The Cost of End of Tenancy Cleaning in London – Is It Worth It?

Moving out of a rental property in London comes with many responsibilities, and one of the most important is end of tenancy cleaning. Many landlords and letting agencies require tenants to return the property in a spotless condition, failing which deposit deductions may occur. But with professional cleaning services ranging from £90 to over £500, many tenants wonder: Is it worth it?

In this article, we will break down the cost of end of tenancy cleaning in London, compare the benefits of hiring professionals vs. DIY cleaning, and explore whether paying for a cleaning service is a smart investment.

What Is End of Tenancy Cleaning?

End of tenancy cleaning is a deep cleaning process performed before vacating a rental property. Unlike standard cleaning, this type of service involves:

• Deep cleaning of kitchens, including ovens, hobs, and extractor fans
• Sanitizing bathrooms, removing limescale from sinks, toilets, and showers
• Carpet and upholstery cleaning (often required by landlords)
• Window cleaning (inside and sometimes outside)
• Wall and skirting board wiping
• Furniture dusting and vacuuming (if the property is furnished)

Since landlords expect the property to be returned in its original condition, hiring professional end of tenancy cleaners ensures compliance and reduces the risk of deposit deductions.

How Much Does End of Tenancy Cleaning Cost in London?

The cost of professional end of tenancy cleaning depends on various factors, including property size, additional services, and location within London. Below is an average pricing guide:

Additional Costs for Specific Cleaning Services

While these are standard rates, luxury properties, heavily soiled flats, or last-minute bookings may incur higher fees.

Factors Affecting End of Tenancy Cleaning Costs

1. Size of the Property

Larger properties require more time and effort, leading to higher cleaning costs.

2. Condition of the Property

If the flat is particularly dirty, with stubborn stains or mould issues, professional cleaners may charge extra for deep cleaning services.

3. Extra Cleaning Services

Some landlords demand additional services such as carpet shampooing, external window cleaning, or appliance descaling, which can increase the total bill.

4. Location in London

Cleaning costs tend to be higher in Central London (e.g., Westminster, Kensington, Chelsea) compared to Outer London (e.g., Croydon, Barking, Enfield).

5. Urgency of Booking

Last-minute or same-day cleaning services often come with a premium.

DIY vs. Professional Cleaning – What’s More Cost-Effective?

Many tenants wonder whether they can save money by cleaning the property themselves instead of hiring professionals. Below, we compare the pros and cons of each option:

DIY End of Tenancy Cleaning

✅ Pros:

• Cost-effective (you only spend on cleaning products)
• Full control over the cleaning process
• Can be a feasible option for smaller flats

❌ Cons:

• Extremely time-consuming
• Lack of professional-grade equipment for deep cleaning
• Higher risk of landlord dissatisfaction and deposit deductions
• Cleaning carpets and ovens effectively can be challenging

Professional End of Tenancy Cleaning

✅ Pros:

• Guaranteed high-standard cleaning (reducing deposit disputes)
• Saves time and effort
• Professional cleaners use industrial-strength products for deep cleaning
• Some companies offer a deposit-back guarantee

❌ Cons:

• Costly, especially for larger properties
• Need to research and compare companies to avoid scams

For smaller flats, DIY cleaning may be sufficient if done thoroughly. However, for larger properties or those requiring deep cleaning, hiring professionals is often the safer and more efficient choice.

Is Professional End of Tenancy Cleaning Worth It?

To determine whether hiring professional cleaners is worth the cost, consider these key points:

1. Will It Help You Get Your Full Deposit Back?

• London rental deposits are usually 4-5 weeks’ rent, which means a failure to clean properly can cost you hundreds of pounds.
• If the landlord hires their own cleaner, they may charge significantly more than market rates.

2. How Much Is Your Time Worth?

• Cleaning an entire flat thoroughly can take 6-12 hours, depending on its size.
• If you have work or other commitments, hiring professionals can save you valuable time and effort.

3. Are There Any Mandatory Professional Cleaning Clauses in Your Tenancy Agreement?

• Some landlords legally require professional cleaning service before vacating.
• Always check your tenancy contract to avoid disputes.

4. Are You Willing to Handle a Cleaning Dispute?

• Landlords can be strict with cleanliness standards.
• Hiring a professional service minimizes disputes and increases the chances of a hassle-free deposit return.

How to Save Money on End of Tenancy Cleaning

1. Compare Cleaning Quotes

• Get at least three quotes from different companies.
• Check reviews on Google, Trustpilot, or Yelp before booking.

2. Book the cleaning service in Advance

• Last-minute cleaning services charge higher rates.
• Booking at least a week ahead can secure lower prices.

3. Opt for a Package Deal

• Some companies offer discounts for bundled services (e.g., carpet + upholstery cleaning).

4. Clean Some Areas Yourself

• Reduce costs by handling basic tasks like dusting, vacuuming, and window cleaning.
• Let professionals focus on deep cleaning carpets, ovens, and bathrooms.

5. Check If Your Landlord Has Preferred Cleaners

• Some landlords work with pre-approved cleaning companies.
• Using them may prevent unnecessary disputes.

Final Thoughts – Should You Pay for Professional Cleaning?

While the cost of end of tenancy cleaning in London can be steep, it is often a worthwhile investment. Hiring professional cleaners reduces stress, saves time, and increases the likelihood of getting your full deposit back.

If you have a small, well-maintained property, DIY cleaning may be sufficient. However, for larger properties or strict landlords, professional cleaning eliminates risks and ensures a hassle-free move-out experience.