Moving out guide
End of Tenancy Cleaning Checklist: What Tenants and Landlords Should Expect
An end of tenancy clean should return the property to the condition recorded at check-in, allowing for fair wear and tear. In practice that means a detailed clean of the kitchen, oven, bathrooms, floors, skirting, doors and internal glass, checked against the original inventory. A professional clean cannot guarantee your deposit, because that decision rests with the landlord, agent and deposit scheme, but it does make sure cleaning problems are dealt with before check-out.
Start with the check-in inventory
The original inventory or condition report is your starting point. Look at the photographs and written descriptions of each room when the tenancy began, and pay particular attention to kitchens, bathrooms, flooring and appliances. The check-out clerk will compare the property against that report, not against an ideal standard.
Kitchen
Kitchens are where most cleaning deductions arise. A thorough clean covers worktops, cupboard fronts and interiors, sinks, taps, splashbacks, tiles and accessible surfaces. Grease builds up around extractors, on cupboard tops and along edges that are easy to miss in everyday cleaning.
Ovens usually need detailed degreasing of the interior, racks, trays and door glass. Fridges, freezers, dishwashers and washing machines should be included when they form part of the agreed scope: defrost and dry the freezer in advance so it can be cleaned properly.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms need extra time because of limescale, soap residue and moisture. Clean sanitary ware, showers, screens, baths, tiles, grout lines, mirrors, taps and accessible fittings. Check extractor fan covers and the floor behind the toilet, which inspectors often look at.
Floors and carpets
Vacuum carpets thoroughly, including edges and under furniture that stays in the property. Clean hard floors with methods suited to the surface. Professional carpet cleaning may be needed where the tenancy agreement requires it or where the condition warrants it.
Details people commonly miss
- skirting boards and door frames
- light switches, sockets and door handles
- light fittings and lampshades
- internal window glass, frames and sills
- inside cupboards and wardrobes
- behind and under movable appliances
- radiators and the wall behind them
Walking through the property room by room with the inventory in hand prevents last-minute surprises.
When to book a professional clean
Book after your belongings have been removed and before the final inspection. Around two weeks' notice helps, especially near month end and during student changeover periods. A professional clean is particularly useful when the property is large, heavily used or has to be finished within a tight moving schedule, and a professional team works from a written task list with the right equipment.
Need help? Talk to MG Executive Cleaners
Our end of tenancy cleaning service covers Peterborough and surrounding areas. Send your postcode and we will confirm scope and price.
See our End of tenancy cleaning service for full details.