Is Hiring Professional End of Tenancy Cleaners Worth It?
May 20
3 min read
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Moving out of a rental property in London comes with a long checklist. One of the most important tasks is cleaning the home before handing back the keys. Whether you're a first-time renter or a seasoned mover, you may be wondering: is it worth hiring professional end of tenancy cleaners? Here’s what you need to know.
What Is End of Tenancy Cleaning?
End of tenancy cleaning is a deep and thorough clean of a rented property. It aims to restore the home to the condition it was in when the tenancy began. This cleaning goes beyond standard dusting and vacuuming.
Areas often overlooked in day-to-day upkeep include:
Inside kitchen appliances
Skirting boards
Windows
Light fittings
Tenants are expected to return the property in a condition similar to when they moved in, accounting for normal wear and tear. This isn’t just a courtesy; it’s a condition for getting your full deposit back.
Is a Professional Clean Required?
Since the Tenant Fees Act 2019 came into effect, landlords can no longer require tenants to pay for professional cleaning. However, they can deduct from your deposit if the property isn’t cleaned to the expected standard.
This creates a grey area. While you're not legally obligated to hire professionals, failing to meet the landlord's expectations could result in deposit deductions. So, the question shifts from legality to practicality.
DIY vs. Professional Cleaning
Cleaning the property yourself is the cheaper option. However, it requires time, energy, and confidence. Here are some risks of DIY cleaning:
It's time-consuming and exhausting, especially with packing and coordinating a move.
You may lack the necessary tools or knowledge to deep clean ovens, carpets, or remove limescale.
Even your best efforts might fall short of what is expected by the letting agent. Disputes over cleaning are among the most common reasons for deposit deductions.
In contrast, hiring professionals offers several benefits:
High-quality results with industrial-grade products
Guaranteed cleaning standards (many companies provide re-cleaning if issues arise)
Less stress during an already hectic time
Reddit users often share horror stories of DIY cleaning attempts. Some have lost their deposits and even faced relationship strain! The general consensus is clear; it might not be worth the stress.
What Does a Professional End of Tenancy Clean Include?
Professional cleaners usually follow a detailed checklist. This may include:
Deep cleaning of kitchen appliances (oven, hob, fridge, extractor)
Bathroom sanitation and mold removal
Carpet and upholstery cleaning
Interior window cleaning
Skirting boards, door frames, switches, and sockets
Dusting furniture, shelves, and hidden areas
They often clean spots you might overlook — like inside the washing machine drawer or behind heavy furniture. This level of detail can be crucial for your deposit return.
How Much Does It Cost in London?
Prices for end of tenancy cleaning in Greater London vary based on property size and required services. Here’s a breakdown:
Studio: £114–£192
1-bed flat: £156–£240
2-bed flat: £192–£300
3-bed home: £264–£420+
Add-ons such as carpet, oven, and window cleaning typically incur extra charges. For larger homes or urgent bookings, costs can exceed £600.
Is It Worth It?
If you value your time, wish to avoid disputes, or lack the tools for a deep clean, then yes, it’s likely worth the investment. Most tenants, especially in high-demand areas like Bromley, Beckenham, Chislehurst, and South East London, find a professional clean a small price to pay for peace of mind and a full deposit refund.
Final Tips for a Successful Move
Use your move-in inventory as a cleaning checklist. Take before and after photos, as they can help resolve disputes with your landlord. This evidence serves as a solid defense in case issues arise.
But if you're short on time or merely want it done right, hiring a professional local team like Cleaners2Match — trusted across Bromley, Beckenham, Chislehurst, South East London, and Kent might be the best decision.
Ready to get started? Click here to get a free end of tenancy cleaning quote and book your service today. We proudly serve homes across Bromley, Beckenham, and Chislehurst, guaranteeing satisfaction. Request your quote now.
