According to recent UK rental statistics, over 56% of deposit disputes arise from disagreements about cleanliness at move-out. To avoid any deposit dues disputes, tenants should understand their obligations under the end of tenancy cleaning laws UK.
UK law no longer allows landlords to require professional cleaning services thanks to the Tenant Fees Act 2019. However, tenants are still responsible for returning the property in the move-in condition, excluding fair wear and tear.
This article outlines UK government rules. It clarifies tenant and landlord obligations. You’ll also find practical guidance on what must be cleaned to avoid disputes and protect your deposit.
What is the End of Tenancy Cleaning?
End of tenancy cleaning is carried out when a tenant moves out of a rented property. With this, landlords ensure that the home is returned in a clean condition.
At the end of tenancy, the most common reasons landlords make claims against tenants are cleaning related. With these statistics from the popular states of the UK, you will get a better idea.
|
Reason of Dispute |
England & Wales |
Northern Ireland |
Scotland |
|
Cleaning Claims |
50% |
47% |
71% |
Importance of End of Tenancy Cleaning
The following are some of the reasons why both tenants and landlords agreed to do end of tenancy cleaning:
For Tenants
- A clean home helps you get your full deposit back.
- Avoid facing penalties for leases signed before the implementation of the Tenant Fees Act.
- A spotless handover leaves a good impression and helps with future rental references.
For Landlords
- Deep cleaning keeps the property in great condition.
- It prevents disputes and reduces the need for deductions.
- A clean home means faster turnaround between tenants.
👉Related Reading: End of Tenancy Cleaning Prices in Britain
End of Tenancy Cleaning Laws UK
Both tenants and landlords should understand their cleaning rights under UK law. The Tenant Fees Act 2019 sets clear rules on what can and cannot be charged when it comes to cleaning at the end of a tenancy.
1. No Mandatory Professional Cleaning Fees
Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, landlords cannot require tenants to pay for professional cleaning services. So, tenants are only responsible for leaving the property as it was at the time of move-in, not professionally cleaned.
2. Old Agreements No Longer Apply
If a tenancy started before 1 June 2019 and included a cleaning fee, that clause was valid only until 31 May 2020. After this date, such fees can no longer be charged. This law protects all tenants regardless of their lease start date.
3. Fair Cleaning Standards Still Apply
According to the end of tenancy cleaning laws UK gov, Tenants must return the property in the same clean condition they received it. However, wear and tear due to natural and fair causes is not chargeable.
Landlords can request a professional standard of cleanliness. However, they cannot specify any cleaning company. Extra cleaning charges for COVID-related concerns are also not permitted.
4. Deposit Deductions Must Be Justified
When a property is left excessively dirty, landlords can deduct cleaning costs from the deposit. Nevertheless, they will need proper evidence for such deductions.
These proofs include things like a signed inventory, photos, or cleaning receipts. Deductions for normal wear and tear are not allowed in any case.
Tenant’s and Landlord’s Responsibilities and Rights
According to the end of tenancy cleaning laws UK, tenants are not obliged to pay for any sort of professional deep clean, However, they are assigned some responsibilities when it comes to cleaning. This section explains responsibilities and rights of both parties for a better end of tenancy.
Tenant’s Responsibilities
Here are some tasks tenants are typically responsible for during end-of-tenancy cleaning:
- Creating a Property Inventory
While moving in, creating a property inventory should be a priority. Through this, you can document the condition of the property and its contents to avoid disputes later.
|
Inventory Items |
Things to Checks |
|
1. Flooring and Carpets |
Note any stains, damage, or wear |
|
2. Worktops and Surfaces |
Check for scratches, chips, or marks |
|
3. Shelves and Units |
Record their condition and cleanliness |
|
4. Walls, Including Tiled Areas |
Look for holes, marks, or cracks |
|
5. Utilities |
Confirm that appliances and fixtures are working properly |
|
6. Baths, Basins, Sinks |
Check for leaks, chips, or stains |
|
7. Windows and Doors |
Note any cracks, broken locks, or damage |
|
8. Electrical Fittings |
Test lights, switches, and sockets for functionality |
|
9. Outdoor Areas |
Document the condition of gardens, patios, or balconies |
When doing inventory, have a look at every part of each room. We recommend you inspect even hidden areas like cupboards. You also need to keep visual records in the form of photos and videos. After making inventory, make the document official by getting signs from both parties.
- Cleaning Inside Drawers and Wiping Sockets
Before leaving a house, tenants should empty all cupboards and wipe them thoroughly inside and out. Afterwards, simply remove any dust and leftovers to prepare them for the next tenant.
While doing end of tenancy cleaning, wipe light switches and plug sockets to remove fingerprints. Keeping these small details clean shows attention to care and prevents complaints.
- Emptying and Washing the Bins
According to the end of tenancy cleaning laws UK gov, tenants must return the property in a clean condition. This also includes often-overlooked areas like bins. So, empty all bins and then thoroughly wash them afterwards.
Landlord’s Duties and Right to Charge
In the UK, end of tenancy cleaning rules aren’t just for tenants. Landlords have a role too.
- Start with Clear Rules
At move-in, show tenants what “clean” looks like. Walk through the place together. Go over the inventory and get it all in writing to save hassle later.
- Check In During the Stay
Pop by now and then (with notice, of course). If something’s off, like a funky fridge or grimy cabinets, mention it. You can even hand out a simple cleaning guide to set expectations.
- Fair Deposit Deductions
When you see a place in bad condition then agree, you have the right to cut money from deposits. However, always snap some photos to show before and after conditions.
How to Deep Clean for the End of Tenancy?
Tenants need to perform a deep clean when moving out to align with the end of tenancy cleaning laws UK. Apart from hiring professional services, you can also go for DIY cleaning.
Option 1: Professional Deep Cleaning Services
Professionals help tenants leave a rental in great condition. Cleaners cover all areas, including carpets, skirting boards, and appliances. They know how to tackle tough stains and clean every corner thoroughly.
However, end of tenancy cleaning can be costly, especially for large homes. So, compare prices and reviews before booking or choose DIY cleaning.
Option 2: DIY Deep Cleaning
Any tenant can perform a deep clean without paying a hefty amount with the right products. These essentials will help you tackle each area of the house for easy cleaning.
- All-Purpose Cleaners
Such cleaning products do a perfect job for everyday surfaces like countertops and shelves. With these, you can remove stains without damaging finishes.
- Kitchen Degreasers
These are ideal for tackling greasy ovens and extractor fans. While doing end of tenancy cleaning, such products will cut through tough grime.
- Robot Vacuums as an Effective Tool for Cleaning
To save time and effort, we recommend using robot vacuums to clean a property, especially for vacuuming carpets and hard floors. These devices run on scheduled cycles for effortless cleaning.
Apart from end-of-tenancy cleaning, you can use these robotic vacuums for cleaning your new home. Brands like eufy offer models that are available across different budgets and needs.
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Conclusion
As we summarise, understanding the end of tenancy cleaning laws UK is essential for both tenants and landlords. Professional cleaning cannot be mandated thanks to the Tenant Fees Act 2019. However, tenants are still required to leave the property clean.
Tenants need to conduct a thorough inventory and address cleaning tasks like removing stains. Doing so, they can surely avoid any future disputes. DIY cleaning is mostly the preferred choice for tenants, as most of them use detergents and other chemical products for this task.
For improved deep cleaning before leaving a house, robotic vacuums appear as an appropriate solution. These advanced devices, especially from Eufy, stand out as a smart investment for end of tenancy cleaning.
FAQs
What happens if I don’t clean at the end of tenancy in the UK?
If a property is left dirty, landlords can deduct cleaning costs from your deposit. To avoid this, clean the property thoroughly and align with the original inventory.
Is it better to hire a professional cleaner for end of tenancy cleaning in the UK?
You can hire professional cleaners for a better end of tenancy cleaning in the UK. These professionals have experience in cleaning the house to restore its original condition. However, DIY deep cleaning with the right tools and products often meets legal standards and saves costs.
What does “fair wear and tear” mean in the end of tenancy cleaning?
Fair wear and tear refers to the natural deterioration of a property due to regular use. Landlords cannot charge tenants for such wear under UK tenancy laws.
