Moving out of a rented property in 2026? Whether you’re based anywhere across London, end of tenancy cleaning remains the number one reason tenants lose part – or all – of their deposit.
This updated 2026 guide includes UK deposit rules, what landlords expect,
and the most complete, agent-approved cleaning checklist, designed using real London inspections.
What Is End of Tenancy Cleaning in 2026?
End of tenancy cleaning is a detailed top-to-bottom clean required when leaving a rented property. It must match the standard documented in your inventory report.
Landlords can legally deduct cleaning fees under UK tenancy schemes:
According to these schemes, poor cleaning remains the most frequent reason for withheld deposits.
Why Cleaning Is the #1 Cause of Deposit Deductions (UK
2026)
Based on updated TDS data (2025–2026):
67% of deposit disputes are cleaning-related
Most common problems:
- greasy oven
- mould in bathroom
- stained carpets
- dusty skirting boards
- dirty fridge/freezer
- fingerprints & marks
- missed areas behind furniture
THE ULTIMATE END OF TENANCY CLEANING
CHECKLIST (2026 LONDON EDITION)
This list is based on 200+ real inspections from London letting agents.
Kitchen Cleaning Checklist
- Deep clean oven (glass, racks, trays, fan)
- Clean hob and splashback
- Extractor fan & filter degreasing
- Cupboards inside/out
- Fridge + freezer (defrost 12 hours beforehand)
- Microwave inside/out
- Washing machine drawer + rubber seal
- Dishwasher filter and edges
- Limescale removal (sink, taps)
- Tile cleaning
- Skirting boards wiped
- Floors vacuumed & mopped
- Clean windows & sills
For detailed guidance on carpet and upholstery maintenance, explore:
Read also: How to Clean Your Wool Rug at Home
Bathroom Cleaning Checklist
- Full limescale removal from taps & shower screen
- Deep clean toilet (including behind base)
- Scrub tiles & grout
- Remove mould from silicone
- Clean extractor fan
- Polish mirrors
- Disinfect bath & sink
- Mop floor
Useful Blog for Bathroom Areas: How To Remove Musty Mold and Mildew Smells Around Your Home
Bedrooms & Living Areas
- Dust all surfaces & furniture
- Clean skirting boards
- Wipe internal doors
- Clean wardrobes inside/out
- Sockets & switches cleaned
- Blinds dusted
- Cobwebs removed
- Windows cleaned
- Vacuum carpets (edges included)
- Optional: steam carpet cleaning
Useful Blog for Bedrooms & Living Areas How to Get Ink Out of Carpet
Book your End of Tenancy Cleaning
We are happy to offer you some of the most competitive prices in the industry.
Hallways & Entrance Areas
- Hoover & mop floors
- Clean front door
- Light fixtures cleaned
- Dust bannisters
- Clean storage cupboards
Most Common Deposit Deduction Reasons in 2026
- Dirty oven
- Stained carpets
- Hard water limescale
- Skirting boards & neglected corners
- Mould in bathroom
- Missed spots behind furniture
- Marks on walls or switches
If you want more stain-removal advice: How to Safely Remove Dog Urine Stains from Your Carpet in 7 Simple Steps
End of Tenancy Cleaning Costs in London (2026 Update)
Typical pricing in London:
- Studio: from £129
- 1 Bedroom: from £149
- 2 Bedroom: from £179
- 3 Bedroom: from £219
- 4 Bedrooms: from £255
- 5 or more bedrooms- please contact us
Upholstery Cleaning London: Upholstery Cleaning
DIY vs Professional End of Tenancy Cleaning (2026) DIY
-
cheaper
easy to miss details
no invoice
landlords often reject DIY cleaning
Professionals
-
agent-approved checklist
professional equipment
re-clean guarantee
oven & appliance cleaning included
optional carpet steam cleaning
How to Prepare for End of Tenancy Cleaning
- Remove personal belongings
- Defrost freezer
- Take pictures for your own record
- Report damages
- Provide access keys
- Move furniture if needed
Why Choose South West Cleaners (London, 2026)
South West Cleaners provides a full, agent-approved end of tenancy cleaning service across London.
We offer:
- professionally trained teams
- eco-friendly materials
- industry-grade equipment
- re-clean guarantee
- optional carpet & upholstery cleaning
Useful Carpet Cleaning Tips
How to Get Ink Out of Carpet
Whether your child’s creative masterpiece resulted in an ink stain, or you accidentally stepped on a pen, a stubborn ink stain on your carpet doesn’t have to ruin its appearance. Removing ink from...
How to Get Hair Dye Out of Carpet
At South West Cleaners, we understand that hair dyeing can be an exciting yet messy process. While many people take precautions by covering carpets with protective sheets or plastic, accidents still...
How to Safely Remove Dog Urine Stains from Your Carpet in 7 Simple Steps
Having a dog brings so much joy to your life, but it also comes with its challenges—one of which is dealing with the occasional urine stain. Whether you have a puppy in training or an older dog...
