What Landlords Actually Check During an End-of-Tenancy Clean
We’ve had one of my busiest years yet! And…One of our high stakes has been End-of-Tenancy cleans.
We hear the gasp sometimes when we quote but you can’t negotiate on quality. There’s always the option of doing it yourself and risk a very good chunk of your deposit being deducted or you let a professional handle it.
Do it well, and you walk away with your full deposit (minus the cleaning charge). Skip corners, and you might end up paying for it—literally.
The key? Knowing what landlords (and agents) notice during a final inspection.
Here’s what’s really on their checklist:
1. The Kitchen (Especially the Oven!)
Landlords don’t expect a showroom kitchen—but they do expect it to be spotless.
Oven and hob: Any burnt-on food or grease can lead to deductions.
Cupboards: Empty and wiped down inside and out, top and bottom.
Fridge/freezer: Defrosted, cleaned, and left ajar to prevent mould and air out any odour.
Sink area: Limescale, food residue, and stains are a no-go. No compromise.
2. Bathrooms: Clean, Not Just Tidy
Toilet, sink, shower: Scrubbed until sparkling.
Taps and fittings: Descaled and shiny.
Tiles and grout: Free from mould and residue.
Mirror: Streak-free with no fingerprints or splashes.
3. Floors and Carpets: The Hidden Dirt Trap
Vacuuming is a start, but for properties with pets, spills, or heavy wear, professional carpet cleaning might be required. High-traffic areas especially need attention. And Yes! Deep Shampoo carpet cleaning is NOT cheap so a tip when you move into a property – keep your home a no shoe zone.
4. Walls, Skirting Boards & Doors
Marks, scuffs, or dents: These get noticed quickly. Professional cleaners can rub off minor marks but best believe there is nothing we can do about dents, holes and normal wear and tear so fix that if you don’t want any deductions.
Dust on skirting boards and door frames: An often-missed detail.
Cobwebs in corners or around light fixtures: Remove them for a finished look.
5. Windows & Glass
People underestimate the power of clean windows. Landlords often check inside glass for streaks, dust on frames, and finger marks on mirrors or glossy surfaces.
6. Leave No Trace
Check outdoor areas, cupboards, lofts, and drawers. Remove all rubbish and unwanted items. Leaving behind anything at all can count against you—even if it seems harmless.
Even if the property looks “fine,” landlords are looking for signs of effort, cleanliness, and care. A quick once-over won’t cut it. The house belongs to someone else and they also want to hand it over to another tenant or family in the same condition you found it in.