Don’t let dirt lead to deposit deductions

Are you never happier than when your home is spotless or are you a tad on the slovenly side? If you own your home, this question is elementary but if you live in a rented property, the level of dirt you’re comfortable with can affect whether you get your full deposit back.  

When it comes to checking out at the end of a tenancy, the rule of thumb is ‘leave it as you found it’ and for some tenants, there will be a period of scrubbing, sweeping, dusting and degreasing ahead.  

Dirt can lead to deposit deductions

A landlord is fully within their rights to withhold some or all of the deposit if they can prove the standard of cleanliness on check out doesn’t match how the property was handed over. Why? Any dirt that needs attention and prevents the property from being re-let will cost the landlord time and money.  

Issues that warrant a deduction can include, among others, red wine stains on a carpet, a build-up of limescale on a shower screen, black mould on the seal of a washing machine and pen marks on a wall.  

Where to start If your end of tenancy is looming and it’s not clear where you should concentrate your cleaning efforts, a survey by the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TSD) revealed the dirtiest rooms found by landlords at the end of a tenancy.  

The poll found the kitchen was the grubbiest space, with 84% of the 600 landlords questioned commenting that this was the most unclean room. The kitchen was followed by bathrooms.   

How to tackle dust and dirt

You should use your tenancy’s paperwork to guide you. The check in and inventory reports (or a Schedule of Condition report) are essential to have to hand – they will have written descriptions and photographic evidence of the cleanliness inside the property on day one.  

Use these documents as you methodically work from room-to-room, identifying what needs a deep clean, what may need a professional service and what can be cleaned just before moving out. Don’t forget to inspect appliances, hallways, cupboards, gardens, balconies and outbuildings.  

Leave enough time to clean the property and have the right tools for the job. This may include products specifically designed to remove limescale, pet hair, grease, smears and mould. If scuffs and marks don't come off paintwork with a gentle wipe down, you may need to repaint (but always seek permission first from the landlord or their letting agent).  

Leave it to the professionals

If you're doubting your ability to return the property to its original condition, you may consider a professional cleaning company. Many will offer a specific end-of-tenancy deep clean, and the staff will know all the areas that will be inspected at check out. If you book a professional deep clean, it’s helpful to give the cleaners the check in and inventory reports.   

If you would like copies of your tenancy documents, please contact us. We can also advise you on cleaning schedules should you need assistance.