Moving out of a rental property can be stressful enough without worrying about the cleaning. But getting it right is the single best thing you can do to protect your deposit. Here's what landlords and letting agents actually look for.
The Basics: "As Good as Move-In Condition"
Most tenancy agreements state that the property should be returned in the same condition as when you moved in, minus fair wear and tear. This means:
- All rooms cleaned thoroughly
- Carpets vacuumed (and professionally cleaned if required by your agreement)
- Kitchen appliances cleaned inside and out
- Bathroom fixtures descaled and free of mould
- Windows cleaned inside
- All personal belongings removed
Room-by-Room Expectations
Kitchen
The kitchen gets the most scrutiny. Expect the inventory clerk to check:
- Inside the oven, grill, and hob (including drip trays)
- Inside and behind the fridge/freezer
- Inside cupboards and drawers
- Worktops, splashbacks, and sink
- Extractor fan and filters
Bathroom
- Toilet, bath, and shower thoroughly cleaned
- No limescale on taps or showerhead
- Grout and sealant free of mould
- Mirror and cabinets wiped clean
All Rooms
- Walls wiped down (no marks or scuffs)
- Light fittings and switches dusted
- Skirting boards cleaned
- Carpets vacuumed and stain-free
- Windows and sills cleaned
Professional vs DIY
While you can absolutely do this yourself, an end-of-tenancy clean typically takes 4-8 hours for a 2-bed flat. Professional cleaners know exactly what inventory clerks look for and many offer a guarantee — if the landlord isn't satisfied, they'll come back and re-clean for free.
A professional end-of-tenancy clean for a 2-bed property typically costs £150-£250 — far less than the deposit deduction you'd face for a substandard clean.
Our Advice
Start early, take photos of everything, and if in doubt, get a quote from a professional cleaner. Your deposit is worth it.
Good luck with your move! 🏠📦