Price Breakdown: The Real Cost of End of Tenancy Cleaning in UK

We appreciate your concern about the price before opting for an end-of-tenancy clean. Knowing the price will help you budget properly, allow you to compare prices & services, and influence your decision on whether to DIY or hire professionals.

So, the most important question is- how much is an end of tenancy clean?

The cost of an end-of-tenancy clean in the UK varies depending on the size and condition of the property. The range can be somewhere between £150 to £400 and even higher than that. A larger house can cost more. Prices also depend on the location and whether you need extra services like carpet or oven cleaning.

Stick around to learn more about the prices and how you can get the best deal.

End of Tenancy Cleaning; How Does It Differ From Normal Cleaning?

Right, let’s break it down nice and simple. When we talk about the difference between end-of-tenancy cleaning and your regular, everyday cleaning, we’re looking at two very different beasts.

Your regular cleaning is all about keeping the place looking decent and feeling comfortable. It’s the weekly tidy-up that involves dusting, hoovering, and maybe a bit of a mop here and there. It’s what you do to make sure you’re not living in a mess and can find your socks when you need them.

Now, end-of-tenancy cleaning is on a whole other level. Think of it as your regular clean’s much tougher cousin. It’s what you do when your tenancy’s up and you’re moving out. It’s about leaving the place spotless, almost as if no one’s lived there.

We’re talking about deep cleaning the carpets, scrubbing the kitchen and bathroom until they shine, cleaning the windows, and getting into all the corners we usually skip during a regular clean.

The main reason for this difference is the deposit you put down when you moved in. To get that back, you need to hand over the property in tip-top shape. It’s not just about being tidy; it’s about undoing all the living you’ve done there. Plus, it’s often a requirement in your tenancy agreement.

So, in short, your regular clean is about making your home nice for you, while the end-of-tenancy clean is about meeting those high standards set in your lease, ensuring the place is ready for the next tenants, and getting your deposit back without a hitch.

Also Read: How To Clean Wax Warmer

How Much Is An End Of Tenancy Clean?

The cost for a professional end-of-tenancy clean varies, mostly down to how big your digs are and how many rooms need sprucing up. On average, you’ll be shelling out anywhere between £180 and a bit over £415.

How long the clean takes can also throw the price up or down a bit. Smaller spots could be done in a brisk 1-2 hours, while larger homes might need up to 5 hours of elbow grease.

Let’s lay out the going rates for a spick and span send-off across different types of homes:

Please note that these figures are just a rough guide. You’ll want to get a quote from a local cleaner to know exactly what you’ll be paying.

Factors Influencing The Cost of An End Of Tenancy Clean

When you’re getting to the end of your lease, you might need to sort out a good clean before you move on. The cost can go up or down based on a few things.

Property Size and Type

It stands to reason, doesn’t it? A larger property with more rooms to clean is going to cost you more.

A studio or a one-bed flat is on the lower end of the scale, whereas a big old house with several bedrooms will have you digging deeper into your pockets. And it’s not just the number of rooms; houses often have other spaces like gardens or patios that might need a tidy, which apartments typically don’t have.

Condition of the Property

If you’ve been on top of your cleaning game and the place is looking neat, the cleaners won’t have as much to do, and that’ll keep the cost down.

But let’s be honest, if the place is looking a bit rough around the edges and the dirt’s been piling up for a while, it’s going to take a lot more scrubbing. That means more time, more cleaning products, and yes, more money.

Geographic Location

Where your home is located in the UK can make a fair difference. In big cities, especially down in London, you’ll find the cost is higher.

It’s just the way it is – life’s pricier in the city. Move out to smaller towns or rural areas, and you’re likely to see the price tag shrink a bit.

Additional Services

The basics get you so far, but sometimes you need that extra bit of cleaning magic.

Carpet cleaning, getting the oven to look like it’s never been used, or making sure the windows are so clean the birds have to be careful – these special jobs require special skills and equipment, and they’ll add a bit to your final bill.

Market Rates: Freelancers vs. Professional Companies

You’ve got options here. Freelancers might offer you a better deal, and they’re great if you’re not after anything too fancy.

But sometimes you want that peace of mind that comes with hiring a professional company. They’ve often got insurance, and trained staff, and they can handle the tough stuff. They might charge more, but sometimes it’s worth it for the hassle they save you.

What are the Supply Costs of End of Tenancy Cleaning?

When you’re sorting out an end-of-tenancy clean, there’s more to think about than just the elbow grease. You’ve got to consider the stuff the cleaners use to get the place sparkling. We’re talking about the supply costs, and they can vary.

Basic Cleaning Supplies

Most cleaning crews come ready with their arsenal of basic supplies. This includes all-purpose cleaners, glass sprays, sponges, scrubbers, and mops.

These are the tools of the trade for tackling everyday grime and won’t add much to your cost. They’re typically factored into the standard fee, so you won’t see them itemised on your bill.

Specialised Equipment

Now, for the tougher jobs, cleaners need to bring out the big guns.

Carpet cleaners, steam machines, and powerful vacuums all fall into this category. These aren’t your average household gadgets and can get a bit pricey. If your place needs special attention, expect the quote to reflect the cost of using this specialised equipment.

Eco-Friendly Products

If you’re keen on keeping things green, eco-friendly products are the way to go. They’re better for the environment and great for homes with pets or little ones.

These products often cost a bit more than traditional cleaners, so if you prefer your cleaning to be kind to Mother Earth, it might nudge the cost up slightly.

Heavy-Duty Solutions

Do you have some serious stains or a kitchen that’s seen one too many roast dinners?

Heavy-duty cleaning solutions are what you’ll need. These are stronger than your usual sprays and potions and are designed to tackle the toughest spots. Because they’re more potent (and often more expensive), they can add a bit more to the overall price.

Wear and Tear

Cleaning equipment doesn’t last forever. Now and then, things need fixing or replacing. The cost of keeping all the gear in top shape can sneak into your bill too. It’s not just about the supplies used during your cleaning; it’s about making sure the equipment lasts for cleans to come.

What are the Additional Costs of End of Tenancy Cleaning?

When you’re looking to get your place cleaned at the end of your tenancy, there are a couple of extra costs that might pop up, over and above the usual.

Carpet Cleaning: Firstly, if your carpets have had a bit of a tough time and need a deep clean, that’s an extra. Carpet cleaning is a specialist job and needs a special kit to get all the dirt out.

Oven Cleaning: Ovens can be a nightmare to clean if they’ve had a good few roasts. A lot of end-of-tenancy cleans will charge extra to get your oven sparkling because it takes a bit more work and some pretty strong cleaning stuff.

Window Cleaning: Now, windows – they’re often not included in the basic cleaning. If you want the windows done inside and out, you’ll likely have to cough up a bit more.

External Areas: Got a garden or a driveway? These bits might need a tidy too, and that’s not usually part of the standard cleaning service. So, if you need the outside looking smart, that’ll be on top of the regular cost.

Last-Minute Booking: If you’ve left it late and need someone to clean up sharpish, you might have to pay a bit extra for a rush job.

How to Save Money on End-Tenancy Cleaning Services

Saving a few quid on your end-of-tenancy cleaning can be a doddle if you know the tricks. Here’s how you can keep your costs down without skimping on quality.

Do a Bit Yourself: Get stuck in before the cleaners turn up. If you can take care of the easier tasks like clearing out your stuff and giving the place a quick once-over, the cleaners can get straight to the nitty-gritty. This means they’ll spend less time and you’ll spend less money.

Shop Around: Don’t just go with the first cleaning service you find. Have a butcher’s at different quotes, chat with a few companies, and see who offers the best bang for your buck. Remember, the cheapest might not always be the best, but there’s no harm in looking for a good deal.

Schedule Wisely: Timing’s everything. If you book your clean well in advance, you could snag a better rate. Last-minute rushes can cost you more, so plan.

Bulk Services: Sometimes you can save a bit if you get a package deal. If you need extras like oven or carpet cleaning, ask if there’s a discount for bundling these services in with your end-of-tenancy cleaning.

Check What’s Included: Be clear on what the cleaning service covers. You don’t want to pay for extras you don’t need. At the same time, make sure all the basics are covered so you won’t have to call them back for a job half done.

Keep it Regular: If you’ve kept the place tidy with regular cleans during your stay, the end-of-tenancy clean should be easier and lighter on your wallet, too.

Things to Consider When Hiring End-of-Tenancy Cleaners

Hiring the right crew to get your end-of-tenancy clean done is one of the most important steps of the process. It’s the difference between sailing through your check-out inspection and getting mired in disputes over your deposit. Here’s what to weigh up:

Reputation and Reviews: A cleaner’s track record can tell you loads. Look for services with top-notch reviews. A bunch of happy former clients usually means you’re onto a good thing.

Insurance and Guarantees: Make sure whoever you’re hiring has insurance. Accidents happen, and you don’t want to be out of pocket if something goes awry. Also, check if they offer a guarantee. Some places will come back and sort any bits they missed the first time around, at no extra charge.

Checklist: Get a detailed checklist of what the clean includes. You want to make sure they’re hitting every spot your landlord’s going to check. No nasty surprises come inspection time!

Cost: Don’t just go for cheap and cheerful. It might save you now, but cost you later if the job’s not up to scratch. That said, you don’t want to be overpaying, so get a few quotes to compare.

Products and Equipment: Ask about their cleaning products and equipment. If you’re eco-minded, look for services that use green products. And they should be using professional-grade equipment, so you know they can handle the toughest spots.

Availability and Flexibility: Can they work with your schedule? You’ll need the place cleaned after you’ve moved out but before you hand the keys back. Plus, if you need them to come back, make sure they can fit you in promptly.

Experience with Rentals: Some cleaners specialise in rentals and know exactly what landlords look for. If they’ve got this sort of experience, it’s a good sign.

FAQs

How long should an end-of-tenancy clean take?

An end-of-tenancy clean varies in time; it depends on the property size and its condition. For a smaller place like a studio or one-bedroom flat, it might take around 1-2 hours. A larger home, like a four-bedroom house, could need 4-5 hours. If the place is well-kept, it’ll be quicker. But if it’s a bit worse for wear, expect the cleaning to take longer.

Can a landlord take a deposit for cleaning?

Yes, a landlord can deduct from your deposit for cleaning if the property isn’t returned in the same condition as when you moved in, allowing for fair wear and tear.

To avoid disputes, check your tenancy agreement and compare the property’s condition against the inventory report from when you moved in. Always aim to leave the property tidy to get your full deposit back.

Last Thoughts

Now you know how much is an end of tenancy clean. The cost of an end-of-tenancy is influenced by the size of your place, its condition, and any extra cleaning services you might need. Prices vary from around £150 for smaller flats to £400 or more for larger houses. To ensure you get a fair deal, it’s wise to shop around for quotes. Remember, investing in a good clean can help secure the return of your deposit, making it money well spent.