Inspections can be stressful, whether you’re a tenant looking to get your deposit, a landlord eager to quickly welcome new occupants, or a homeowner staging for a sale. Why? Because of the overlooked cleaning tasks, last-minute touch-ups, or disputes, time and money are consumed. You can avoid it all with our interactive quiz—it will help you spot hidden cleaning problems before your inspector does. Our quiz will put your mind at ease by helping you spot issues, fix them right away, and walk into your inspection confident that it will all be fine. Ready to start?
Key takeaways
- Inspections are vital for all parties involved – Property inspections affect financial outcomes and timelines for tenants, landlords, and homeowners.
- Some areas are constantly the reason for failing inspections. UK inspectors especially scrutinize ovens, bathroom limescale, dusty skirting boards, clogged extractor fans, and streaky windows.
- Regional standards vary significantly across the UK. London inspectors thoroughly check out kitchens and bathrooms, and Northern cities focus on hidden areas like under appliances. At the same time, coastal regions prioritize odor control and outdoor spaces.
- Documentation is also necessary - The quiz reminds customers that proper documentation helps them pass inspections.
- DIY cleaning often misses critical areas - The quiz highlights the importance of cleaning "commonly missed spots" like behind appliances, inside vents, skirting boards, and light fixtures, typically skipped with DIY cleaning.
- Professional cleaning offers a significant return on investment - success stories show that professional cleaning services secure full deposit returns and positive inspector feedback,
- Pre-inspection assessment is valuable regardless of who performs the cleaning - A thorough pre-inspection assessment (via the quiz or checklist) lowers the risk of unexpected problems during the actual inspection.
Who should take our quiz?
Are you a tenant preparing to vacate? Your move-out inspection is vital for securing your deposit, and even a minor issue like a grimey oven or dusty skirting boards could cost you deposit deductions. Our quiz lets tenants easily detect the most common skipped problems and secure deposits. Renters should know what’s expected before the inspection, and not after.
As landlords, first impressions matter, and meeting professional cleanliness standards improves reputation among renters. Any responsible lander must ensure their property is immaculate, welcoming, and inspection-ready before handing the keys to the new renters.
Homeowners preparing for viewings or valuations comprehend the value of spotless, well-kept properties. They can impress possible buyers and seal the deal in no time. A pristine home sells better and faster, too.
What do you get from our quiz?
Our quiz isn’t another checklist, but an innovative, streamlined tool that clarifies and guides your final fixes. Your score will show how prepared your property is for the inspection, helping you quickly see if you’re on track or have to remediate some things. You will get recommendations on managing the areas requiring extra attention based on your answers.
It will only take a few minutes to see where you stand with your inspection and steer away from surprises and panic.
Why trust Buzz Maids?
Buzz Maids has a diverse expertise in end-of-tenancy cleaning that helps tenants pass their final inspections, secure their deposits, and helps landlords impress their prospective renters. Our experience is rich, and we have hundreds of satisfied customers across the UK—we know what landlords and property inspectors look for in the final inspections.
Proven track record
Over the years, we have helped hundreds of tenants, landlords, and homeowners experience a stress-free experience.
Attention to detail
Our teams clean all nooks and crannies of a place to leave properties pristine.
UK property expertise
We comprehend regional inspection standards and tailor our cleaning procedures accordingly.
The interactive property readiness quiz
Go through each section and score yourself. The final result will show how inspection-ready your property is or isn’t. Give yourself 1 point for every “Yes” answer and make your score at the end of every section and overall. It will take you 15 minutes or less.
Kitchen cleanliness (Total: ___ / 6)
- Are the oven and hob spotless, grease-free, and odourless?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Is the fridge clean inside and out, with no old food or spills?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Have cupboards, drawers, and shelves been wiped inside and out?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Are the sink and tap free from limescale, stains, and watermarks?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Are worktops sanitised, clutter-free, and stain-free?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Is the floor swept, mopped, and free of crumbs and grease?
☐ Yes ☐ No
Bathroom hygiene (Total: ___ / 6)
- Are toilets, sinks, and bathtubs/showers thoroughly cleaned and sanitised?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Is there no visible mould on tiles, grout, or ceilings?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Have all taps, shower heads, and fittings been descaled and polished?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Are mirrors and glass surfaces streak-free and shiny?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Is the bathroom floor clean and hair-free?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Are bathroom bins emptied and cleaned?
☐ Yes ☐ No
Living areas & bedrooms (Total: ___ / 6)
- Are all floors vacuumed or mopped, including under sofas and beds?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Are skirting boards, window sills, and light switches dust-free?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Are windows, mirrors, and blinds clean and streak-free?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Are furniture surfaces wiped and free of fingerprints or dust?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Is clutter cleared from floors, shelves, and surfaces?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Are bed linens and curtains clean and fresh (or replaced if needed)?
☐ Yes ☐ No
Commonly missed spots (Total: ___ / 6)
- Have extractor fans and vents been cleaned and dusted?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Is the area behind/under large appliances (e.g., fridge, washing machine) clean?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Have light fixtures and ceiling corners been checked for cobwebs?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Are bins emptied, scrubbed, and odour-free in every room?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Is the entrance area/hallway tidy, swept, and welcoming?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Are internal doors and handles clean and fingerprint-free?
☐ Yes ☐ No
Documentation & admin (Total: ___ / 6)
- Do you have receipts or invoices for any professional cleaning services used?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Has your inventory checklist been reviewed and updated?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Have you taken dated photos of the property’s condition for evidence?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Have you reviewed any agent or landlord cleaning requirements?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Are keys, manuals, and remotes labelled and accounted for?
☐ Yes ☐ No - Have you double-checked for forgotten items in drawers, closets, or lofts?
☐ Yes ☐ No
Final score: ___ / 30
Your results:
- 26–30: Inspection-Ready
Well done! Your property is immaculate, tidy, and ready to pass the final inspection easily.
- 19–25: Almost There
You’re almost done with the cleaning—you need to do some touch-ups to stay safe.
- 0–18: Needs Attention
Make time to turn back to cleaning—maybe hire professional cleaners this time to avoid deposit deductions or delays.
A closer look at the results
High score—inspection-ready
Scoring high means you’ve handled all the big and small issues that typically attract inspectors’ attention. Your property looks, smells, and feels immaculate, which impresses even the most astute landlords, agents, or possible buyers.
You only need to revise the final touch tips, such as fluffing the cushions or polishing the taps. Take timestamped photos and keep receipts and inventory docs handy for your peace of mind. Rest assured that your final inspection will be a walk in the park!
Medium score—almost there
You are close and must go back and insist on a few things. Some key areas don’t meet professional standards and may cause issues during inspections. Inside appliances, limescale in the bathroom, or dusty skirting boards are some of the most common problems during inspections.
Check out the flagged sections and focus on the areas you missed in the quiz. Based on our recommendations, address them efficiently. If you no longer have time or energy, consider hiring professional cleaners. Even if you spend more time and energy now, you will have better chances at securing your deposit.
Low score—needs attention.
Don’t be discouraged by the low score—you probably missed high-priority areas such as limescale in the bathroom, built-up grime in the kitchen, missed spots like vents, skirting boards, and under furniture. Most people fail inspections and lose deposits because of such issues.
Go over the flagged sections and begin with the most significant problems. Stay organized and use our Ultimate Cleaning Checklist for the best outcome. Want to make sure you score 30 out of 30? Hire professional cleaners—they will make the place impeccably clean!
- Around 17% of UK households utilize professional cleaning services.
- Approximately 63% of UK renters have experienced deposit deductions due to cleaning-related issues.
Next steps and exclusive offers
Book a professional clean
Done with the quiz but discovered some minor issues? Don’t hesitate to call in the professionals. Buzz Maids provides expert-grade end-of-tenancy, pre-tenancy, and deep cleaning services that meet UK inspection standards. Our teams are ready to pitch in, whether you need a quick refresh or a complete top-to-bottom clean.
Why book with us?
- Our cleaners are professionally trained and vetted
- We use landlord- and estate-agent-approved checklists
- We have flexible slots for move-ins/move-outs and same-day service
- We provide an exclusive discount for quiz-takers—tell us your score!
While we do all the cleaning, you can focus on something else—preparing for the handover, receiving your new occupants, and advertising your property for sale.
Download our Ultimate Cleaning Checklist
Tenants, landlords, and homeowners can use our Ultimate Cleaning Checklist, conceived for UK inspections.
KITCHEN
- Oven, hob, and extractor fan deep cleaned
- Fridge/freezer emptied, defrosted & cleaned
- Microwave, kettle, and toaster wiped inside and out
- Cupboards and drawers cleaned inside and out
- Sink and taps descaled and sanitized
- Worktops wiped, sanitised, and stain-free
- Splashbacks and tiles cleaned
- Floors swept and mopped
- Bins emptied, cleaned, and deodorized
- Behind/under appliances cleaned
- Washing machine drawer and seal cleaned
- Dishwasher filter and door cleaned
BATHROOM(S)
- Toilet scrubbed and sanitised inside and out
- Sink, taps, and plugholes descaled
- Bath/shower cleaned, mould and limescale removed
- Shower screen/glass and tiles polished
- Mirrors wiped streak-free
- Floors cleaned (including around toilet base)
- Extractor fan dusted
- All toiletries and personal items removed
- Cabinets and drawers wiped inside and out
- Bins emptied and cleaned
LIVING ROOM / COMMON AREAS
- Floors vacuumed or mopped, including under furniture
- Skirting boards dusted and wiped
- Window sills, ledges, and frames cleaned
- Windows cleaned inside (and outside if agreed)
- Blinds and/or curtains cleaned or dusted
- Furniture wiped or polished
- Light switches and sockets cleaned
- Cobwebs removed from ceilings and corners
- Light fittings and lampshades dusted
- Radiators wiped down
BEDROOMS
- Carpets vacuumed (or steam-cleaned if stained)
- Wardrobes and drawers cleaned inside and out
- Mirrors and glass wiped
- Bed frame wiped down (mattress vacuumed if provided)
- Curtains/blinds dusted or washed
- Light fixtures and plugs cleaned
- Skirting boards and doors wiped
- Windows cleaned inside
- Personal belongings removed
COMMONLY MISSED SPOTS
- Behind/under large appliances and furniture
- The tops of doors, picture frames, and curtain rails were dusted
- Extractor fans and vents cleaned
- Bins throughout the property are emptied and cleaned
- Inside lofts or storage spaces, cleared and wiped
- Patio, garden, or balcony swept and tidy (if applicable)
ADMIN & FINAL TOUCHES
- Final meter readings taken (gas, electric, water)
- Inventory checklist reviewed and updated
- Keys, manuals, and remotes left in the agreed-upon place
- Dated photos taken of each room
- All rubbish removed from the property
- Professional cleaning receipt saved (if applicable)
Extra tip
Ask a friend or a family member to complete a walk-through—they will immediately notice issues!
Schedule a pre-inspection consultation.
If our quiz doesn’t give you peace of mind about the inspection, you can book a pre-inspection consultation with a Buzz Maids expert and alleviate your stress. Whether you’re a tenant focused on securing their deposits, a landlord preparing to welcome their new occupants, or a homeowner staging their property for viewings, our consultation will ensure:
- A room-by-room virtual walkthrough or in-person visit
- Bespoke recommendations according to your property’s condition and inspection standards
- Identification of typically skipped cleaning or repair problems
- A complete action plan to help you pass the inspection
UK-specific tips & insights to pass your inspection
Top 5 areas UK inspectors scrutinize
Missing the following areas will make you lose parts, if not all, of your deposit or delay welcoming new renters.
Ovens
Presenting less-than-spotless ovens is a top reason people fail their inspection. Inspectors will notice grease buildup behind knobs and panels, burnt-on food in trays and grills, and difficult stains inside oven doors. You should use a heavy-duty degreaser and oven liner to avoid such issues.
Limescale in bathrooms
Limescale and mould typically collect on taps, showerheads, and tiles. Inspectors expect sparkling chrome fixtures, clean grout with no visible buildup, and a fresh, sanitized appearance. A few days before the inspection, you can use some vinegar-based products or limescale removers.
Skirting boards
Many people forget about cleaning skirting boards. Easy to check out with a finger swipe, dusty skirting boards can make any clean room seem imperfect. Use a damp cloth and some mild detergent to wipe down skirting boards.
Extractor fans
It doesn’t take long in bathrooms and kitchens until fans clog up and collect grime. Dirty fans get inspections’ attention and affect indoor air quality. Remove covers and vacuum/wipe them with a dry cloth for spotless fans.
Windows
Sparkly, gleaming windows brighten a space, whereas smears and spots will make it look untidy and unwelcoming. Mould and cobwebs from frames still need to disappear, and the inside glass must remain immaculate. Remember to clean the corners and edges. For a streak-free finish, use a squeegee.
Buzz Maids’ tips for spotless surfaces
With years of experience in cleaning, the professionals at Buzz Maids know how to tackle any stubborn stain, any impossible-to-remove limescale, or lingering baked-on oven grime. Keep their tips in mind next time you’re cleaning:
Difficult stains in the kitchen and appliances
- Oven and hob: apply a paste of soda and white vinegar. After allowing it to work for 30 minutes, scrub and wipe clean.
- Worktops—use a non-abrasive cleaner and remove the water rings with a dab of toothpaste on a soft cloth.
- Fridge shelves and seals—remove them and place them in warm, soapy water. Using a toothbrush, thoroughly clean all seals and crevices.
Removing and preventing limescale
- Taps and showerheads—soak in vinegar overnight or wrap them with vinegar-soaked cloths. Using an old toothbrush, scrub them gently.
- Toilets &tiles—apply a limescale gel cleaner and scrub it away after allowing it to sit for a while. Clean the flush button and hinges too.
- Maintenance tip—spray vinegar weekly on problem areas to avoid limescale buildup.
Pay attention to the details.
- For streak-free windows, mirrors, and shower screens, use a vinegar-water mix and a microfiber cloth.
- Wipe skirting boards, door frames, and switches—a simple finger swipe will help inspectors decide whether they’re clean enough.
- To eliminate hidden odours, air out the property, use a pleasant air freshener, and empty bins—the place will have a fresh feel!
Extra tip!
Try to complete the cleaning a day before the inspection. This way, you will have time for some last-minute fixes for a spotless property!
- Around 5% of dwellings in England reported damp problems in 2023, marking the highest rate in five years.
- Approximately 60% of UK households are supplied with hard water, leading to limescale buildup.
Real success stories
“Full deposit back—completely happy with the results!”—Emma, tenant in Manchester
“I took the quiz and booked Buzz Maids for a deep clean before vacating my rental. The results impressed my letting agent—an astute person, if you ask me. Shortly enough, I got my whole deposit back!”
“The inventory clerk praised the cleaners’ results”—Lence, landlord in Sheffield.
“Buzz Maids came to rescue the day and prepared the tenancy for the new renters. They covered all inspection hot spots, and the property looked impeccable. I hadn’t experienced any delays, and renters have moved as planned.”
“hit the jackpot after a spotless staging”
“I was staging my place for viewings and was worried about first impressions. Buzz Maids went above and beyond, leaving the whole property immaculate, especially the kitchen and bathroom. The real estate agent was blown away by how the property looked and felt”.
Regional know-how
Local expertise can make the difference:
London & Greater London
Letting agents are detail-oriented, especially when scrutinizing kitchens and bathrooms. They will thoroughly examine: oven cleanliness, grout mould, and window interiors. Professional cleaners prioritize these areas to help clients meet the city’s high standards.
Surrey, Kent & Home counties
Presentation and smell are the main priorities in these areas. Inspectors expect to find spotless skirting boards and switches, fresh-smelling carpets, and a clean scent throughout the property. The cleaning teams will also perform deodorizing and floor care to make properties look and feel fresh.
Northern cities (Manchester, Sheffield, Salford)
Even though inventory clerks in these areas work quickly, they don’t make any compromises when examining cleanliness. They will spend extra time inspecting under appliances, inside cupboards, and bathrooms (look for limescale). To ensure a seamless, stress-free inspection, our cleaners will target such high-risk, “missed spots”.
Coastal & holiday let regions (Southampton, Portsmouth, Brighton)
Holiday lets and short-term rentals go through meticulous inspections, and inspectors pay attention to: smells (especially damp), clean linen and furnishings, and external areas like patios and balconies. Our professionals can come whenever necessary for seasonal deep cleans and outdoor area touch-ups.
Ready for your quiz?
Inspection success always begins with thoughtful preparation, no matter your role in the rental experience. Our interactive quiz will show you what you’ve missed, and our tips will help you fix it quickly. Still need help? Contact Buzz Maids for a personalized consultation, a printable checklist, or, best of all, a professional clean.
About Buzz Maids
Buzz Maids is a reliable partner for seamless, hassle-free move-outs, property viewings, and inspection-ready results. We are experts in meticulous, inspection-focused cleans that meet professional standards of astute letting agents, estate agents, and inventory clerks.
Areas we cover:
Southern England
- Oxfordshire - Oxford, Banbury, Bicester, Witney, Abingdon, and surrounding areas
- Berkshire - Reading, Slough, Bracknell, Windsor, Maidenhead, and surrounding areas
- Buckinghamshire - Milton Keynes, High Wycombe, Aylesbury, Amersham, and surrounding areas
- Hampshire - Southampton, Portsmouth, Winchester, Basingstoke, and surrounding areas
- Hertfordshire - Watford, St. Albans, Hemel Hempstead, Stevenage, and surrounding areas
- Surrey - Guildford, Woking, Reigate, Epsom, and surrounding areas
- Kent - Maidstone, Canterbury, Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, and surrounding areas
London
- Full coverage across all London boroughs and the Greater London area
Northern Coverage
- South Yorkshire - Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster, Barnsley, and surrounding areas
- Greater Manchester - Manchester, Salford, Bolton, Stockport, and surrounding areas
Our promise
We stand behind our workers’ performance and provide a 100% satisfaction guarantee and a 7-day re-clean promise. We will return for free fixes if you’re unhappy with the results.
RESOURCES
- https://home-safe.org.uk/pcc-selective-licensing-understanding-the-inspection-programme
- https://www.newham.gov.uk/downloads/file/849/propertyinspectionchecklist
- https://england.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice/tenancy_deposits/how_to_get_your_deposit_back/check_out_inspections
- https://theindependentlandlord.com/rental-property-inspections
- https://mdfskirtingworld.co.uk/blog/uk-home-property-inspection-checklist
- https://www.westportproperty.co.uk/blog/essential-items-to-include-in-your-landlord-inspection-checklist/