tenant first moved in. Most contracts do not specify how the cleaning should be carried out, giving the tenant the freedom to decide on the approach.
If you choose to clean the rental property yourself, it’s advisable to refer to the move-in inventory report. This report can serve as a checklist to ensure that all necessary tasks are completed to meet your landlord’s inspection standards.
Who covers the cost of end of tenancy cleaning?
Typically, the tenant is responsible for covering the expenses of end of tenancy cleaning. It is rare for landlords to assume this responsibility. However, if a tenant abruptly vacates the property without notice, which constitutes a breach of the tenancy agreement, the landlord may retain the deposit and use it to fund a deep clean of the property.
Although the tenant is not legally obligated to hire professional cleaners, they may still need to bear some expenses if they choose to clean the property themselves in order to save money. DIY cleaning can be a suitable option for small and generally well-maintained rented properties. However, it’s important to consider additional tasks such as carpet and oven cleaning. If the property has carpets, the tenant will likely have to pay for steam cleaning to remove deep-seated dirt. Similarly, cleaning an oven often requires the use of strong and expensive detergents, along with a significant amount of time and effort. If the oven hasn’t been deep-cleaned in a while, extra care is needed. It’s advisable to wear protective gear when cleaning the oven.
If you opt for DIY cleaning, set aside a dedicated day to conduct a thorough and detailed clean. The property should be returned to the landlord in the same condition it was received, which typically means it should be spotless. Consider utilising an end of tenancy cleaning checklist to guide you through the process, providing helpful tips and advice on how to clean each room of the property effectively.
If you don’t have the time or desire to clean the property yourself, you can hire an end of tenancy cleaning team. By paying a one-time fee, professional cleaners will take care of all the necessary tasks
to satisfy your landlord’s expectations and ensure the return of your deposit. A reputable cleaning company may even offer a deposit return guarantee. In the event that your landlord is not satisfied with the cleaning job, some cleaning services provide a free re-clean within three days.
Choosing a professional end of tenancy cleaning company
While the cost of hiring a professional cleaning team may seem like an additional expense, it pales in comparison to the potential loss of your full deposit. Therefore, if you decide to rely on professional cleaners, our dedicated cleaners are always ready to assist you.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be considered as definitive legal advice.