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

Moving out of a rental property in London comes with important responsibilities—and end of tenancy cleaning is one of the most crucial. Failing to return the property in pristine condition can lead to deductions from your deposit, as many landlords and letting agencies require a professionally cleaned space.

But with end of tenancy cleaning prices ranging from £90 to over £500, many tenants ask: Is hiring professional cleaners really worth it?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the cost of end of tenancy cleaning in London, the key benefits of hiring professionals, how it compares to DIY cleaning, and how to make the smartest decision for your move-out process.

What Is End of Tenancy Cleaning?

End of tenancy cleaning is a deep cleaning service performed before a tenant vacates a rented property. Unlike standard cleaning, this service is designed to meet landlord-level cleanliness standards, ensuring the property is left in its original condition.

Typical tasks include:

• Deep kitchen cleaning (oven, hob, extractor fan)

• Bathroom sanitation and limescale removal

• Carpet and upholstery cleaning

• Internal (and sometimes external) window cleaning

• Skirting board and wall wiping

• Dusting and vacuuming of furniture (if furnished)

Expert Tip: Hiring experienced end of tenancy cleaners significantly reduces the risk of losing your deposit due to cleanliness issues.

Average Cost of End of Tenancy Cleaning in London

Prices vary based on the property size, location, and additional services required. Here’s a general pricing guide:

Standard Cleaning Costs (By Property Size)

Additional Costs for Specific Cleaning Services

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

What Affects the Price of End of Tenancy Cleaning?

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.