Standard End of Tenancy Cleaning Misconceptions Debunked

End-of-tenancy cleaning is crucial for securing your deposit in the UK, with more than 40% of deposit disputes being related to cleanliness. However, this fact seems to mean little to many tenants who fall for myths—such as believing that regular cleaning is sufficient or that DIY methods save money—thereby jeopardising their deposits. We've asked around and spotted the most common misconceptions about end-of-tenancy cleaning. Of course, we'll explain why these are indeed misconceptions. So, farewell to unnecessary stress and hello to an immaculate, deposit-friendly handover!

Misconception #1: "Regular Cleaning is sufficient"

Regular cleaning differs from professional end-of-tenancy cleaning on many levels:

The main features

Regular cleaning

• It’s about basic, routine tasks such as wiping down surfaces, vacuuming floors, dusting furniture, and emptying bins.
• It’s usually done regularly to keep a place presentable without addressing deep grime or unseen dirt.
• It focuses on visible areas and excludes unseen areas, such as behind appliances or inside cabinets.

Professional end-of-tenancy cleaning

• It’s a deep clean that brings a place to its best version
• It covers all nooks and crannies of a place, such as baseboards, light fixtures, skirting boards, and window tracks
• Professionals also handle tasks like deep carpet cleaning, grout scrubbing, appliance sanitising, and window washing.
• Steam cleaners, industrial vacuums, and other specialised tools are used.
• The cleaning results meet landlords’ standards and comply with lease agreements.

The techniques, the tools, and the results

The techniques

Regular Cleaning focuses on surface-level cleaning and includes basic techniques such as wiping, vacuuming, and dusting. It doesn’t address deeply set dirt and challenging stains.

End-of-tenancy cleaning involves deep cleaning techniques, such as scrubbing, soaking, and steaming, to break down difficult grime. Detailed tasks, such as deodorising, removing limescale, or sanitising areas, are also part of end-of-tenancy cleaning. For example, steam cleaning is used for deep cleaning carpets and upholstery, as it eliminates embedded dirt and stains without the use of harsh chemicals.

The tools

Regular cleaning

• Utilizes essential tools, including household vacuums, mops, and general-purpose cloths. They are suitable for routine upkeep but cannot effectively handle stubborn stains and deeply ingrained dirt.

End-of-tenancy cleaning

• Utilizes advanced tools, including industrial steam cleaners, high-power vacuums, scrubbers, and pressure washers. They are made for high-efficiency cleaning and ensure deep cleaning.

Results

Regular Cleaning

• It’s efficient for day-to-day upkeep and maintains the seen areas presentable but misses hidden dirt (inside drawers, under appliances, or behind heavy furniture).

End-of-tenancy cleaning

• Leads to an immaculate property that meets landlords’ standards. It leaves the property ready for the next occupant and helps tenants comply with move-out requirements.

Landlords have high expectations.

Another reason why regular cleaning isn't sufficient before moving out is that landlords have high expectations for cleanliness. Here's how they identify issues:

• Attention to detail

Landlords are sticklers for detail (and so are our professionals at Buzz Maids 😊), noticing even the most minor cleanliness issues, such as dust in appliances. Regular cleaning often misses these spots, but professional cleaners focus on such hidden areas, ensuring they are impeccably clean.

• Inventory reports

When a tenant moves in, the landlord creates an inventory report detailing the property's condition and cleanliness. This serves as a reference during the final inspection when the landlord compares the property's current condition to its state at the time of move-in.

• Set expectations

The landlord expects you to return the property in the same condition in which it was rented. While regular cleaning maintains the property well, it typically won't meet the high standards expected at move-out. Professional cleaning ensures the place meets the landlord's exacting standards.

• Detect inconsistency

DIY cleaning often results in streaks, missed spots or unevenly cleaned areas. Landlords will notice such inconsistencies, which don't occur with professional cleaning. Our professionals achieve a uniform, thorough finish every time.

Misconception #2: "DIY Cleaning Saves Money"

The only way to debunk this misconception is to present the costs of DIY cleaning in comparison to the costs of professional cleaning.

DIY cleaning costs vs. professional services costs

DIY cleaning costs

• Supplies: Basic cleaning products (such as cleaners and vacuums) can cost £20–£50.
• Timeinvestment—it can take 8-48 hours to clean the property, depending on its size and condition.

Hidden costs of DIY cleaning:

• A subpar cleaning may result in deposit deductions or penalties from the landlord for additional cleaning.
• You may have to hire cleaners to address missed areas

Professional cleaning costs

• Service fees: End-of-tenancy cleaning typically costs £170–£300, based on property size and extra services.
• Efficiency: Professionals can complete a job in just a few hours, and their results consistently meet landlords’ standards.

Poor cleaning causes deposit deductions.

If you think you’ll save a dime by going the DIY route, consider this too:

• Improper cleaning may result in higher deposit deductions than the cost of professional cleaning.
• If the property isn’t immaculate, landlords may charge for additional cleaning.
• Grease buildup, limescale, and other similar issues require specialised cleaning services.
• Additional charges for specific areas are often higher than the cost of hiring professional cleaners.
• If your DIY cleaning doesn’t meet the landlords’ inventory reports, you risk deposit deductions.
• DIY cleaning may seem cheaper, but missing spots can result in costly charges.  

DIY cleaning takes more time than professional cleaning

DIY cleaning can take anywhere from 8 to 48 hours, depending on the property’s size and condition. You will need time to move furniture, deep clean the appliances and handle challenging areas like carpets and grout.

Professional cleaning—takes half the time. The professionals are experienced and skilled, using specialised tools and effective methods. They work quickly and efficiently.

When you hire the pros, you'll save hours or even days, allowing you to focus on something else. With the professionals cleaning the place, you can relax and experience a stress-free handover.

Misconception #3: "Professional Cleaning is Legally Required"

According to the Tenant Fees Act 2019, landlords are not permitted to require tenants to hire professional cleaners. However, they can expect the property to be returned in the same pristine condition as it was at the start of the tenancy. Whether tenants choose to clean themselves or hire professionals, the property must be left immaculate.

Most tenancy agreements include cleanliness standards but cannot compel tenants to hire professional cleaners. Landlords may specify their expectations and indicate that failure to meet these standards will result in deductions from the deposit. In the event of disputes, inventory reports serve as an invaluable tool. They document the property's condition at the start of the tenancy and provide a reference for the final inspection. Landlords can use these reports to compare the property's condition and justify deposit deductions when cleanliness falls short of the agreed standards.

Misconception #4: "All Professional Cleaners Meet Landlord Standards"

As with anything else in life, not all professional cleaning companies offer the same level of results. While many, such as Buzz Maids, meet landlords' high standards, others fall short, leaving tenants vulnerable to deposit deductions. The company's experience, toolkit and staff training make all the difference. This is why it's crucial to choose wisely when selecting a cleaning company.

The guarantees

When exploring options, the guarantees that a cleaning company offers should be the first aspect to examine. A dependable company will offer a re-clean guarantee, typically within 48 to 72 hours after the job is completed. Buzz Maids, for instance, offers a 7-day satisfaction guarantee and will return for a free re-clean if the results aren't satisfactory.

The questions to ask

When hiring a cleaning company, take time to get your questions answered. Some of the most important questions would be:

• What is your experience with end-of-tenancy cleaning?
• Can you provide customer reviews or testimonials?
• What tools and equipment do you use?
• Are your cleaning products eco-friendly and suitable for sensitive areas, such as carpets and upholstery?
• Do you offer a re-clean guarantee if the landlord is unsatisfied?

Misconception #5: "Last-Minute Cleaning is Fine"

If you think this is true, think again. This is how long it takes to clean a property before final inspection:

• Studio Flats--can take 4-6 hours
• 1-Bedroom Flats--typically require 5-7 hours
• 2-Bedroom Properties—do you have 6-10 hours to clean such property?
• 3-Bedroom Properties—it will take you at least one day, or approximately 10-14 hours, to clean such a property thoroughly without missing any hidden areas.
• 4+ Bedroom Properties—unless you call all your friends for help, you will spend 12-20 hours cleaning such a large property.

Apart from size, the condition of the property also affects the duration of the cleaning. Of course, the dirtier the place, the longer it takes to bring it to a move-in ready condition.

Why not go with last-minute cleaning?

Last-minute cleaning often yields rushed work that overlooks numerous areas. For instance, the extractor fan might be skipped, and it's one of the things that landlords carefully examine. Grout lines, skirting boards, window tracks and deep cleaning tasks (such as ovens or appliances) can easily be missed when cleaning in a hurry. Landlords thoroughly assess each of these areas and may incur penalties. Hiring professionals like Buzz Maids is a walk in the park—why wait until the last minute?

Check out some planning tips.

Avoid last-minute cleaning and keep our tips in mind:

• Start early—avoid rushing by starting to clean at least a week before your move-out day.
• Declutter—remove your belongings to ease out your cleaning process.
• Break tasks into segments—ease your cleaning by splitting it into easy-to-handle tasks (e.g., do one room per day).
• Start with the problem areas — kitchens, bathrooms, and carpets are the most challenging, so begin with them.
• Check the inventory report—always review the inventory report to address all areas that your landlord will inspect.
• Schedule a final inspection—you can book a re-check with the cleaning service or ask a friend to inspect your property as well.

Misconception #6: "Small Areas Don't Need Deep Cleaning"

Unfortunately, the small areas are the ones that landlords scrutinise in the final inspection. They will thoroughly examine:

• Extractor fans—they collect grease, dust, and grime, and many people skip them when cleaning
• Skirting boards—they are easy to miss but do collect impressive amounts of dirt and dust, especially in high-traffic areas.
• Window tracks—landlords check them as they tend to accumulate dirt and debris over time.
• Grout lines—they harbour mildew, stains, and dirt, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.

The difference is in the details!

Landlords will closely assess even the most minor details, and missing areas will result in deposit deductions. Skipped areas during end-of-tenancy cleaning can result in a deposit deduction—the scenario that all tenants aim to avoid.

Misconception #7: "Professional Cleaning Takes Too Long"

Well, this couldn’t be much further from the truth. If anything, professional cleaning is quite the opposite, taking half the time of DIY cleaning.

• Studio flats: Typically take 2-3 hours for cleaning, as they are small and less cluttered.
• 1-Bedroom Flats: they require 3-4 hours as they’re a bit larger and include additional cleaning tasks.
• 2-Bedroom properties: typically need 4-6 hours for deep cleaning
• 3-bedroom properties: can take 6-8 hours as they have several extra bedrooms, bathrooms, and common areas.
• 4+ Bedroom Properties: may require 8-10 hours or more, based on the property’s size and condition.

Please note that the property’s condition, size, furnishings, and the level of cleaning required will all impact the duration of the cleaning process. Naturally, a larger and more heavily soiled property will take longer time than a smaller, well-kept property.

Why do professionals clean faster?

Several factors explain the superior efficiency of professional cleaners:

• Larger teams—cleaning companies use several cleaners to manage various areas simultaneously, which reduces the duration of the cleaning.
• Specialized equipment—professionals use specialised equipment like steam cleaners, industrial vacuums, and high-power scrubbers that speed up the cleaning and efficiently manage stubborn stains.
• Efficiency — professional tools and equipment are designed to ensure faster and more effective cleaning, surpassing standard store-bought tools.
• Faster results—professionals don’t waste time thinking about which method works best—they are knowledgeable, skilled, and experienced, completing a job with fewer breaks.

Want to reduce the cleaning time even more? Follow these tips!

• Declutter early—remove your belongings to help cleaners work more efficiently and quickly.
• Pre-clean high-traffic areas—minimise the overall cleaning load by wiping down surfaces like countertops, tables, and floors.
• Organize spaces—make sure that the rooms are tidy with no unnecessary items
• Clear pathways—keep hallways and entryways clear for easy access for cleaners.
• Tidy outside areas—where applicable, clear balconies, gardens, or patios for a deep clean.

End-of-Tenancy Cleaning Myths Busted!

Don't let cleaning myths cost you your deposit! Regular cleaning won't suffice, and last-minute DIY efforts may cause you to overlook crucial areas. If you weren't aware, landlords have a keen eye for detail and will mainly check hidden, less visible areas that you might miss—such as skirting boards and extractor fans. Planning has never been more critical, and if you opt for the DIY route, you should prioritise these often-overlooked areas. Are you thinking of hiring professionals? Choose your cleaning company wisely—they're not all the same! Either way, ensuring an immaculate property before moving out means less stress and a full deposit returned. By hiring professionals, you can enjoy peace of mind and save your time and energy for other tasks, such as furnishing your new home!

FAQs

Are landlords allowed to request professional cleaning after the Tenant Fees Act?

No, under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, landlords are not permitted to require tenants to hire professional cleaning services. However, they can request that the property be returned in the same condition as it was at the start of the tenancy.

What guarantees should I look for when choosing a cleaning company?

Look for companies that offer re-clean guarantees—Buzz Maids, for example, provides a 7-day satisfaction guarantee. Many companies offer 48-72 hour re-clean guarantees, meaning that if the results aren't satisfactory, the professionals will return to clean again free of charge. It's also advisable to check reviews, experience and the type of equipment the professionals use.

What are the rates for professional end-of-tenancy cleaning in the UK?

In the UK, end-of-tenancy cleaning rates typically range from £170 to £300, depending on the property size and condition. For example, a one-bedroom flat might cost around £170. Prices vary among companies and may increase with the addition of extra services.

Can I book last-minute services?

Yes, last-minute cleaning services are available—we take pride in our flexibility! However, we cannot guarantee your preferred time slot will be available, particularly during peak seasons.

Are there regional challenges (such as hard water or mould) that require special attention?

Yes, certain regions in the UK, particularly those with hard water, may experience cleaning issues such as limescale build-up on taps and showerheads. Areas with high humidity might develop mould or mildew, especially in bathrooms. Our professionals use specialised tools and products to address these issues, ensuring surfaces are left spotless.

RESOURCES

• https://cleaning-hacks.sharkclean.co.uk/how-to-avoid-a-cleaning-dispute-at-the-end-of-a-tenancy/
• https://www.standard.co.uk/homesandproperty/property-news/playing-dirty-tenants-have-an-average-of-ps250-deducted-from-deposits-b1166038.html
• https://bmmagazine.co.uk/business/diy-vs-professional-end-of-tenancy-cleaning-pros-and-cons/
• https://www.propertyreporter.co.uk/majority-of-uk-renters-hit-with-cleaning-related-deposit-deductions.html
• https://www.landlordtoday.co.uk/breaking-news/2024/06/tenants-failing-to-clean-is-biggest-cause-of-deposit-losses/