If you are preparing for a check-out or handover, an end of tenancy clean is the deep clean completed just before keys are returned or new tenants move in. It goes beyond a routine spruce-up: expect a top-to-bottom clean, appliances degreased, limescale removed and every room reset to the inventory standard. For tenant-side steps, see our Renting Property in London – 2025 Guide.
Average end of tenancy cleaning costs (UK)
Most cleans are priced by property size and condition, amount of bathrooms, plus any add-ons (carpets, upholstery, exterior windows, gardens).
| Property Type | Average Cost |
| Studio Flat | £90 – £150 |
| 1-Bedroom Property | £150 – £250 |
| 2-Bedroom Property | £250 – £350 |
| 3-Bedroom Property | £300 – £400 |
| 4-Bedroom Property | £250 – £500+ |
Why the ranges? London and the South East sit at the higher end. A one-bed can take a 2–3 person team c. 3–6 hours, depending on condition and equipment used, according to EBI’s property management guidance.
Independent UK cost guides suggest a one-bed end of tenancy clean typically falls around £100–£200, with larger homes £300–£500+ when extras are added, based on national averages from independent trade directories
What’s included in a professional end of tenancy clean?
Most reputable firms work to a checklist aligned to check-in inventories. Expect:
- Kitchen: oven, hob, extractor, splashbacks, fridge/freezer, cupboards inside/out, sink and descaling
- Bathrooms: descaling taps and shower screens, grout/tiles, toilets disinfected
- Rooms: dusting, internal windows, skirting, sockets/switches, light fittings, mirrors, door frames
- Floors: vacuum throughout and hard floors mopped
- Final touches: cobweb removal, behind/under furniture (where accessible)
With our end-of-tenancy guidance we stress returning items to their original places per the inventory and meeting minimum cleaning standards for checkout.
Presentation matters for both lets and sales. For quick wins, use our Flat-hunting London tips checklist to align the finish with what viewers expect.
Optional Extras That May Increase the Cost
Sometimes, extra services are required depending on the condition of the property or specific tenancy agreements. These can affect the final price:
| Extra Service | Typical Add-On Cost |
| Professional carpet cleaning | £60 – £120 (depending on rooms) |
| Upholstery cleaning | £30 – £80 |
| External window cleaning | £20 – £60 |
| Garden tidy-up | £40 – £120 |
| Deep stain removal | Varies |
Exact pricing varies by provider, access and condition. Market checks place a three-bed including carpets in the £250–£400 band.
Who pays for end of tenancy cleaning?
Tenants must return the property in the same clean condition as at move-in (allowing for fair wear and tear). Landlords often fund a professional clean when preparing to market a vacant property to set a high standard for photos and viewings.
To avoid disputes, use the inventory and check-in report as the benchmark and keep receipts for any professional work. Where a deposit is held, refunds and deductions are handled through the relevant tenancy deposit scheme; unresolved disputes go to the scheme’s adjudication (or court). Government guidance explains the dispute route and time limits; advice charities note timing varies once both parties agree deductions. If you are moving from clean to sell, this pairs well with a valuation: How long does it take to sell a house and How much is my house worth.
How to pay less and pass checkout
- Work to the inventory: reset each room to the documented condition and layout (a EBI staple).
- Book early: last-minute slots cost more. Book your clean weeks in advance if you can.
- De-scale and degrease first: kitchens and bathrooms drive most re-cleans.
- Carpets: if they were professionally cleaned at check-in (and the contract requires like-for-like), budget for a professional clean on exit.
- Proof: keep dated receipts and photos.
Why use us
We coordinate trusted, insured cleaners against the inventory standard, align with the check-out and key return, and handle any snagging quickly so your deposit return or re-marketing is not delayed. Big-brand agents also emphasise sequencing cleaning with check-out and utilities; we manage this end-to-end so you do not have to.
Quick FAQs
How long does a professional end of tenancy clean take?
Typically 3–6 hours for a one-bed with a 2–3 person team, longer for larger or heavily used properties.
Is carpet cleaning included?
Nearly always an extra unless specified; many landlords and agents expect carpets cleaned if that is how the tenancy started.
What if we disagree about cleaning and the deposit?
Use the tenancy deposit scheme’s dispute service; unresolved issues may be adjudicated.
Can a landlord insist I use their cleaning company?
They cannot compel you to use a named firm, but they can require you to meet the checkout standard. Many tenants choose the recommended provider to match what the inventory clerk expects.
Need help?
We can quote, schedule and supervise a full end of tenancy clean to inventory standard and coordinate carpets, oven deep clean and pet treatments so you minimise the risk of deposit deductions. Ask for our fixed-price menu for studios through to 5-beds in your postcode. If you are weighing a sale or refinance, try our tools: How much is my house worth and Rental Yield Calculator.Landlords and tenants choose Ernest-Brooks International to keep move-outs smooth and compliant. Our team books trusted, insured professionals and aligns the clean with check-out, keys and photography, so your property is handed back clean, compliant and stress-free.
