Cleaning is the most common reason for deposit deductions in England. The good news is that most deductions come from the same handful of areas, so a methodical clean removes the risk.
Kitchen
Agents open the oven first. Carbon on the door glass and grease on the racks are the most frequent notes on check-out reports. Next come the extractor filter, the inside of cupboards and the seal around the fridge door.
Bathroom
Limescale on taps, shower screens and around the plughole is the second big one. Check the grout, the extractor fan cover and behind the toilet.
Everywhere else
Skirting boards, the tops of doors and wardrobes, light switches, radiators and window sills. Inventory clerks run a finger along these, so dust shows up immediately.
Compare with your check-in inventory
Your landlord can only expect the property back in the condition it was in at the start, allowing for fair wear and tear. Read your check-in inventory and photograph each room when you finish.
When to book a professional
If you are short on time, a professional end of tenancy clean with a re-clean guarantee is usually cheaper than a deduction. Book it for the day before your check-out so any feedback can be fixed quickly.
