End of tenancy cleaning checklist: what landlords check
The rooms and details agents look at first, and how to get your deposit back without a dispute.
Most deposit disputes in the UK are about cleaning. The good news: they're avoidable if the property matches the check-in inventory.
Kitchen
- Oven, hob and extractor degreased, racks included.
- Fridge and freezer defrosted, cleaned and left open.
- Cupboards emptied and wiped inside.
Bathrooms
- Limescale removed from taps, showerheads and screens.
- Grout and sealant clean, extractor fan dusted.
Everywhere else
- Skirting boards, light switches, door frames and radiators wiped.
- Windows cleaned inside, sills and tracks included.
- Carpets vacuumed - and professionally cleaned if the tenancy agreement says so.
Hiring a cleaner
Ask whether the company works from an inventory-style checklist and whether it offers a free re-clean if the agent flags anything within a few days. Compare quotes for the same scope - an oven clean or carpet clean can be extra.