Here’s why a “set it and forget it” approach might not be the best strategy. Here are some key actions you can take to maximise your chances of getting that deposit back in full.

You might also like: Budgeting for Your Move in 2025: End of Tenancy Cleaning Prices in London

Make sure to remove all your belongings before the end of tenancy cleaning.

Moving Out Completely is Essential

This might seem obvious, but the property must be entirely empty before the cleaners arrive. The team is there to tackle grime and dust, not mountains of boxes and furniture. A clear space allows for a thorough clean, reaching every nook and cranny for a flawless finish.  Schedule your cleaning after your move-out is complete to ensure smooth and efficient service.

Read also: Beware! Disputes Over Cleaning Are a Growing Cause of End of Tenancy Deposit Deductions for London Tenants

Donating to charity or selling on Facebook market place are a great ways to declutter your home when moving out.

Declutter and Dispose of Unwanted Items

While we’re happy to tackle a standard amount of rubbish generated during the cleaning process, excessive waste disposal is typically excluded from most end-of-tenancy cleaning services (be sure to check your specific service agreement with Cleaner Cleaner or any other cleaning company for that matter). Also, it’s worth reading the detailed end of tenancy cleaning checklist if the company you’ve chosen has it posted on its website.

Clear out unwanted belongings and dispose of them responsibly before the cleaning team arrives to avoid unpleasant surprises. That includes general waste, your old furniture that you won’t need anymore, and any lingering recycling. By taking care of this beforehand, you’ll save yourself time and potential extra charges.

Check also: Stress-Free Move Out: Your Guide to a Smooth End-of-Tenancy

Remember the exact requirements of your landlord before requesting end of lease cleaning service.

Understanding Your Letting Agents and Landlord’s Expectations

Every letting agent and landlord has specific standards for cleanliness. While a professional end of lease clean will undoubtedly elevate the property’s condition, it’s always wise to refer back to your tenancy agreement or consult with your landlord to understand their specific expectations. Their requirements could include details like carpet cleaning or deep sofa cleaning.   

Knowing your landlord’s requirements allows you to discuss any specific needs with your cleaners beforehand, ensuring the service perfectly aligns with both your and your landlord’s expectations.

Read also: Beyond the Mop: Unveiling the Secrets of Professional End-of-Tenancy Cleaning

Sometimes, a coat of fresh paint is way better than scrubbing shabby doors.

A Deep Clean Doesn’t Erase Damage, Wear & Tear

Our cleaning expertise works wonders, but it can’t undo pre-existing damage. Scuffs on the walls, holes in the doors, or malfunctioning appliances are considered tenant liabilities and will likely result in deductions from your deposit.  

Address any damages before the end of tenancy cleaning takes place. Minor repairs, like patching small holes or touching up paintwork, are relatively cheap and will significantly improve your chances of a full deposit return.

Get familiar with the terms and conditions of your cleaning company.

Read the Fine Print: Understanding the Cleaning Service Agreement

It is crucial to take a few minutes to thoroughly read the terms and conditions of your chosen cleaning service. This document outlines the specific inclusions and exclusions of the service you’ve booked. Knowing what’s covered prevents any misunderstandings and ensures you’re prepared for the cleaning day.  

At Cleaner Cleaner, our terms and conditions are readily available on our website. We encourage you to get familiar with these details to ensure a smooth and successful cleaning.

Lower rates can translate to unprofessional service or hidden costs, so it’s better to hire cleaners with transparent pricing.

Choosing Value Over Price

While cost is a factor, there are better strategies than prioritising the cheapest cleaning service. A reputable company that uses high-quality cleaning products and employs experienced cleaners will likely deliver a more thorough and professional clean, significantly increasing your chances of a flawless inspection.

Here at Cleaner Cleaner, we offer competitive rates without compromising on quality. Our extensive experience in end of lease cleaning ensures we deliver a service that meets the highest standards, maximising your chances of getting your deposit back in full.

Check also: End of Tenancy Cleaning – Here’s What You Get For Your Money

Provide detailed information when requesting a quote. The person handling your booking is there to answer all your questions.

The Power of Communication: Working with Your Cleaners

Open communication is key to every successful cleaning. Once you’ve enquired about an end of lease cleaning service with Cleaner Cleaner, you’re usually assigned a dedicated account manager. Here’s how to get the most out of this valuable resource:

• Be specific: During the booking process, highlight areas requiring particular attention, such as stubborn stains or heavily used appliances.
• Open communication is vital: Don’t hesitate to ask questions! The account managers handling your booking are there to guide you through the process and address any concerns you might have.
• Double-check the details: Review the confirmation email containing the date, time, and service details to ensure everything is understood.
• Allow easy access: Ensure the property is accessible to the cleaning team on the scheduled date. This step may involve arranging key collection or informing any building security personnel.
• Be there: although you don’t need to stay there while the cleaners do their magic, being present on the cleaning day benefits everybody! A quick walkthrough of the property with you allows the cleaners to understand any specific concerns you might have and tailor their approach accordingly.

Read also: Carpet Cleaning When Moving Out

Plan the cleaning service ahead of time to avoid scheduling conflicts.

Maximising the End of Tenancy Cleaning’s Efficiency

Every trustworthy end of tenancy cleaning company ensures a comprehensive standard of service. However, there are additional steps you can take to enhance the clean further and impress your landlord:

• Schedule your move out clean wisely: Don’t leave it to the last minute! Book your end-of-tenancy clean well in advance, especially during peak moving seasons. This step allows for ample planning and ensures our team’s availability on your preferred date
• Don’t underestimate the deep cleaning job: Consider requesting carpet, sofa, or mattress cleaning as add-on services. These areas often require specialised equipment and expertise; our experienced cleaners can ensure a professional finish.
• Empty and defrost appliances: Empty and defrost your refrigerator and freezer before the cleaners arrive. This step allows them to thoroughly clean these appliances, ensuring they’re fresh and ready for the new tenants.

Take high-quality photos from outside and inside of the property to use in case of disputes.

Pro Tips for the Inspection Day

There are a few things you can do to ensure a hassle-free final inspection: 

• Leave the property spotless: Avoid tracking in dirt or mud once the cleaning is complete. The goal is to present the property in the same impeccably clean state the cleaners left it in.
• Document the results: Consider taking high-quality photos of the cleaned property after the cleaners have finished. Capture images of each room, focusing on critical areas like the kitchen and bathroom. These photos can be helpful in case of any disputes regarding the cleaning standard during the final inspection.
• Setting the final inspection: Arrange the final inspection as soon as possible after the professional cleaning service. This will guarantee that the property will look impeccable, with no new piled-up dust.

When it comes to the final inspection of the property, the truth is that all comes to human judgment. Some inventory clerk? are stricter than others, and the whole experience can be nerve-wracking – what if there are omissions? At Cleaner Cleaner, we understand the worry. That’s why we offer the industry’s most comprehensive guarantee in London. If you have booked an end-of-tenancy cleaning with us and your inventory clerk identifies any areas that need attention, we’ve got you covered! We’ll happily return and reclean them, free of charge, for a whole seven days after your initial cleaning. Most competitors only offer a 72-hour window, leaving you scrambling if an issue arises later. With our extended clean guarantee, you choose peace of mind.

Book end of tenancy cleaning in London with us and enjoy impeccable results and a hassle-free experience!

Ready to Secure Your Deposit and Move with Confidence?

Don’t settle for just “any” end of tenancy cleaning service in London. At Cleaner Cleaner, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional cleaning services tailored to your needs. Contact us today for a free quote, and let’s discuss how we can help you achieve a stress-free end of tenancy experience. 

Please fill out our form to request a quote, or call us on 020 3475 2751 to learn more and book your cleaning today! Remember, with a bit of preparation, clear communication, and a professional cleaning service by your side, getting your full deposit back can be a smooth and satisfying experience.

Fortunately, a few simple and readily available items can effectively tackle sticker residue on different surfaces. Our professional end of tenancy cleaners have a trick (or ten) in their sleeve on how to remove stubborn stickers and labels. This article will explore ten solutions to help you rid your belongings of adhesive residue.

Read also: Stain Removal is a matter of Chemistry

Heat

Applying heat is a quick and easy way to remove intact stickers. Use a blow dryer on medium-high heat, holding it a few inches from the sticker. The heat loosens the adhesive, making peeling or scraping easier.

Where to use it?

You can use the heat method to remove glue and stickers from almost any surface. However, you should be extremely careful when heating plastic surfaces and synthetic fabrics, as sometimes, even low temperatures can damage these materials. 

Plastic Scraper

A plastic scraper or the edge of a library card can effectively remove sticky residue for smooth materials like glass. Gently scrape the residue off the surface, ensuring not to scratch it. For stubborn residue, combine this method with heat application.

Where to use it?

You can use scraping on any hard and smooth surface like glass, plastic and metal. It could work on wood, too, if the material is polished. Avoid using scrapers on textured surfaces like wallpapers and fabrics – it won’t be very effective, and you can damage the surface.

Check also: 12 Spring Cleaning Hacks To Transform Your Home [Infographic] 

Tape

Take advantage of adhesive properties using tape to remove stubborn stickers. Wrap a piece of masking or duct tape around your finger with the sticky side facing out. Press it onto the residue, and the adhesive will lift it away.

Where to use it?

Masking tape is perfect for removing stickers and labels stuck on delicate or textured surfaces like clothes, carpets or wallpapers. Duct tape works great for removing adhesive residue from hard surfaces and materials. However, avoid using strong bond tapes like duct tape on walls or other painted or lacquered surfaces and materials. Strong tapes can strip the coating, leaving you with a bigger problem than a piece of an old sticker.

Soap & Water

A classic cleaning solution, soapy water works wonders for sticker removal. For glasses or mugs, soak them in a sink filled with warm water and dish soap. Apply the soapy water to windows with a sponge or cloth, letting it sit for 20-30 seconds before scraping off the residue.

Where to use it?

Besides loosening up stickers and labels on glass surfaces, warm soapy water can help you remove adhesive residue from almost any type of surface and materials – tiles, ceramic, porcelain, metal and wood surfaces. Of course, this method is inappropriate for water-sensitive surfaces like cardboard, wallpaper, or painted walls, as the liquid can dissolve and damage the paint.  

Oil 

Baby oil, cooking oil or even lubricants like Vaseline can effectively loosen old stickers. Apply a small amount to the leftover adhesive and gently rub the spot. The oils will help you push the glue away and remove the old stickers and labels. Be cautious; oil can leave a greasy residue, so thoroughly clean the surface after removing the stickers.

Where to use it?

Removing adhesives with oil is a wonderful method for polished wood, laminate, metal, plastic, glass and other firm and smooth materials and surfaces. However, you should avoid applying oils on fabrics, wallpaper, painted walls, and untreated wood, as they permanently stain these materials.

Read also: How often should you clean? The ultimate cleaning cheat sheet for everything around the house!

Rubber Eraser 

Not just for pencil marks, a rubber eraser can roll away sticker residue on most surfaces. Gently rub the eraser over the residue until it lifts off.

Where to use it?

This method works best on firm, smooth surfaces like glass, metal, plastic or polished wood. Don’t use it on paper; it can rip off the material. 

Photo: Ajay Suresh on Flickr

Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is a versatile solvent that can help you easily remove sticker glue. Apply it to a cloth or cotton ball and gently rub the residue until it dissolves. 

Where to use it?

This method works wonders for removing glue and adhesive residue from glass, metal and plastic. Avoid using alcohol on painted, shellacked, lacquered, or varnished surfaces.

Check also: The Ultimate Room-by-Room Spring Cleaning Checklist 

Acetone (Nail Polish Remover)

Acetone is a powerful solvent for sticky adhesive residue. Apply a few drops on a cotton ball and rub it onto the spot you want to clean. Be cautious when using acetone, as it can damage certain surfaces, so perform a spot test first.

Where to use it?

Use acetone on glass, ceramics, tiles, and laminate. You can also use it on natural fabrics to remove adhesive residue from stubborn labels. Avoid applying acetone on anything plastic, as it can dissolve and damage the material. 

WD-40

WD-40* is a versatile lubricant that can also remove sticker residue. Spritz it onto the residue and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, use a piece of rag to wipe away the residue.

Where to use it?

This petroleum-based lubricant can be used to remove adhesive residue from metal, plastic, glass, ceramics and even wood. Avoid applying WD-40 on paper, clothes, upholstery or painted walls, as it can leave unsightly stains.

Read also: Hassle-Free Tenant’s Moving Guide

Commercial Cleaners

Specific commercial adhesive removers are available designed to tackle sticker residue. Look for products like D.RECT Adhesive and Label Remover, Goo Gone or other adhesive removal solutions* in the household cleaners section of stores.

Where to use it?

Each commercial adhesive remover has a slightly different formula, so to be safe, always check the label on how and where you can use them.

*Please note that we are not affiliated with any of the products or brands mentioned in this article. We only recommend them as a reference for products that, in our opinion, work well.

Removing sticker residue will no longer be daunting, thanks to these simple and effective methods and products shared by Cleaner Cleaner’s end of tenancy cleaning professionals. Whether you use heat, tape, soap and water, or everyday household items like oil, erasers, rubbing alcohol, or acetone, there is a solution for every surface. Remember to test any method or product on a small, inconspicuous area first and use caution to avoid damaging sensitive materials. With these techniques, you can bid farewell to sticker residue and restore the pristine condition of your home and belongings.

You might also like: Budgeting for Your Move in 2025: End of Tenancy Cleaning Prices in London

How to Prevent Getting Deductions From Your Security Deposit

First of all, we want to stress that all sides suffer in one way or another when a tenant doesn’t get their deposit in full because of cleaning omissions. If there are some issues with the hygiene of a property, the landlord or agency has to call another cleaner because they can’t rent it out. Cleaners are also frustrated because they’ve invested a lot of time and effort and want to satisfy the clients. And, of course, you – the tenant – lose money, which is more than unpleasant – we all know changing housing is not a cheap endeavour! With that being said, you can take a few steps to ensure you won’t get any deductions from your end of tenancy deposit. Here’s what you can do regarding the situation and the other participants.  

You, the Tenant 

Many things can cause a part or even the entire deposit to be withheld, from missing furniture to permanent damage. However, disputes over the home’s cleanliness are still among the top reasons tenants do not take back the full amount of their security deposit. To make sure that the home will be cleaned to the professional standard required by the real estate agency, it is not enough to just hire end of tenancy cleaners. You, as a tenant, must provide the property in a condition suitable for professional cleaning. That means when the cleaners arrive, you’ve moved out of the rental with all your luggage. The property should have only the furniture and fittings you rented it with and nothing else so that the experts can move freely and do their job. Also, you must ensure no one enters or uses the property after the professional end of tenancy cleaning until the final inspection, including movers, handymen, and even you. This is the only way to guarantee the rental will remain cleaned up to a professional standard with no remarks from the inspectors. 

Check also: Hassle-Free Tenant’s Moving Guide

Letting Agents / Landlords

Some letting agencies do not allow cleaners to return to the property if the inventory report notes any omissions. Please check with your agents what is their policy. Suppose they don’t allow the cleaning crew to return. In that case, we at Cleaner Cleaner usually offer our clients an alternative solution. We encourage them to organise the inventory inspection at 12:00 pm if they have selected a morning cleaning slot or at 4:00 pm if they have selected an afternoon cleaning slot. This way, the inventory clerk turns up towards the end of the move out cleaning service. If they spot any omissions, our team can correct them on the spot, avoiding the unnecessary hassle and helping our clients get their deposits back.

Read also: What is Professional End of Tenancy Cleaning

Inventory Clerks 

They are a third party in the process of handover the rented property. These are inspectors from an independent company, and they don’t work for the letting agent or the landlord. And sometimes, these inspectors are pretty rigid in their reports. They list some minor issues as omissions, making it more difficult for you to get back your deposit in full. Well, you can’t be mad at them because finding the tiniest specks of dust is why they get paid. There’s no sure way to predict their behaviour. However, you can take some precautions before the end of tenancy cleaning. Ask the letting company to give you a list of things that need to be done professionally, so you can communicate the requirements with your end of tenancy cleaners. In most cases, they hand the same inventory to the inspector. That way, if there are any disputes, you have the ground to argue that you have fulfilled your obligations as a tenant.

Check also: Professional vs. domestic cleaning at the end of a tenancy

Cleaning Companies 

Make sure that you hire a truly professional company for the end of tenancy cleaning of your property! Many people opt for the lowest price of the service when hiring move-out cleaners. However, the lowest price often means the lowest quality of the job. Needless to say, when working with a questionable company, the risk of getting money deducted from your security deposit due to hygiene issues is high. And sometimes, even if they do provide a decent quality of a service, it comes with an unpleasant surprise. Some companies put up a “fixed price” for the end of tenancy cleaning, for example, 150£ for a one-bedroom apartment. That sounds like a deal, right? However, move-out cleaning isn’t really a fixed service. Every property is different. A one-bedroom flat can have a bedroom and a kitchen, and that’s that, while another may include a study, a utility room, or a big dining room. And if you book cleaners that offer a fixed price, this can go in two directions. They would either clean the property partially, or you will have to pay additional charges for every room and area they consider extra. Always choose the end of tenancy cleaners who ask about many details about the property. That’s the only way to be certain that the price you are presented with is final.

Read also: Do you want “Cheap” or “Best Value” end of tenancy cleaning?

And we might be repeating ourselves here, but also, make sure to find out if your agents have any specific requirements. Then, run them by the cleaners to avoid disappointment and deductions from your security deposit. So, when you are about to move out, take the extra step of researching the end of tenancy cleaning companies in your area. All companies out there offer a cleaning guarantee, so you should consider when doing your research to check the conditions of the said guarantee. Or in other words, a reputable company should explain in which cases they return to clean if any omissions are present. Everyone can overlook something small when cleaning the whole property top to bottom – after all, we are all human. But if we have complaints, we go back and take before and after pictures of those things or places that we missed so that they can be used as proof that the job was done. Unlike some questionable professionals, we will provide you with evidence that we have kept our word to return and clean the property up to the promised standard.

Read also: Carpet Cleaning When Moving Out

So, with all being said, we will try to put it shortly: 

• Know the letting agency’s requirements
• Make sure the inspection is set no more than 24 hours after the professional end of tenancy cleaning
• Research your move-out cleaners very well

If all these conditions are met, there shouldn’t be any reason for deductions from your deposit. 

We like to think our checklist is pretty comprehensive. By following it, moving out of a rented property and getting settled into your new home will be less stressful and more exciting.

The amount of time you need to plan ahead will depend on how much you need to do. We recommend you scan through the list below and decide beforehand. Some people even need up to 2 months.

You might also like: How to Secure Your Deposit Return with End of Tenancy Cleaning

Check Your Tenancy Agreement

Before you vacate a rental, you will have multiple responsibilities to fulfil. That is why you should check your obligations well in advance.

You will have to double-check the date your lease expires. Make sure it coincides with your moving date to avoid any issues. You don’t want to have to end up paying for storage and hotels.

If you do end up having to book hotels and storage space, do so several days in advance.

And, of course, make sure you check the tenancy agreement. This way you will avoid missing any of your obligations as a tenant. These will typically include:

• You must leave the rental property in a good state of repair;
• Performing a thorough end of tenancy clean is also obligatory to guarantee it’s suitable for new tenants;
• Hand in keys, fobs and keyrings;
• Ensure everything from the inventory list is present and in working order;
• Another thing to keep in mind is that your landlord should inform you of your obligations at least 2 weeks in advance. You should check that their requirements correspond with those in your lease agreement. Some landlords may try to make you do more than what was originally agreed when you first arrived;
• You should also be invited to the end-of-lease inspection.
• These few things will inevitably play a major part in your move-out checklist. Make sure you give yourself sufficient time to squeeze in all these chores. The aim is to breeze through them at a steady pace rather. You don’t want to be rushing around like a mad thing on the last few days of your move.

Attend to the Inventory

Upon arrival in your current rental property, the landlord should have given you an inventory list. This list includes things in the property, such as furniture and fittings.

You should go over the inventory to make sure everything is present and in working order. Otherwise, the landlord can use this to withhold a percentage of your security deposit.

• If there are any missing or broken items from the list, you should inform the landlord or letting agent. They can let you know how best to repair or replace them;
• Fix things like nail holes and scuff marks well in advance of your leaving date. Performing tasks in advance, bit by bit will help you have a hassle-free experience;
• Check that all lightbulbs are working. Replace those that need replacing, as letting agents can ask an electrician to do that. That would include fees on top of the cost of lightbulbs that will be deducted from your security deposit;
• Make sure all the keys and fobs for the property are present. To avoid being charged for missing keys, get new ones cut.

If you neglect to fulfil your responsibilities, the landlord has the right to retain some to all of your deposit. That is why it is in your best interest to follow the instructions from our hassle-free tenant’s moving guide.

Admin Checks

The little odds and sods of admin duties tend to get overlooked. Make sure to pay extra attention to this section.

• It’s a good idea to secure time off work. Depending on the size of the rental, the amount of belongings you have
• and the distance you have to travel to your new place, you may want to take a couple of days off. This will secure a hassle-free moving experience;
• Inform the Post Office of the date to start redirecting your mail to your new address;

You will also need to inform all utility companies you are changing your address. Otherwise, you will be liable for services you are not using. These services include:

• Gas and electric;
• Waterboard;
• Telephone/Broadband;
• TV/Satellite;
• TV licence;
• Alternative fuel supplier (propane gas, wood chips, coal).

You will also need to inform the following institutions:

• Bank;
• Insurers;
• Driving license;
• GP/Hospital/Dentist;
• Children’s school/university;
• HMRC;
• Local authorities (council tax, JSA or other benefit agencies);
• Companies House (if relevant);
• Workplace;
• Libraries for returning books/DVDs;
• Commerce websites (Amazon, eBay, etc.).
• It is a good idea to also cancel any local services, such as newspapers, cleaners, window cleaners, and fuel delivery.

Packing

Of course, everyone has their own packing systems. However, it is always helpful to have some easy-to-follow guidelines in black and white.

1. First off, you need to declutter. We advise you to start at least one month in advance. It is much easier to sort through things you need and things it’s better to dispose of in advance. After all, it is a waste of time to pack things you are just going to throw away as soon as you arrive;
2. Also, keep in mind that most waste collection companies will only take so many bags a week. If you dump a mountain of them outside all at once, you may receive a heavy penalty from the council;
3. Take all unwanted items that are in usable condition to a local charity shop. One man’s rubbish is another man’s treasure. Not only that, but the money goes to a good cause too;
4. Make sure you have sturdy packaging boxes. You can always grab some banana boxes from your local supermarket. Avoid the larger ones as they can be hard to carry or break under the weight;
5. Start with packing less-used items. You will probably stack other boxes on top of them and this way you won’t have to go digging for things you need;
6. Always label boxes to avoid the frustration of losing things;
7. Make sure you book your removal company well in advance. Alternatively, you could get a rental van and do your own lifting and driving;
8. Another good idea is to pack one or two separate boxes with clothes and other bits and bobs you will need for your first night. Bedclothes, shower gel, toothbrush and toothpaste, towel, makeup, hairbrush, etc.

Hire a Professional Cleaning Service

Most tenancy agreements will include a clause specifying that the rental property should be left clean. Check for a clause that requires obligatory professional end of tenancy cleaning services or steam cleaning carpets, upholstery and linen.

Check also: Carpet cleaning when moving out

Even if you don’t find such a clause, all landlords insist that the accommodation is spotless and ready for new tenants to move in. When the landlord deems the place unfit for its new arrivals, will hire a professional cleaning service themselves. The cost will be deducted from your deposit in this event. However, if you follow our hassle-free tenant’s moving guide, you should avoid any such issues. 

Here is a list of things you should get organized in relation to end of tenancy cleaning:

• Ask your landlord or letting agent if an end of tenancy clean is required. If so, ask what exactly needs to be done, e.g. appliances, ovens, carpets, soft furnishings, windows, etc.
• Also, ask the letting agent to recommend a professional cleaning company. They will likely give you the service provider they use. This will give you the chance to compare prices and find a legitimate end of tenancy cleaning company.
• Whilst scouting for a cleaning company, give them a list of requirements from the landlord. This will enable them to provide you with an accurate quote for the job. Ask for their end of tenancy checklist to see what is included.
• Defrost the freezer. This will also likely be a requirement you can find in the lease agreement. It takes ages to defrost and won’t get done if you leave it to the last minute. You will have to pay for it to be defrosted manually if you leave it to the last day.
• Descale toilets. Due to a lot of hard water in the UK and especially in London, toilets accumulate a lot of limescale. This is often impossible to remove on the last day, so make sure to leave yourself some time. We recommend Harpic original 100% limescale remover. Apply it in the morning and it should be gone after a few days. Do not apply to chrome surfaces as it may tarnish the chrome finish.
• Don’t attempt to tackle carpet stains and spots using your typical cleaning products that say Carpet Cleaner. Those generally make the matter worse.
• Keep your receipts from professional cleaning services as proof. This will serve you if there are any disputes with your landlord regarding your deposit. If your landlord is unhappy with the hygiene, cleaners should return without any additional charge to you.
• Although all London end of tenancy cleaners claim their service is fully guaranteed, some only have a 48h guarantee. This is an insufficient period for an official report to be produced and sent to tenants. Those companies are relying on that fact to avoid any extra work. You need to find one that will leave you a window of at least 7 days.

Read also: Budgeting for Your Move in 2025: End of Tenancy Cleaning Prices in London

Moving Into Your New Home

By the time your moving date arrives, we expect you will have everything organized. Especially if you have followed our hassle-free tenant’s moving guide. However, there a still a couple of things to get done before and on the day of your move:

• Given you have completed your responsibilities, it’s only fair that you should expect equal treatment in your new accommodation. Confirm with your new landlord that the property has been professionally cleaned – feel free to give them our contact details;
• If you are using your own vehicle for the move, fill up the tank the night before. Especially if you are expecting a lot of traffic. The last thing you want is a delay to refuel;
• In case you are using movers, you need to make sure they have a space to park close by. You may need to contact the local council to reserve a bay or two for the vans. Otherwise, you may end up having to pay extra fees;
• Before you move into your new home, take detailed photographs of the entire property. Run through the inventory to make sure everything is in order and keep both the inventory and the photos safe for your next move. Report anything that looks damaged to the letting agent immediately;
• Take the meter readings for gas, electricity and water from your previous rental. You should also take photographic evidence to avoid being charged for utilities you have not used;
• Take the same meter readings in your new home for the same reason;
• Before you finally leave, make sure all the doors and windows are closed and that lights and utilities are off. Also, check that the hot water tank is not on a timer.

Deposit Return

Remember that landlords have the right to refuse to return all or part of your deposit. This is only possible if the terms of the contract have not been fulfilled when you leave. Commonly, landlords make little deductions for scuffed walls or stains that have not been entirely removed. It may sound unreasonable, but it is what it is.

Should a dispute arise, you will have to negotiate with your landlord and come to an appropriate agreement. The best way to resolve an argument is to avoid a dispute in the first place!

Read also: Alarming Trend: End of Tenancy Deposits Disputes Over Cleaning On the Rise!

This article is available as an infographic and you can access it here.

We wish you a happy and hassle-free move. If you have any doubts about our hassle-free tenant’s moving guide, feel free to get in touch if you need friendly advice or help!

Cleaner Cleaner Ltd.

What is Professional End of Tenancy Cleaning?

End of tenancy cleaning plays a vital part in returning your security deposit. The majority of landlords prefer for the tenant to be in charge of the check-out clean. In the case that no EOT clean has been performed, the landlord then has the right to deduct a large sum of money from your security deposit to cover cleaning costs. Sometimes, the landlord won’t even be happy with the job you’ve done, and will still deduct from your deposit. That’s where professional end of lease cleaners come in. Here is a short list of what you can expect when you request a professional end of tenancy cleaning service, and what you should look out for on their website:

• 100% clean guarantee
• Trained, vetted, and insured professional cleaners
• 72-hour re-clean guarantee
• Free online quote
• Quotes over the phone
• Review section and comments
• Prices online
• Online end of tenancy cleaning checklist

Read also: Alarming Trend: End of Tenancy Deposits Disputes Over Cleaning On the Rise!

What you Need to Know Before End of Tenancy Cleaning

Before you start the process of EOT cleaning, whether professional or by yourself, there are a few things you need to know and check. There are a few pre-lease agreements that need to be made before the start of your tenancy. You need to keep these documents safe and check them before you attempt a move-out clean. These are the 2 very important documents you need to keep safe throughout the entirety of your lease:

1. Tenancy/Lease agreement
2. Inventory Checklist

In these papers you will find:

• The condition the rental property is expected to be kept in;
• Responsibilities of the tenant regarding maintenance;
• Detailed inventory checklist of EVERYTHING (furniture, appliances, key facilities, floors, any visible damage, mildew and mould, etc.);
• Detailed description of the condition of the furniture, floor, walls, key facilities, etc.;
• High-quality pictures to accompany the inventory checklist for any questionable areas.

Check also: Budgeting for Your Move in 2025: End of Tenancy Cleaning Prices in London

What does Professional End of Tenancy Cleaning Include?

Now we come to the main question. What is professional end of tenancy cleaning and what does it include? There are a vast array of cleaning companies out there that offer professional end of tenancy cleaning. They all tend to have an end of tenancy cleaners checklist available on their main web pages as well as a price list. But we’ll provide you with a short checklist of all the basics that the majority of cleaning services offer:

Read also: End of tenancy cleaning – what do you get for your money

Kitchen:

• Cleaning of all kitchen appliances;
• Wiping down all work surfaces and cupboards;
• Dusting all surfaces;
• Cleaning any tiling.

Bathroom:

• Getting rid of all water stains;
• Cleaning out the sink basin, toilet and bath or shower;
• Getting rid of any obvious limescale staining;
• Scrubbing any fittings that need it.

Bedrooms:

• Thoroughly hoovering the mattresses;
• Wiping down all drawers, cupboards, wardrobes, etc.;

Dining room:

• Polishing the table;
• Polishing chairs and other furniture (display cabinets, cupboards, etc.);
• Wiping down all surfaces;

Living room:

• Wiping down/vacuuming armchairs and settees;
• Dusting and wiping down any hard furniture;
• Cleaning TV stands, shelves;
• Cleaning/wiping down all surfaces;

Other than these specific-to-each-room tasks they also cover these tasks in every room around the rented property:

• Vacuuming and mopping all floors;
• Dusting and removing cobwebs;
• Cleaning all door frames, doors and door handles;
• Wiping down all lights, light fittings, and light switches;
• Cleaning the insides of windows;
• Wiping the window frames;
• Carefully lifting any ornaments or furniture to clean under them.

Take in mind, that some services like carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, or mattress cleaning are not a part of the end of tenancy cleaning package. So, if you want carpet cleaning when moving out, you need to request it when booking your cleaners.

Check also: Do you want “Cheap” or “Best Value” end of tenancy cleaning?

We hope that this post will help you find and hire reliable cleaners that will assist you in getting your deposit back in a prompt and professional way.

At this time and until further notice, we are operating as we normally do, following the government advice in regards to social distancing to protect our customers and teams.

In order to minimise travel and make your life easier :

-You could post the keys to us

-You could pay by bank transfer

-We will send you detailed photos of the property after the clean

-We now offer Free disinfection and antiviral treatment as standard.

You can find helpful move out planner here.

Read also: The silver lining with the coronavirus

What we do as a precaution:

-We speak to all our employees every morning to make sure everyone is fit and well

-We wash hands and disinfect using bactericidal cleaner often throughout the day

-We are aiming to maintain a social distance of 2m between parties

-We sanitise our equipment daily with antiviral products

-Free antiviral treatment. We are offering this additional step to our professional carpet, upholstery and end of tenancy cleaning services completely free of charge. We hope this puts minds at ease, especially to those moving into new homes.

We ask our customers to also observe similar courtesies:

-Please do not attend to provide access for the cleaning service if you are feeling unwell or are displaying any of the signs of COVID-19. You can leave the keys in a safe place for us to collect. These include fever/temperature and persistent coughing.

-Please do not allow our teams into your property if you are self-isolating or display symptoms of COVID-19.

-If you need to re-arrange a booking, please call us at your earliest opportunity. This allows ample time for messages to be relayed and we need to maintain the usual common courtesies in these strange times.

We continue to monitor the situation closely and follow the government guidelines as they are issued.

Wishing you health and hope we all overcome the unprecedented challenges at this time!

Kind regards

Cleaner Cleaner Team

Throughout the summer several customers expressed their concerns about the price they paid after service was carried out. All concerns were of the same kind, but I will tell you about one of them.

Customer submitted an online form for an end of tenancy and carpet cleaning quotation. We have asked him about every single detail, and based on his replies we have provided him with a price quotation. On the day, one of our cleaners arrived sharp at 08:30, had a look around to make sure it was all as described , and started the cleaning process. Couple of hours later one of our carpet cleaning technicians came round to steam clean carpets in the property.

Read also: Budgeting for Your Move in 2025: End of Tenancy Cleaning Prices in London

When we have contacted the customer to inform him that service was about to be finished  as per his request, and asked him to head back to property to inspect and pay, he erupted like a volcano : how dare you finished so quickly, I am not paying over £200 for 4 hours for a cleaner.

I kindly waited until he vented all pressure he had accumulated over the moving house process, and asked him for couple of minutes of his valuable time. He wasn’t expecting such a response and let me speak. I said to him that I will quickly breakdown the price for him and if he still feels that this is ridiculous I will personally refund him the money . So I started :We pay rent for our office, we pay business rates, we pay wages for our customer service admins, we pay wages to our manager (myself) we pay wages to our account department, we pay fees to the bank for receiving payments, we pay Dropbox business to store photos taken before and after cleans,we use business internet, we use and pay for business phones, we use and pay for electricity and water, we pay for vans and diesel, we pay for cleaning products- the best and most efficient cleaning products, we pay for regular training at organisations like NCCA, IICRC, we pay membership fees for quite a few professional organisations, we pay Business insurance for our vans, we pay business public liability insurance, we pay for advertising and marketing, we pay hosting for our website, we pay IT guys for maintenance of our website, we pay Tax, and last but not least we pay our cleaners to come and clean your property. These professionals get paid very good money for what they do, and they fully deserve the money they get paid!

Check also: What is Professional End of Tenancy Cleaning

He was quiet for 15 seconds, then he said -Wow, I never thought how many people and processes were involved in an end of tenancy cleaninig, I was only thinking about the amount of time it took to clean the flat and when I divided it by the amount I paid it looked like a lot of money.

Since then, he had his inventory checkout done, and clerk complimented the standard of cleaning , the customer has recommended us to a lot of his friends.

So when a cleaner turns up at your property for a clean, you get much more than a cleaner, you get a full service that involves a lot for tasks and processes , and what should matter to a customer is whether they have had a good service and not how many people turned up.

Going for the cheapest quote will get you in trouble

To us a cheap end of tenancy cleaning service is not the cheapest in price initially quoted, and I underline the word initially, because often price is being put up on the day by nasty surprises. When customers enquire about our services we take the time to fully understand their needs, that’s why we ask them many questions, to try and avoid ambiguity. We try to educate them how the process works and then we co-create a service that works for everyone involved – tenants, letting agents and us as a service provider. For tenants it is important to get their security deposit back quickly and in full, for letting agents the importance is to get the property back in presentable and tenantable condition so that they can let it out again promptly, and for us as cleaners and service providers is to get a recognition by our customers. Good business is when all parties are satisfied.

Read also: Budgeting for Your Move in 2025: End of Tenancy Cleaning Prices in London

We provide a tailored quote – not “the cheapest quote”

When a customer inquires about our end of tenancy cleaning service we ask them a few things, which sometimes they find annoying to reply to because other companies don’t ask them, but it helps us provide a tailored quotation that is final and will not double up on the day of the clean.

1. When they move out their possessions and when is checkout – often tenants think that they can have the cleaning service done whenever is convenient for them, but they don’t realise that the cleaning should be done after the possessions are moved out, and nobody should go back and live in the property between cleaning and checkout. This saves money for a lot of customers, because if they are not moved out and we do the clean, as soon as they use the shower or toilet or leave their finger marks on nicely polished light-switch, the property will not be considered freshly, professionally cleaned. This will result in partly failed inventory, and it will cost the tenants money off their bond.
2. We ask our customers to fully describe their property i.e. how many levels, how many rooms there are, are there any special rooms, extra rooms, etc. as it is very easy to quote based on brief description, and put the price up on the day. Our prices may seem higher than those companies who conveniently do not ask as many questions, and rely heavily on terms and conditions and hidden extras; we prefer to get the full picture and quote correctly. Whenever we are quoting we put ourselves in our customer’s shoes and provide a transparent quotation with as much information as possible. A lot of our customers appreciate this, and come back to us for the same service every time they move out.
3. We ask our customers if they require professional upholstery, mattress, or carpet cleaning as part of the end of tenancy cleaning service, and once we have all information needed we provide a quotation. Sometimes customers mention property is split level, but we always clarify how many levels and how many sets of stairs just to make sure we are all on same page.
4. We advise our customers that they should not leave any rubbish behind as rubbish removal is not accounted for in the quotation, and with some properties even if we bagged it up we can’t leave it inside the property, and it has to be left on the street, however if collection day is few days away, tenants may get a penalty from the council.
5. We ask our customers about Venetian blinds, so many properties have blinds on their windows, and if not cleaned regularly they get really grubby and require either deep clean each slat one by one, or need replacing. Depending on the size of the property, there may be a lot of blinds, and if deep cleaning is required, at an average price of £15 + VAT per blind, it may add a considerable amount to the bill.
6. We fully explain how our guarantee works. This is an area that many of the so-called cheap companies fail big time. When a customer proceeds with booking our end of tenancy cleaning service, we send them a confirmation email, which confirms date and time, price, other important details and our Guarantee. What we promise to our customers is this: we will go back free of charge to address any issues noted on an official inventory report that has been done within 24 hours of the service rendered, and reported to us within 7 days of the service. 7 days is usually more than enough time for genuine concerns to be raised. We pride ourselves with the level of service we provide and we always listen to our customers, so even if somebody contact us outside the 7 days period, we look into it and try and resolve any issues.

Check also: Cheap Carpet Cleaning Is a Trap

We are reasonable bunch and our aim is not to get the money quickly and go, we provide a reliable service, and we are there for our customers when they need us. This sets Cleaner Cleaner apart from many of the so called cheap end of tenancy cleaning companies, we may not be the cheapest initially, however we work out to be among the best value ones at the end. That’s what customers should think about, not who give them the cheapest price over the phone, but who deliver the best value service. After all if you paid £50 less, and loose a portion of your deposit, the cheap option will end up being a false economy.

Vladimir Todorov

 Owner & Managing Director

If you already use a regular domestic cleaning company, you may be wondering whether the same firm could also tackle your end of tenancy cleaning London. After all, it’s true that domestic cleaners are professional cleaners who make their living this way and who, most of the time, do a good job keeping on top of the weekly tasks.

But there are various reasons why you may need something different when you leave a flat or house completely, and there are several benefits to using a professional end of lease cleaning service, even if the cost may initially seem higher. After all, if you had a heart condition, you wouldn’t see a lung specialist would you?

Read also: Alarming Trend: End of Tenancy Deposits Disputes Over Cleaning On the Rise!

For example:

1. While a standard domestic cleaning firm will be perfectly fine for things like dusting, wiping down surfaces and the like, a different approach is needed after a tenancy. While they may well have been very diligent and reliable in terms of keeping on top of the obvious routine cleaning tasks, deep cleaning may not have taken place, perhaps for many months.

2. Regular domestic cleaners usually use whatever products the customer happens to have in their home. A specialist professional cleaning firm will use their own products that they know work well and are effective. These kinds of professional cleaning products will tend to get the best results.

3. The job will simply be done better for the next tenants, while at the same time a proper end of tenancy clean means you’re much likelier to pass the inventory check and get your deposit refunded promptly and in full.

4. Specialist, professional operators have extensive experience of this kind of cleaning. You can look forward to a deep clean of the property from side to side. That includes a thorough going over of all your kitchen appliances, every inch of the bathroom, and things that regular cleaners just won’t do every week, such as doors and skirting boards.

Check also: End of tenancy cleaning – what do you get for your money

Most organisations providing professional end of tenancy cleaning services have a tried-and-tested schedule that they stick to, and they have a good understanding of what exactly needs to be tackled.

Specialists also know what doesn’t work. Washing painted walls, for example, can be a bad idea because they can look rather patchy once they’ve dried out. And, while heavily scuffed walls may need to be redecorated, a few marks should only be considered as ordinary wear and tear.

Read also: Do you want “Cheap” or “Best Value” end of tenancy cleaning?

When it comes to the windows, some letting agents or landlords do insist on having them cleaned inside and out, so tenants should check in the written agreement to find out exactly what needs to be done.

Carpets also need to be given some attention when it comes to moving out of a property. If they are carpeted rather than wooden or tiled floors, or if there are soft furnishings, these usually need professional carpet and upholstery cleaning. So it’s always worth making sure that the cleaners you hire are qualified and are able to do the carpets as part of an end of tenancy clean.

Before taking on your London cleaning company, make sure you let them know what condition the property is in, how big it is and so on. This is because you may be charged more on the day of the clean, or your booking may even be cancelled altogether, if the company finds a much bigger place than they anticipated working in on arrival, or if it is in a particularly bad condition.

Anyone hiring end of tenancy cleaners also needs to understand what the company’s terms and conditions are – the same as when you enter an agreement with any service provider.

If you fail the check out process, for example, and it is suggested that some areas of the place haven’t been cleaned thoroughly enough, most companies won’t go back free of charge. That’s because someone else may have already moved in, or the reported problems may fall outside the guarantee period.

Check also: End of Tenancy Cleaning Prices in London in 2025

You can ask your landlord or estate agent to recommend a cleaning company, as they may well know of a good one, or you can ask friends and family for recommendations. Just be wary of fancy websites that promise a lot but fail to deliver! In particular, be careful with any company that sub-contracts its work to a third party firm.

At Cleaner Cleaner, we provide an impeccable end of tenancy service across London, and have a lot of experience with these jobs in all types of property. Talk to us today.