End of Tenancy Cleaning: The Complete Guide for Tenants and Landlords in 2026

End of tenancy cleaning is the single most common cause of deposit disputes between tenants and landlords. In the UK alone, over 50% of all deposit deductions are related to cleaning. Whether you're a tenant trying to get your full deposit back, or a landlord preparing a property for new tenants, this guide covers everything you need to know.

What is end of tenancy cleaning?

End of tenancy cleaning (also called move-out cleaning or vacate cleaning) is a deep clean of a rental property carried out when a tenant moves out. It's designed to return the property to the condition it was in at the start of the tenancy — as documented in the inventory report.

What does an end of tenancy clean include?

• Kitchen — oven, hob, extractor fan, fridge/freezer, microwave, all surfaces, cupboards inside and out, sink
• Bathrooms — toilet, bath, shower, sink, tiles, mirrors, extractor fan, all surfaces
• All rooms — vacuuming carpets, mopping hard floors, dusting all surfaces, skirting boards, light fittings
• Windows — internal window cleaning, window sills, and frames
• Walls — removing marks, scuffs, and stains where possible
• Doors — cleaning door frames, handles, and light switches
• Outdoor areas — if applicable: patio, balcony, garden furniture

How much does end of tenancy cleaning cost in 2026?

• Studio/1-bed flat: £100–£180
• 2-bed flat or house: £150–£250
• 3-bed house: £200–£350
• 4-bed house: £280–£450
• 5-bed house: £350–£600
• Prices vary by location — London rates are typically 20–30% higher
• Oven cleaning is often charged separately: £40–£80
• Carpet cleaning is often charged separately: £30–£60 per room

Do I legally have to have a professional end of tenancy clean?

In England and Wales, the Tenant Fees Act 2019 prohibits landlords from requiring tenants to use a specific cleaning company. However, landlords can require the property to be returned in the same condition as at the start of the tenancy. If the inventory shows the property was professionally cleaned at the start, the landlord can deduct from the deposit if it isn't professionally cleaned at the end.

How to find a professional end of tenancy cleaner near you

1. 1Post your job at cqdnewgen.ai/post-requirement — specify "end of tenancy" as the clean type
2. 2Include your property size, postcode, and preferred date
3. 3Review matched cleaners — filter for Gold badge (DBS Submitted) for maximum trust
4. 4Check that the cleaner offers a re-clean guarantee — most professional EOT cleaners do
5. 5Confirm the booking and pay through the escrow system — funds released only when you're satisfied

What is a re-clean guarantee?

A re-clean guarantee means the cleaner will return and re-clean any areas the landlord or letting agent is not satisfied with — at no extra charge. This is standard practice for professional end of tenancy cleaners and is the most important thing to confirm before booking.

End of tenancy cleaning checklist for tenants

• Book your cleaner at least 1 week before your move-out date — good cleaners get booked up fast
• Defrost the freezer 24 hours before the clean
• Remove all personal belongings before the cleaner arrives
• Be present for the clean or arrange access — you'll want to check the result before handing back keys
• Take photos of the property after the clean — timestamped evidence protects you in any dispute
• Keep your receipt and the cleaner's service specification — you may need it for a deposit dispute

End of tenancy cleaning for landlords

As a landlord, a professionally cleaned property at the start of a tenancy sets a clear standard and protects your deposit deduction rights. CQD New Gen connects you with verified, insured cleaners who can prepare your property to a professional standard between tenancies.