Moving house is one of life’s most stressful events. Between packing, organising removals, and notifying utilities, the last thing most tenants want to think about is scrubbing the oven or polishing skirting boards. Yet, for tenants across London—and especially here in Fulham—end of tenancy cleaning is one of the biggest factors that determines whether or not you get your deposit back in full.
At Maid in Fulham, we’ve helped hundreds of tenants hand over spotless properties that satisfy even the strictest landlords and letting agents. In this detailed guide, we’ll break down exactly what end of tenancy cleaning involves, why it matters, and provide you with a complete checklist to make sure you’re not leaving money behind when you move.
Why End of Tenancy Cleaning is So Important
Most tenancy agreements in the UK include a clause that requires the tenant to return the property in the same condition as when they moved in—allowing for “fair wear and tear.” If the landlord or letting agent feels the property hasn’t been cleaned properly, they can deduct cleaning costs from your deposit.
In London, where deposits can run into thousands of pounds, failing to clean thoroughly could cost you far more than hiring professionals in the first place.
End of tenancy cleaning is not the same as regular weekly cleaning. It’s a deep, top-to-bottom service that covers everything from inside cupboards to behind appliances, areas most tenants rarely clean during day-to-day life.
DIY vs Professional End of Tenancy Cleaning
You may be wondering whether you can handle the clean yourself or if you should hire professionals.
DIY Cleaning
DIY cleaning can work if you have plenty of time, the right cleaning products, and a detailed checklist. However, it is extremely demanding and easy to overlook important areas.
Professional Cleaning
Professional cleaning guarantees attention to detail, industrial-grade products, and results that meet letting agent standards. At Maid in Fulham, we even work with checklists approved by London’s top estate agents, so you can move with confidence.
If your deposit is large, professional cleaning is often the cheaper option compared to the risk of deductions.
The Complete End of Tenancy Cleaning Checklist
Below is the comprehensive checklist our cleaning team at Maid in Fulham follows. Whether you decide to hire professionals or attempt the clean yourself, these are the areas you cannot afford to skip.
Kitchen
Kitchens are one of the hardest areas to tackle at the end of a tenancy. Grease, food splashes, and limescale build up over time, and landlords will inspect them closely.
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Clean inside and outside all cupboards and drawers
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Degrease and polish oven, hob, and extractor fan
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Wipe down fridge, freezer, microwave, dishwasher, and washing machine—inside and out
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Remove limescale from sinks, taps, and draining boards
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Clean tiles, grout, and backsplashes
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Mop and disinfect kitchen floors
Bathrooms
Bathrooms are another high-inspection zone. No landlord wants to inherit mould or limescale.
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Scrub toilets, bathtubs, showers, basins, and tiles
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Remove limescale from taps, showerheads, and screens
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Clean mirrors, glass, and chrome fittings until streak-free
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Wipe extractor fans and air vents
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Mop and disinfect floors
Bedrooms and Living Areas
Though easier than kitchens and bathrooms, living areas still require thorough attention.
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Dust and wipe all surfaces, including skirting boards, doors, and window sills
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Vacuum carpets, under furniture, and behind radiators
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Clean wardrobes, cupboards, and drawers
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Wipe light switches, sockets, and handles
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Remove cobwebs from ceilings and corners
Floors and Carpets
Floors carry the daily wear and tear of a tenancy.
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Vacuum all carpets thoroughly, including edges and corners
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Mop and disinfect hard floors with the correct product
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Spot-clean stains or consider professional carpet cleaning if needed
Windows and Glass
Clean, streak-free windows make a huge difference.
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Wash interior glass thoroughly
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Wipe down window sills and frames
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Clean patio doors and any internal glass
Commonly Overlooked Areas in End of Tenancy Cleaning
Even diligent tenants often miss these:
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Behind and under large appliances
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Skirting boards and dado rails
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Light fixtures and ceiling fans
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Air vents and extractor fans
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Inside bins and bin cupboards
At Maid in Fulham, we train our cleaners to focus on these easily forgotten details, ensuring your property passes inspection the first time.
How Long Does End of Tenancy Cleaning Take?
The time required depends on the size and condition of your property.
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Studio flat: 3–4 hours
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1-bedroom flat: 4–5 hours
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2-bedroom house: 5–7 hours
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3-bedroom house: 7–9 hours
Larger properties with multiple bathrooms can take a full day. Our professional team brings the right number of cleaners to finish efficiently without compromising quality.
Why Choose Maid in Fulham for End of Tenancy Cleaning?
There are dozens of cleaning companies in London, but Maid in Fulham stands out for several reasons.
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Local expertise – We specialise in Fulham and surrounding areas
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Agent-approved checklists – Our cleaning aligns with what London’s biggest agencies require
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Eco-friendly products – Safe for families, pets, and the environment
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Deposit protection – Our thorough approach helps secure the return of your full deposit
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Peace of mind guarantee – If you’re not satisfied, contact us within 24 hours, and we’ll return at no extra cost
Tips to Prepare for an End of Tenancy Clean
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Remove all personal belongings before cleaners arrive
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Defrost and empty freezers
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Inform your landlord of any damages in advance
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Keep utilities connected so cleaners can use hot water and electricity
Final Thoughts
Moving out doesn’t have to be stressful—at least not when it comes to cleaning. With the right preparation or the help of professionals like Maid in Fulham, you can hand over your keys with confidence and walk away with your full deposit.
Ready to move out? Don’t risk losing your deposit. Book Maid in Fulham’s End of Tenancy Cleaning Services today and ensure a smooth, stress-free move.
Call us now for a free quote or book online in minutes.
