How Mid-Tenancy Cleaning Can Reduce End of Tenancy Costs: A Data Analysis

This may shock many, but more than 63% of UK tenants lose around £250 from their deposits, with cleaning problems representing one of the top reasons. Moving out is a complex process, and many renters feel overwhelmed with many things to juggle. Leaving the rental in pristine condition certainly doesn't make it easier, but there are many ways to alleviate that pressure. One is to undertake mid-tenancy cleaning. Backed by real data, this practice is a wise move to reduce the costs of end-of-tenancy cleaning and the stress at handovers. Keep reading to get the details!

Taking a closer look at the complete tenancy cleaning cycle

The complete tenancy cleaning cycle refers to a three-stage approach to maintain a rented place clean and hygienic from the day of move-in to the day of move-out. The move-in cleaning is a wall-to-wall deep clean performed before renters occupy the rental. It sets a clear standard of cleanliness, and lease terms often require it, and it’s essential for documentation and deposit protection.

Mid-tenancy cleaning is often overlooked andcomprises targeted deep cleaning of high-use areas (kitchens, bathrooms, carpets, and appliances). The focus is to stop grime, scale, and damage from aggravating, easing out end-of-tenancy cleaning later.

The most expensive and comprehensive clean is end-of-tenancy cleaning, which brings the property to its original condition. It affects the deposit refund and aims to achieve the cleanliness standards of landlords and letting agents.

Mid-stage neglect causes issues at check-out. Here’s how!

Many renters don’t realise that skipping or neglecting mid-tenancy cleaning makes them lose their deposit at move-out. Without regular deep cleaning during a lease, everyday mess will quickly become long-term. Limescale deeply sets on bathroom fixtures, grease hardens on cooker hoods, and stains set deeply within the carpets’ fibres.

At the end of the lease, the collected grime will require intensive efforts, time, and specialist methods—sometimes even replacement will be necessary. Professionals can handle such issues, but the services will cost more.

Also, landlords and agents see “excessive build-up” as neglect, not as normal wear and tear, so tenants are liable at check-out. All in all, skipping mid-tenancy cleaning aggravates minor problems and leads to expensive cleaning, which is easy to avoid with proper cleaning in the middle of the lease.

What are the common reasons for deposit deductions?

Cleaning problems make up the top reason for deposit deductions. Here’s a snapshot of the typical and expensive cleaning-related deductions:

• Carpet stains from food spills, pet mess, and embedded dirt- 45–55%
• Ovens, hobs, extractor fans, and microwaves with built-up grease and burnt-on residue--35–40%)
• Bathroom limescale, hard water stains on taps, shower screens, and tiles, along with black mould in grout and sealant--30–35%
• Dust and general dirt on skirting boards, window sills, vents, and behind furniture--25–30%
• Kitchen build-up, respectively, grease on cabinets, stained sinks, and dirty fridges or freezers--20–25%

Cleaning costs vs. deposit deductions

Cleaning Issue	Average Deduction	Cost of Mid-Tenancy/Preventive Clean
Carpet stains & deep dirt	£100–£200	£60–£90 (per room)
Oven & hob grime	£60–£120	£40–£60
Bathroom limescale/mould	£50–£100	£40–£70
General dust and neglect	£50–£80	£30–£50
Full-property cleaning charges	£250–£750+	£120–£250 (mid-clean + lighter exit clean)

Spending £100–£200during the tenancy on targeted areas can save you £250–£750+at move-out, especially in high-risk zones like bathrooms and kitchens. Moreover, many landlords and agents will charge premium rates for post-checkout cleaning, typically higher than renters would pay if they booked it themselves.

Mid-tenancy cleaning—the preventive steps that many tenants skip

Mid-tenancy cleaning is a comprehensive clean performed at the middle of the lease or every 3-6 months for longer leases. It focuses on the collected dirt and wear that daily cleaning leaves behind.

Mid-tenancy cleaning includes:

Kitchens

Deep cleaning of hobs, ovens, extractor fans, backsplashes, cupboard fronts and grease removal from high-touch surfaces and appliance interiors (fridge, microwave, etc.).

Bathrooms
Descaling taps, showerheads, and tiles, removing mould and mildew from grout, silicone, and corners, polishing mirrors, wiping radiators, and sanitising high-use areas.

Carpets & flooring
Vacuuming and shampooing carpets, especially in high-traffic areas, mopping and treating wooden or tiled floors.

Appliance maintenance
Cleaning behind and underneath appliances (where dust and debris collect), checking for buildup in washing machine drawers and filters, and wiping down white goods.

Dusting & detailing
Complete dusting of skirting boards, light fixtures, radiators, window sills, and internal doors.

Ventilation & air quality:
Wiping extractor fans and cleaning window frames to reduce damp buildup and maintain airflow.

Mid-tenancy cleaning prevents wear.

Mid-tenancy cleaning is vital because regular, professional upkeep reduces long-term wear and tear. DPS (Deposit Protection Service) reports show that cleaning issues account for more than 60% of deposit disputes, and there are fewer claims when properties are regularly professionally cleaned.

Internal case data from cleaning companies, such as Buzz Maids, shows that tenants who plan a mid-tenancy clean experience 40-60% fewer deductions, shorter final clean times (by 30-50%), and even £200 in average deposit savings.

Many landlords agree that regular cleaning leads to less damage to surfaces, prevents appliance degradation and hygiene complaints at inspections. They all increase the chance of full deposit refunds and tenant referrals.

Property maintenance experts say regular cleaning lowers the risk of “compound damage” effects such as grime eroding paint and sealant, unaddressed limescale hardening and cracking fittings, and dirt buildup in carpets shortening their lifespan.

Essentially, mid-tenancy cleaning expands the durability of surfaces and appliances, supports landlord goodwill, and contributes to a stress-free move-out process.

Various types of properties need distinct cleaning approaches

Type and age of the property profoundly impact mid-tenancy cleaning.

Modern flats & new builds

Such properties typically have sleek finishes, built-in appliances, and modern materials that easily show dust, fingerprints, and watermarks. Neglect will dull shiny surfaces, stain grout lines, or damage the high-spec appliances. Regular cleaning will maintain the “new-build” feel expected at handovers.

Period homes (Victorian, Edwardian, etc.)

Period properties often have porous materials (stone tiles, original wood floors), ageing sealants, and difficult-to-reach areas like high ceilings, decorative cornicing, and sash windows. The risk of damp and mould problems is higher, and deep cleaning has to preserve the delicate features. Regularly cleaning historic features prevents expensive damage that won’t pass as “normal wear and tear”.

Shared HMOS (Houses in Multiple Occupation)

Shared kitchens and bathrooms, high foot traffic, and inconsistent cleaning standards among renters are common issues with these properties. Dirt and damage accumulate faster, and regular professional cleans protect tenants from deposit deductions and fill the gap when someone skips their cleaning duties.

Furnished vs. unfurnished

Upholstery, mattresses, and curtains require regular attention to prevent stains and odours, while in unfurnished properties, the focus is on walls, floors, and appliances—areas where dirt deposits are visible.

Mid-tenancy cleaning affects outcomes—here’s how

There’s a strong correlation between mid-tenancy cleaning and higher deposit refund rates.

Cleaning Behavior	% of Tenants Receiving Full Deposit Return
Scheduled Mid-Tenancy Cleaning	82% – 89%
No Mid-Tenancy Cleaning (Standard Cleaning Only)	47% – 58%
No Evidence of Professional Cleaning	30% – 42%

Key observations

• Tenants who chose mid-tenancy cleaning were twice as likely to get their deposit back as those who only cleaned before moving out.
• According to Buzz Maids’ internal data and other cleaning providers, professional mid-tenancy cleaning reduced cleaning-related disputes by up to 60% during move-out inspections.
• In properties with high wear risk (e.g., shared flats or homes with pets), the deposit recovery gap was even wider.

Mid-tenancy cleaning is a measurable financial strategy that boosts the chances of full deposit refunds at the end of the lease.

Mid-Tenancy + Light End-of-Tenancy Cleaning vs. Intensive One-Off Cleans

Mid-tenancy + light end-of-tenancy cleaning:

This approach divides the cleaning into two parts: a thorough clean during the tenancy and a lighter final clean before vacating the rental.

Mid-tenancy cleaning (1–2 times during tenancy)

Based on property size and condition, the average cost is £100–£150 per clean (depending on property size and condition). The scope is deep cleaning the high-use areas like kitchens, bathrooms, carpets, appliance upkeep, and dusting.

Light end-of-tenancy clean

Based on property size, type, and condition, the average cost is £120–£250 (depending on property type, size, and condition). The focus is on final touches, such as sanitising bathrooms and kitchens, and light cleaning floors, windows, and remaining areas.

The total cost ranges from £220 to £400 for mid + light end-of-tenancy cleaning.

Intensive one-off end-of-tenancy clean

This deep clean is comprehensive, performed before moving out, and is necessary when there was no maintenance during the tenancy. The average cost is £250–£750+, depending on property size and condition. The scope is a complete deep clean of the property, including carpets, upholstery, appliances, oven cleaning, and a detailed scrub of all surfaces.

The total cost for a single service is £250–£750+.

Cost comparison

Cleaning Type	Average Cost Range
Mid-Tenancy + Light End-of-Tenancy Cleaning	£220 – £400
One-Off Intensive End-of-Tenancy Cleaning	£250 – £750+

Essentially, the cost of mid-tenancy and light end-of-tenancy cleaning is typically 30%–50% less than that of a single, intensive final clean.

Targeted interventions—the hot spots causing deposit loss

High-risk areas for deposit deductions

Kitchens

Common problems in the kitchen are grease buildup and food residue in hobs, ovens, extractor fans, and surfaces. Spills and food residue causing stains on worktops, neglected stains and food spills inside appliances causing odours are also hot spots in the kitchen.

Specialist cleaning agents and methods are necessary to remove hardened grease; a less-than-spotless hob or oven will cause deductions. Not addressing grease will damage surfaces and appliances, incur replacement costs, and incur cleaning fees.

Bathrooms

Limescale collects quickly on taps, tiles, and showerheads and causes difficult-to-remove deposits. Mould around windows, showers, and grout lines thrives in a humid environment, damages surfaces, and causes health issues. Soap scum and grime around bathtubs, shower doors, and sinks can collect and cause deposits difficult to remove. Such issues are seen as signs of tenant neglect—mould spreading can even cause the need to replace bathroom fittings. Mould growth can even lead to health complaints when the property is uninhabitable.

Flooring

Spills, pet accidents, and everyday dirt can cause permanent stains requiring deep cleaning or replacement. Scratches, scuffs, or water damage from spills can affect the quality of wooden floors, while incorrect cleaning can result in warping/discolouration of floors. Dirt and dust in high-traffic areas (hallways, living rooms) collect and damage the flooring over time.

If stains and scratches cannot be removed, replacement of wooden floors may be necessary—this is a lot more expensive than cleaning. If not correctly cared for, flooring wear speeds up, and tenants will face deposit deductions that could have been avoided with regular cleaning.

Mid-tenancy cleaning ensures impressive ROI in deposit retention

Focusing on high-risk areas for mid-tenancy cleaning ensures the highest return on investment (ROI) regarding deposit refunds.

Kitchens

Mid-tenancy cleaning in the kitchen, mainly focusing on grease removal, oven cleaning, and appliance maintenance, has a high return in deposit retention. Data shows that tenants who chose mid-tenancy cleaning, focusing on deep kitchen cleaning, had 45% higher chances of receiving the deposit in full.

Bathrooms

The risk of mould growth, limescale buildup, and soap scum is high in bathrooms and, not addressed, they cause deposit refunds. Tenants who invested in regular bathroom cleaning experienced a 60%decrease in the risk of mould-related deposit deductions.

Carpets & flooring

Daily use causes wear and tear of carpets and flooring, but deep cleaning in the middle of the lease prevents permanent staining and lowers the risk of carpet replacement. Renters who hired professional carpet cleaners at mid-tenancy were 30% more likely to get their deposits back in full. Hardwood and laminate floors are vulnerable to scratches, scuffs, and water damage –all avoidable with mid-tenancy cleaning.

General surfaces & air quality

Dust and dirt buildup on walls, windows, windowsills, baseboards, vents, and light fixtures can cause long-term discolouration and wear. Mid-tenancy cleaning prevents gradual degradation, and tenants who regularly clean these surfaces experience a 50% decrease in surface-related deductions at move-out.

In properties with pets or heavy foot traffic, handling air quality and dust through mid-tenancy cleaning prevents allergies and health issues that could cause complaints and financial penalties.

High-traffic zones (entryways & hallways)

High-traffic areas often present the most wear, especially in properties with several renters. Properties with regular cleaning of high-traffic areas presented a reduction in carpet replacement claims by 40%. Tenants who opted for mid-tenancy cleaning of these areas experienced higher chances of full deposit refunds.

Geographical & structural risks

A property's geographical location and structural characteristics affect cleaning problems during a tenancy.

Hard water areas

Areas with hard water are prone to limescale buildup on taps, showerheads, appliances, and tiles. The minerals in hard water cause difficult-to-remove white deposits that turn into unsightly stains and blocked pipes. London, South East England, and the Midlands are some UK areas dealing with hard water.

If left unaddressed, limescale causes permanent damage to fixtures, tiles, and appliances, and tenants will face deductions for repairs or cleaning. A mid-tenancy cleaning in hard water areas addresses appliance descaling, bathroom cleaning, and wiping down tiles and windows.

Humid & damp environments

Properties in areas with high humidity or poor ventilation have a high risk of mould growth and damp-related problems. Period buildings, especially in coastal regions and central London, are vulnerable to condensation. Mould and mildew growth are common in bathrooms, kitchens, and cellars if not regularly cleaned or correctly ventilated.

Coastal areas such as North West England and South West present higher humidity levels, aggravating mould and mildew. Poorly insulated properties have a higher risk of such problems. Mould and mildew can cause structural damage, and a mid-tenancy cleaning will address mould growth with proper ventilation, moisture control, and frequent cleaning of high-risk areas. Mould prevention, moisture-absorbing solutions, and wiping surfaces prone to condensation are crucial.

Period properties and listed buildings

Period properties (Victorian, Georgian, and Edwardian houses) and listed buildings present unique cleaning challenges because of their age and materials used. Timber frames of windows can rot or warp because of water damage, original plaster walls are damaged by abrasive cleaning, and wooden floors can warp from excess water.

Common in urban areas, especially in cities like Oxford or Edinburgh, period homes have traditional features that require specialist cleaning methods and products. A mid-tenancy cleaning uses delicate, non-abrasive cleaners and non-damaging methods for wood and plaster. Specialised cleaning solutions are used for specific materials (stone floors, polished wood) in period buildings.

Urban areas

Properties in city centres and high-traffic areas experience higher wear and tear. In shared housing, communal spaces are used more frequently, so grime and dirt build up faster. In cities like London, Manchester, or Sheffield, there is a higher rate of foot traffic, so more dirt gets into properties. Mid-tenancy cleaning in high-traffic areas prioritised floors, carpets, and shared spaces. Window cleaning and dusting are also crucial to eliminate grime from pollution.

Climate-related risks

Properties in coastal or mountainous areas present weather-related problems like salt damage from sea air, frost, or heavy rainfall. Salt from coastal winds can cause corrosion on fixtures, whereas moisture and low temperatures in mountain areas cause condensation and damage to walls and pipes (from freeze-thaw).

Properties in coastal regions present salt damage on window frames, metals, and fittings, whereas those in mountainous areas deal with problems from freezing and thawing. Mid-tenancy cleaning, seal maintenance, and weatherproofing can reduce salt and moisture-related damage. Seasonal inspections are also much needed.

Mid-tenancy cleaning in action: here’s how Buzz Maids handles it!

At Buzz Maids, we have a frequency-based schedule and customise the service to the client’s needs. Using professional-grade tools, we address common problematic areas.

Our operational insight

We tailor the frequency to tenants’ needs.

We offer a flexible, frequency-based cleaning schedule so that properties are regularly maintained:

• Bi-monthly clean—ideal for tenants in properties with high foot traffic, pets, or small spaces. It’s a light, regular cleaning targeting high-traffic zones like kitchens and bathrooms.
• Quarterly cleaning is a good choice for renters in homes with fewer renters or a low usage level. It covers all key areas but is less intense between sessions.
• Custom frequency—some renters choose bespoke cleaning intervals, especially if the homes have high moisture or are in high-pollution environments. This way, vulnerable areas are constantly maintained.

We aim to cover all key areas.

Our mid-tenancy cleaning package covers all the risky areas that collect grime, dirt, and damage. We go beyond the surface and focus on deeper maintenance problems that can be aggravated when not handled.

Here’s what our mid-tenancy cleaning covers:

• Kitchen
  • Deep cleaning of appliances (oven, fridge, microwave, dishwasher).
  • Degreasing hobs and extractor fans.
  • Cleaning and sanitising countertops and surfaces.
  • Disinfecting sinks and taps to prevent hard water buildup.
• Bathrooms
  • Full scrubbing and descaling of showers, sinks, and toilets.
  • Mould prevention and removal from walls, tiles, and grout.
  • Cleaning mirrors, taps, and faucets.
  • Wiping down window frames and handles
• Living areas & bedrooms:

• Dusting and wiping down all surfaces, including furniture, shelves, and light fixtures.
• Carpet and upholstery vacuuming and spot cleaning.
• Removing dust buildup from air vents and high-touch areas
• Floors & carpets:
  • Carpet cleaning or vacuuming in high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms
  • Wiping and sanitising hard floors
• Window & surface cleaning:
  • Regular wiping of windows, sills, and frames
  • Cleaning of baseboards, switches, and door handles

Our equipment is professional-grade

Buzz Maids cleaners use top-of-the-line equipment and eco-friendly products to leave surfaces immaculate.

• Professional-grade equipment
  • Industrial-grade HEPA filter vacuum cleaners for deep carpet cleaning and surface dusting.
  • Steam cleaners for effective mould removal and descaling in bathrooms and kitchens.
  • Eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaning products that are safe for all environments.
  • High-powered scrubbers for tough grime and limescale removal, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Innovative solutions for specific needs
  • UV sanitising tools to disinfect surfaces and kill bacteria in high-touch areas like door handles and light switches.
  • Dehumidifiers for properties in high-humidity areas to combat moisture buildup and prevent mould growth.

We provide guarantees.

Buzz Maids offers a satisfaction guarantee for all mid-tenancy cleaning services.

• Guaranteed results
  • If our cleaning isn’t satisfactory, you have 7 days to call us. We will come back for free fixes.
  • We have regular quality assurance checks by our supervisors to ensure that all staff adhere to high standards.
• Flexible and transparent pricing:
  • We don’t ask for a deposit up front and have no hidden costs. Our pricing is transparent, and you only pay for your needed service.
  • You get a customised quote, adjusted to your needs and requirements.

Performance data

Internal case studies

Case study 1: London apartments

In a study of 100 tenants renting apartments in central London, Buzz Maids compared tenants who received mid-tenancy cleaning services versus those who did not. Renters who opted for mid-tenancy cleaning experienced a 28% higher rate of full deposit return than those who did not invest in proactive cleaning.

Case study 2: Coastal properties in Southampton

Buzz Maids assessed 50 properties in coastal areas like Southampton, where hard water, humidity, and salt exposure are typical issues. Tenants who chose mid-tenancy cleanings experienced 45% fewer mould and limescale-related deductions than renters who didn’t opt for mid-tenancy cleans.

Tenant feedback on service effectiveness

Buzz Maids turned to customer satisfaction surveys from renters to get direct feedback from renters. Five hundred tenants from various property types (urban, rural, period properties and modern flats) gave feedback. 93% were satisfied with Buzz Maids’ mid-tenancy cleaning services, and 87% reported receiving their full deposits—those who didn’t only received 65% of their deposits.

90% of tenants said they would recommend Buzz Maids for the mid-tenancy cleaning package.

Sarah T., a tenant in Manchester, said: “The service changed my rental experience. I didn’t notice how much the carpets and kitchen appliances deteriorated, and mid-tenancy cleaning secured my deposit refund before moving out.”

“I’ve rented in several cities but haven’t opted for professional cleaning until now. I regret not hiring the pros sooner—they protect my investment!”

Service efficiency: cleaning time vs. results

The average time for intensive end-of-tenancy cleaning (without mid-tenancy cleaning) is 6–8 hours, while the average time for end-of-tenancy cleaning (with mid-tenancy cleaning)is 3–4 hours. This shows, once again, that regular cleaning decreases the workload at the end of the lease.

ROI of mid-tenancy cleaning

Buzz Maids' data also reveals the return on investment (ROI) for tenants opting for mid-tenancy cleaning. a mid-tenancy clean + light end-of-tenancy clean is on average£350, while a one-off end-of-tenancy intensive cleanis on average £550. Therefore, renters who hire us for mid-tenancy cleaning and light end-of-tenancy cleans save around £200 on the total cost of cleaning services.

Tenant retention and repeat business

Buzz Maids surveys revealed a strong correlation between tenant retention and satisfaction with mid-tenancy services. 35% of tenants who hired Buzz Maids for mid-tenancy cleaning services returned for future tenancy cleaning needs. Customers who choose regular cleaning during their lease often become long-term clients and hire Buzz Maids for mid- and end-of-tenancy cleaning services.

Be proactive—build a smart cleaning schedule.

We recommend you customise the cleaning schedule to your needs and the particularities of your property:

Families with children

The levels of wear and tear are high in homes with families with children. There are sticky surfaces, food spills, and extra mess in high-traffic areas, and bathrooms and kitchens get dirty quickly. Plan quarterly deep cleans to address kitchens, bathrooms, and common areas and focus on removing food stains, cleaning appliances, and managing limescale buildup.

Weekly, lightly clean high-use areas like the kitchen counters, high chairs, and bathroom sinks, and schedule the end-of-tenancy clean before the move-out date.

Pet owners

In homes with pets, tenants deal with hair, dirt, and dander accumulating on floors and furniture. Carpet and upholstery also present intense wear. Choose a bi-monthly cleaning to manage pet-related issues through vacuuming, upholstery cleaning, and grooming pet areas. Pay extra attention to hair buildup, especially on furniture and floors.

Avoid hair accumulation and vacuum regularly; frequently clean pet areas, including bedding and toys. At the end of the lease, a deep clean will be necessary to remove pet odours, hair, and dirt from carpets and upholstery.

Flat-sharers

In shared living spaces, bathrooms, kitchens, and common areas are typically neglected—renters have distinct cleaning routines. A monthly mid-tenancy clean is needed for shared spaces, especially kitchens, bathrooms, and common living areas. These areas require regular deep cleaning to manage grime and mess.

We recommend that tenants follow a rotating cleaning schedule for shared responsibilities, focusing on high-traffic areas like the bathroom and kitchen. To meet landlord standards and avoid deductions for communal messes, end-of-tenancy cleaning of shared spaces is much needed.

Young professionals or solo renters

Last-minute messes and skipped cleaning, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, happen because of busy schedules. Quarterly deep cleans focus on high-use areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and floors. Solo renters don’t need cleaning as frequently as other types of renters, but still have to maintain high standards to avoid deposit deductions. They should clean after cooking, avoid piling dishes, and keep bathrooms tidy to prevent buildup. They must hire the pros for end-of-tenancy cleaning to manage minor stains and grime deposits.

Students

The hectic schedules stop students from cleaning their rentals. Their living spaces are often more transient, and monthly cleanings will prevent issues with mould, grease, and grime, especially in shared spaces. Kitchens, bathrooms, and floors are prioritised, and students should focus on removing any food scraps immediately to prevent pest problems.

We recommend that students set a weekly cleaning day to address all shared areas, especially the kitchen and bathroom. To avoid deductions, end-of-tenancy cleaning is necessary.

A season-by-season breakdown of cleaning tasks

Spring

The focus should be on deep cleaning and allergen control.

Kitchens

Deep clean appliances, including the fridge, oven, and microwave. Check for expired products and clean out cabinets.

Bathrooms

Handle mould, mildew, and limescale buildup. Clean and disinfect high-touch areas.

Floors & carpets

Vacuum and deep clean carpets, grout between tiles and re-seal if necessary.

Windows & walls

Wash windows, wipe down walls and ceilings to remove dust or cobwebs.

Summer

Preventing heat-related damage and managing humidity are priorities with summer cleaning.

Kitchens

Deep clean after summer BBQS and parties, and clean your oven and stovetop to remove grease and food spills.

Bathrooms

Look for leaks, clean showerheads and faucets, and address any mould or mildew in damp areas.

Air vents & fans

To ensure proper air circulation and reduce allergens, clean air conditioning filters and fans.

Fall

In the fall, the top priorities are deep cleaning and moisture management.

Kitchens

Clean the oven, refrigerator, range hood, and exhaust vents.

Bathrooms

Address and prevent mould buildup in showers and bathtubs, especially in colder, damp weather.

Floors

Clean carpets and floors before winter sets in, and hire professional cleaners to refresh heavily used areas.

Windows & insulation

Ensure all windows are sealed correctly and the window tracks are clean. Prepare your home for the colder months.

Winter

During the cold winter, regular maintenance and cleanliness are the primary focus.

Kitchens

Avoid grease buildup, clean your kitchen counters and floors after cooking.

Bathrooms

Examine and clean your bathroom ventilation systems, ensure the pipes aren’t freezing, and manage condensation levels.

Floors & carpets

To minimise dirt and snow entering the house, use doormats. Regularly vacuum and clean to avoid salt stains from snowy shoes. Use a dehumidifier to prevent moisture buildup and mould growth in colder months.

Cleaning tasks—DIY vs. professionals

DIY tasks

• Kitchens: Clean countertops, sinks, stovetops, wipe appliances, and regularly empty trash and clean bins.
• Bathrooms: Scrub sinks, toilets, tubs, and mirrors, and disinfect faucets and high-touch areas.
• Floors & Carpets: Vacuum regularly, spot-clean stains, and mop floors.
• Windows: Clean windows and sills, and wash mirrors and tracks.
• General Upkeep: Dust surfaces, change air filters, and clean light switches.

Professional Tasks:

• Deep Carpet/Upholstery Cleaning: For difficult stains or embedded dirt.
• Oven & Appliance Cleaning: For heavy grease and grime buildup.
• End-of-Tenancy Cleaning: Professionals leave all surfaces immaculate, increasing the chances of full deposit refunds.
• Mould/Limescale Removal: cleaners employ specialised methods and products to address extensive mould or limescale.
• High/Hard-to-Reach Windows: professionals use ladders or specialised equipment.

Quick Checklist:

Task	DIY	Pro
Clean countertops & sinks	✓
Vacuum and spot clean carpets.	✓
Deep clean oven & appliances		✓
Scrub toilets and bathtubs	✓
Carpet cleaning		✓
End-of-tenancy clean		✓

End note

Mid-tenancy cleaning is a field-proven, data-backed strategy to lower end-of-tenancy spending. When you handle cleanliness throughout your lease, you avoid expensive problems like grime, mould, and stains and enjoy a seamless, peaceful move-out process. Be proactive and book your first clean with Buzz Maids—see how mid-tenancy cleaning will protect your rental, time, and hard-earned deposit.

RESOURCES

• https://www.buzzmaids.co.uk/blog/end-of-tenancy-cleaning-roi-data-driven-analysis-of-costs-vs-deposit-returns/
  
• https://www.standard.co.uk/homesandproperty/property-news/playing-dirty-tenants-have-an-average-of-ps250-deducted-from-deposits-b1166038.html
  
• https://www.landlordtoday.co.uk/breaking-news/2024/06/tenants-failing-to-clean-is-biggest-cause-of-deposit-losses/
  
• https://www.propertyreporter.co.uk/majority-of-uk-renters-hit-with-cleaning-related-deposit-deductions.html
  
• https://www.property118.com/renters-lose-millions-in-cleaning-deposit-deductions/
  
• https://remoracleaning.com/the-importance-of-mid-tenancy-cleaning/
  
• https://landlordknowledge.co.uk/renters-lose-over-700-million-in-deposits-due-to-cleaning-deductions/