End of Tenancy Cleaning Checklist
Room-by-room cleaning checklist to pass inspection and get your full deposit back. Don't let your landlord keep your money!
The average UK tenancy deposit is £1,100 - and landlords try to keep as much as possible for "cleaning." Don't let them. This comprehensive checklist covers every area inspectors check, so you can get your full deposit back.
⚠️ Important: Before You Start
- Check your inventory: This documents the property's condition when you moved in
- Take photos: Document everything before and after cleaning
- Fair wear and tear: You don't pay for natural deterioration (faded curtains, worn carpet)
- Time it right: Clean after everything is moved out
1Kitchen Cleaning
Oven & Hob
- Remove all racks and trays, soak in oven cleaner
- Clean inside oven including door glass
- Degrease hob and extractor fan
- Clean/wipe filters or replace if very dirty
Fridge/Freezer
- Empty completely and defrost freezer
- Remove all shelves and drawers, wash with soap
- Wipe all interior surfaces
- Leave door ajar to prevent mould
General Kitchen
- Clean inside all cupboards and drawers
- Wipe all worktops and surfaces
- Clean sink and taps (remove limescale)
- Sweep and mop floor
- Remove all rubbish
2Bathroom Cleaning
- Descale shower screen and tiles
- Clean and disinfect toilet thoroughly
- Remove limescale from taps and shower head
- Clean basin and plug holes
- Clean mirrors and any glass surfaces
- Clean inside bathroom cabinets
- Mop floor and clean grout
- Replace any mouldy sealant if needed
3Living Areas & Bedrooms
- Dust all surfaces including skirting boards
- Clean inside wardrobes and cupboards
- Vacuum carpets thoroughly (hire cleaner if stained)
- Clean windows inside (and outside if ground floor)
- Wipe down doors, handles, and light switches
- Clean light fittings and lampshades
- Remove cobwebs from ceilings and corners
- Hoover/mop all floors
4Additional Areas
Hallway & Stairs
- Clean entrance door and doorframe
- Wipe skirting boards and banisters
- Vacuum/mop floors
- Remove marks from walls if possible
Windows
- Clean all windows inside
- Clean window sills and tracks
- Wipe blinds or dust curtains
Outside
- Mow lawn and tidy garden
- Remove rubbish and personal items
- Sweep pathways and driveway
- Clean shed/garage if included in tenancy
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don't clean when moving out?
Your landlord can deduct cleaning costs from your deposit. Professional end of tenancy cleaning typically costs £150-£400 depending on property size. It's usually cheaper to clean yourself or hire a cleaner than lose deposit money.
Do I have to pay for professional end of tenancy cleaning?
Not unless your tenancy agreement specifically requires it. You just need to return the property in the same condition as when you moved in (minus fair wear and tear). However, professional cleaning guarantees pass inspection.
How clean should a rental be when moving out?
As clean as when you moved in, documented on the inventory. This typically means: all surfaces wiped, floors cleaned, appliances degreased, bathrooms descaled, windows cleaned, and no rubbish left. Take photos as proof.
Can a landlord charge for cleaning?
Only if the property is not cleaned to the standard it was at check-in. They must provide receipts for any cleaning costs deducted from your deposit. You can dispute unfair deductions through your deposit protection scheme.
Too Busy to Clean?
Our house clearance service includes professional cleaning. We'll leave the property spotless and ready for inspection.