Moving house is stressful. Between packing boxes, sorting out bills, and trying to get everything out on time, cleaning is usually the last thing you want to think about. But if you’re renting in London, it’s also one of the most important steps in getting your deposit back. And that’s where end of tenancy cleaning comes in.
A lot of tenants wonder: Do I really need to book a professional clean? What exactly gets done? And is it worth the money? Let’s cut through the noise and talk about what actually matters when it comes to end of tenancy cleaning.
Why it matters
Most tenancy agreements in London state that the property must be left in a “professionally cleaned” condition. It doesn’t mean the landlord expects miracles, but they do want the place looking as good as when you first moved in. The truth is, cleaning is the number one reason deposits get docked. Greasy ovens, grubby carpets, and limescale in the bathroom are the usual suspects.
You can do it yourself if you’ve got the time and the elbow grease, but the risk is that if your landlord isn’t happy, they’ll call in a cleaner anyway — and take the cost out of your deposit. Often that ends up more expensive than if you’d hired someone in the first place.
Furthermore, it’s worth checking what your letting agreement says precisely. In some contracts it is specifically stated that the tenant needs to provide a receipt for a professional end of tenancy cleaning service. And some other agencies take it even further – they have a list of approved partners when it comes to that big move out clean.
What’s included (and what isn’t)
A proper end of tenancy clean is much more thorough than your normal weekend tidy. It usually covers:
- Carpets and hard floors (but booked as a separate service)
- Ovens, hobs, and kitchen appliances
- Cupboards inside and out
- Bathrooms, including descaling taps and tiles
- Windows and skirting boards
- Dusting everywhere (yes, even the top of the wardrobe!)
But here’s the catch: there are things it doesn’t cover. Don’t expect wall repairs, rubbish clearance, or outside windows unless you’ve arranged it. Carpets can be deep cleaned, but if they’re badly stained or worn, that’s a different job altogether. Always check what’s on the cleaning company’s checklist so you know where you stand.
Timing is everything
If you do go down the professional route, make sure you book the clean after your belongings are out. There’s no point paying for a spotless carpet if you’re still dragging boxes across it. Ideally, have the cleaning done the day before you hand back the keys. That way, if there are any issues, you’ve still got time to sort them.
What it costs in London
Prices vary depending on the size of your property, but to give you an idea:
- A studio flat: from around £120
- One or two-bed flat: £180–£300
- Larger homes: £300 upwards
Extras like carpet shampooing or upholstery cleaning usually cost more, so it’s worth asking for a full quote upfront. Be wary of companies that advertise a very low price and then add on charges for every little thing.
Final thoughts
End of tenancy cleaning might feel like just another hassle when you’re moving, but it’s often the difference between getting your full deposit back or not. Think of it less as an expense, and more as an insurance policy for your money. If you know what’s included, what isn’t, and how much you should be paying, you can plan ahead and avoid any last-minute surprises.
At the end of the day, moving is stressful enough — a bit of help with the cleaning can make the whole process that little bit smoother.
