End of Tenancy Cleaning Checklist: Don't Lose Your Deposit
End of tenancy cleaning is the number one source of deposit disputes in the UK. Landlords and letting agents have high standards — and even a small oversight can result in deductions. This checklist covers every room so you don't miss anything.
Kitchen
- Clean inside and outside of all cupboards and drawers
- Degrease oven interior, racks, and door glass — this is the most commonly failed item
- Clean hob, extractor fan filter, and surrounding walls
- Descale and clean inside microwave, dishwasher, washing machine, and fridge/freezer
- Defrost freezer if needed
- Clean sink, taps, and any limescale buildup
- Wipe down all surfaces, splashbacks, and tiles
- Clean light fittings and switches
- Sweep and mop floor, paying attention to corners and under appliances
Bathroom
- Descale shower head, taps, and screen — limescale is a common deduction
- Clean grout lines with a grout cleaner or old toothbrush
- Scrub toilet inside and out, including under the rim
- Clean bath or shower tray, removing any soap scum
- Wipe down tiles, mirror, and any glass surfaces
- Clean extractor fan cover
- Scrub sink and remove any limescale around the plughole
- Mop floor and clean behind the toilet
Bedrooms and Living Areas
- Dust all surfaces, shelves, skirting boards, and picture rails
- Wipe inside wardrobes, drawers, and cupboards
- Clean light fittings and ceiling fans
- Wipe down window sills, frames, and blinds
- Clean mirrors and glass
- Vacuum and/or steam-clean carpets — professional carpet cleaning is usually required by tenancy agreements
- Clean hard floors — sweep, mop, and polish if needed
- Remove all marks and scuffs from walls (use Magic Eraser for minor marks)
Throughout the Property
- Clean all light switches and plug sockets
- Wipe down all doors, handles, and hinges
- Clean inside and outside of all windows
- Remove cobwebs from ceilings and corners
- Clean radiators — including the tops and between panels
- Hoover under and behind all furniture
- Empty and clean all bins
- Clear all rubbish from inside and outside the property
Outside (If Applicable)
- Clear and sweep the garden, patio, or balcony
- Remove any rubbish or items left in the garden
- Clean external windows and doors
Should You Do It Yourself or Hire Professionals?
Many tenancy agreements require a professional clean at the end of tenancy — and even when they don't, a professional clean dramatically increases your chances of getting your full deposit back. Professional end of tenancy cleaners know exactly what landlords and letting agents look for.
At Fair Price Movers, our end of tenancy cleaning service is guaranteed to meet landlord and letting agent standards. If any issues are raised during inspection, we'll return and re-clean for free. Find out more about our cleaning service or book with your removal for a discount.