Moving out of a rented property can be both exciting and stressful. One of the biggest concerns for tenants is ensuring the place is left spotless so that the full security deposit is returned. To help you breeze through the end-of-tenancy process, here are practical, easy-to-follow tips, and a recommendation on where to get professional help if you need it.
1. Start Early with a Checklist
Don’t leave cleaning until the last day. Create a room-by-room checklist at least 1–2 weeks before your moving date. Break down tasks like cleaning your kitchen appliances, bathroom tiles, shower screens and mirrors, skirting boards, windows and sills etc. This way the jobs can feel a lot more manageable and you can just tick them off as you go.
2. Declutter First
Before you deep clean, clear out all personal belongings and any rubbish. Leftover clutter makes cleaning harder and increases the risk of missing spots. Think about items and how often you use them. Are you keeping them just for the sake of it? You could put things on marketplace or Vinted to try and make some extra money off them too.
3. Get a Professional Clean for Peace of Mind
If you’re short on time or want to ensure everything is spotless, hiring professionals can be a lifesaver. You can find domestic cleaning services in London that specialise in end of tenancy and deep cleaning, saving you stress and helping you secure your full deposit back.
4. Use the Right Tools and Products
Make sure you have:
- Microfibre cloths
- Multi-surface cleaner
- Oven cleaner
- Floor cleaner suitable for your surfaces
- Glass cleaner for windows and mirrors
- Rubber gloves
Different surfaces need different products — for example, a stone countertop cleanser for granite, and a gentle bathroom solution for tiles.
5. Pay Attention to High-Traffic Areas
Landlords and inventory clerks always notice:
- Kitchen cabinets and drawers
- Oven and hob
- Bath, shower trays, toilets, and sinks
- Cupboards and shelves
- Carpets and flooring
Give these areas extra time and care.
6. Don’t Forget the Finishing Touches
Small details leave a big impression, so make sure you don’t forget the finishing touches. Things that people often forget to do include wiping inside the wardrobes, dusting the light fittings, cleaning behind the toilets and appliances, polishing mirrors and chrome fixtures and making sure the bin areas are clean and don’t smell.
7. Do a Final Inspection
Before handing back the keys, it’s a good idea to walk all around the property with your checklist. Take photos of the whole place, incliding areas you have cleaned and compare with the inventory report from when you moved in.This helps you spot anything missed and fix it before the official checkout.
Final Thought
An end of tenancy clean doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a plan, the right tools, and potentially a professional service, you can hand over the property in perfect condition and walk away with your full deposit intact.
