End of Tenancy Cleaning Checklist – Everything You Need to Get Your Deposit Back

Moving out of a rental property means more than just packing boxes. A deep clean is often your last (and most important) responsibility as a tenant. Do it right, and you’re much more likely to get your full deposit back. Skip it, and you could face expensive deductions.

This end of tenancy cleaning checklist will help you cover all the essentials, whether you’re a tenant moving out or a landlord preparing for new occupants.

Why End of Tenancy Cleaning Is So Important

Most tenancy agreements clearly state that the property must be returned in the same clean condition it was rented in. If it’s not, landlords can charge you for cleaning service and deduct it from your deposit.

Doing a full clean might take a few hours (or even a whole day), but it’s absolutely worth it.

General Cleaning Checklist

Start with the basics that apply to every room. Clean from top to bottom so dust doesn’t undo your work.

• Remove cobwebs from ceilings and corners
• Dust shelves, furniture, curtain rails, and baseboards
• Wipe the tops of doors, picture frames, and light fixtures
• Clean switches, sockets, and doorknobs
• Wash windows inside and out, including sills and frames
• Wipe down walls and remove any marks or stains
• Vacuum all carpets and rugs
• Mop hard floors
• Clean radiators and light fittings
• Empty and clean all bins

Bedrooms and Living Areas

These areas often appear clean but tend to collect hidden dust.

• Vacuum under beds and behind furniture
• Clean and polish mirrors, tables, and decorative items
• Wipe down wardrobes, drawers, and storage units inside and out
• Vacuum and flip mattresses
• Clean underneath sofa cushions
• Wash or vacuum curtains and dust off blinds

Bathroom Cleaning

Bathrooms need extra attention. Mold, mildew, and limescale are common culprits.

• Scrub the toilet, sink, shower, and bath
• Remove limescale from taps and showerheads
• Clean tiles and grout
• Polish mirrors and glass shower screens
• Clean bathroom cabinets and drawers
• Wipe towel rails and radiators
• Clean extractor fans and check drains for clogs

Kitchen Deep Clean

Kitchens are often the most demanding part of the clean, and the most closely inspected.

• Clean the oven inside and out (including racks and trays)
• Degrease the hob, extractor fan, and backsplash
• Empty and clean the fridge and freezer
• Clean cupboards, drawers, and shelves inside and out
• Wipe down all countertops and sink areas
• Clean inside and outside of appliances like the microwave, dishwasher, and washing machine
• Sanitize the bin and remove any rubbish
• Descale taps and remove mold from grout if needed

Furniture and Furnishings

If the property was rented furnished, everything must be spotless.

• Dust and polish all wooden surfaces
• Vacuum sofas, including under cushions
• Remove any visible stains or marks
• Clean metal, glass, or plastic furniture
• Arrange items neatly to show the property well

Carpet and Floor Care

Carpets often trap dust and odors that aren’t visible. If your lease requires it, hire a professional carpet cleaner.

• Vacuum thoroughly, including edges and corners
• Move furniture to clean underneath
• Spot-clean stains
• Steam clean if possible

Windows and Fixtures

It’s easy to forget the small things, but they count.

• Clean window panes, frames, and sills
• Wipe fingerprints from glass
• Dust and clean blinds and curtain rails
• Clean switches, plugs, and handles
• Wipe down skirting boards and radiators
• Check and clean light fixtures

Appliances

Clean every appliance provided by the landlord, inside and out.

Fridge and Freezer

• Defrost and empty completely
• Wipe shelves, drawers, and seals
• Clean behind and underneath

Oven and Microwave

• Remove grease and food debris
• Clean trays, racks, and control knobs
• Wipe rubber seals and exterior surfaces

Dishwasher and Washing Machine

• Clean filters and detergent drawers
• Wipe seals and exterior
• Check for leftover debris inside

Toaster, Kettle, and Other Small Appliances

• Remove crumbs and wipe all surfaces
• Clean grease and dust buildup

Final Touches Before You Go

Don’t overlook these small but important details. They can make the property feel truly clean and ready.

• Remove all rubbish and place it in the correct outside bins
• Clean and disinfect bins
• Check that no drawers, cupboards, or shelves were forgotten
• Walk through with the checklist and touch up any missed areas
• Take dated photos as proof of the property’s condition

Should You Hire a Professional Cleaner?

If you’re short on time or the lease requires it, professional cleaning services might be a smart investment. They’re especially useful for carpets, ovens, and large properties. Always keep a receipt as proof, in case your landlord asks.

Leaving a property clean shows respect for your rental agreement and helps you keep your money where it belongs: in your pocket. With this checklist, you can confidently return the keys knowing everything is in order.