Moving Out? Get Your Deposit Back: Essential Cleaning Guide for Tenants
Leaving a rented property in pristine condition is key to getting your deposit back. This guide outlines everything you need to know about end-of-tenancy cleaning:
Responsibilities and Expectations
• Tenants are responsible for keeping the property in good condition. This means regularly cleaning and maintaining it throughout your tenancy.
• Discrepancies between the initial inventory and your move-out condition can lead to deductions from your deposit. Landlords expect the property to be clean and free of damage beyond fair wear and tear.
Professional vs. DIY Cleaning
• Professional cleaning companies offer deep cleaning and guarantee a high standard. This is ideal if you're short on time or want peace of mind.
• DIY cleaning is cost-effective but time-consuming. Achieving professional results requires thoroughness and attention to detail.
Understanding Inventories and Reports
• An Inventory & Schedule of Condition Report details the property's condition at the start of your tenancy. It includes photos, notes on cleanliness, and a list of fixtures and fittings.
• A Check-In is done with the inventory clerk before you move in. This verifies the report's accuracy and allows you to note any discrepancies.
• A Check-Out is done at the end of your tenancy. The clerk compares the property's current condition to the original report and notes any differences.
Practical Tips for Tenants
• If the property needs cleaning before you move in, insist that the landlord does it before you sign the contract.
• Regular cleaning throughout your tenancy makes end-of-tenancy cleaning easier and cheaper.
• Repair any holes in walls, remove limescale build-up, and dry clean curtains, before moving out.
• If carpets are marked or burned, get a professional repair by a Carpet Doctor.
Bonus Resources
• Use our Natural Cleaning Products for effective and safe cleaning.
By following these tips and using our resources, you can ensure a smooth transition from your rented property and maximize your chances of getting your deposit back in full.
What's Included in an End-of-Tenancy Clean
Entrance area and hallways
. Entrance door to be cleaned.
. Skirting boards to be dusted and wiped over.
. Light switches to be wiped.
. Floor to be vacuumed and mopped if necessary.
Windows and windowsills to be cleaned inside (including window frames and venetian blinds).
Kitchen
. Door to be wiped.
. Light switches to be wiped (including paintwork around the light switch).
. All small kitchen appliances to be cleaned.
. Fridge to be wiped inside/outside (all shelving and containers to be removed and washed).
. Washingmachine to be wiped inside/outside. Soap tray to be removed and washed.
.Inside rubber seal to be cleaned.
. Kitchen cupboards to be wiped inside/outside.
. Sink to be cleaned and de-scaled.
. Windows and windowsills to be cleaned inside (including window frames and venetian blinds).
. All surfaces to be wiped.
. Floor to be vacuumed and mopped if necessary.
Bedrooms
. Door to be wiped.
. Windows and windowsills to be cleaned inside (including window frames and venetian blinds).
. All surfaces to be dusted.
. Skirting boards to be dusted and wiped over.
. Mirrors to be cleaned.
. Floor to be vacuumed and mopped if necessary.
Living Area
. Door to be wiped.
. Light switches to be wiped (including paintwork around the light switch).
. Windows and windowsills to be cleaned inside (including window frames and venetian blinds).
. All entrances to be dusted.
. All mirrors to be cleaned.
. Floor to be vacuumed and mopped if necessary.
Bathrooms
. All tiles, bath and/or shower to be scrubbed and de-scaled.
. Toilet and toilet seat to be cleaned and disinfected.
. Bathroom sink to be scrubbed and de-scaled.
. Door and door frame to be cleaned.
. Windows and windowsills to be cleaned inside (including window frames and venetian blinds)..
. All surfaces to be dusted and polished.
. All mirrors to be cleaned.
. Skirting boards to be dusted and wiped over.
. Floor to be vacuumed and mopped if necessary.
Services that may be provided for an additional cost
. Exterior Window Cleaning.
. Carpet Cleaning.
. Oven Cleaning (oven, hob and extractor).
