End-of-tenancy cleaning checklist for Nottingham rental properties

End-of-tenancy cleaning is not simply a matter of working through every room. Landlords and letting agents also need to preserve check-out evidence, distinguish dirt from damage or fair wear and tear, arrange authorised clearance and record the completed work.

This checklist follows three stages:

1. Record the property's condition before anything changes.
2. Clean the agreed areas and refer other work appropriately.
3. Inspect and document the result.

It is written for rental properties in England. It is an operational tool, not legal advice or automatic proof that an outgoing tenant is responsible for a cost.

What standard should an end-of-tenancy clean meet?

The relevant benchmark is normally the property's documented condition at the start of the tenancy, allowing for fair wear and tear—not an arbitrary requirement for every property to receive a professional clean.

Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, a landlord or agent cannot require a tenant to make a separate prohibited payment for professional cleaning or insist that a particular cleaning company is used. This does not prevent a landlord from seeking reasonable costs where reliable evidence shows that the property was returned below the appropriate starting standard. See the current GOV.UK Tenant Fees Act guidance for tenants and the Tenant Fees Act 2019.

Cleaning remains a recurring source of deposit claims. The Deposit Protection Service reported that cleaning represented about 29% of its deposit claims in 2025. That does not mean that about 29% of tenancies ended in a cleaning dispute. See the DPS report on cleaning-related deposit deductions.

Use a status for every issue

A useful checklist should not send every problem to the cleaner. Assign one of these statuses as the property is inspected:

Record the status rather than asking cleaners to conceal or work around an unresolved defect.

Stage 1: before anyone cleans

Cleaning and repairs alter the evidence. Complete the check-out record before work begins wherever practicable.

Preserve the check-out evidence

• ☐Confirm that the tenant has left and that possession and access are properly authorised.
• ☐Inspect with the signed check-in inventory and schedule of condition available.
• ☐Complete a written check-out report.
• ☐Take a wide photograph of every room before taking close-ups.
• ☐Photograph dirt, staining, damage and left items in context.
• ☐Use dated files and label them by room or location.
• ☐Record areas that could not be accessed or inspected.
• ☐Keep relevant tenancy documents and correspondence together.
• ☐Record meter readings and returned keys where these form part of the wider handover.

The DPS check-out guidance describes check-out as a comparison with the tenancy agreement and starting inventory. DPS and Mydeposits' evidence checklist identify check-in and check-out reports, dated photographs, correspondence, invoices and estimates among the evidence that may be relevant to a deposit claim.

Separate dirt, damage and wear

For every reported issue, ask:

1. What did the signed check-in record show?
2. Is the issue removable dirt, deterioration through normal use, accidental damage or a maintenance defect?
3. Is there clear dated evidence of the difference?
4. Is cleaning likely to resolve it without causing damage?
5. Does the issue need a repair or specialist assessment instead?

Do not describe burns, tears, broken fittings, failed seals or lifting floor coverings as cleaning. Equally, avoid treating age-related deterioration as dirt.

Record left belongings before moving them

• ☐Photograph each item and its location.
• ☐Separate possible belongings from obvious cleaning residue.
• ☐Check the tenancy documents, correspondence and agreed handover arrangements.
• ☐Obtain documented authority before clearance.
• ☐Seek appropriate advice if ownership or the right to remove an item is unclear.
• ☐Keep clearance records separate from the cleaning record.

Do not instruct a cleaner to “throw everything away” without establishing authority and the correct disposal route.

Agree the sequence of work

A practical order is usually:

1. Check-out inspection and evidence capture.
2. Authorised clearance.
3. Repairs and decoration that create dust or debris.
4. Main clean.
5. Any agreed carpet, upholstery or specialist treatment.
6. Final quality inspection and completion photographs.

Urgent safety or property-protection work should not be delayed merely to preserve this sequence. Record the condition first where it is safe and reasonable to do so.

Use our void-property cleaning guide to plan the cleaning stage around clearance and repairs.

Define the cleaning scope

Confirm in writing whether the instruction includes:

• ovens, trays, hobs and extractor filters;
• appliance interiors;
• carpet treatment or extraction;
• upholstery and mattresses;
• internal or external glazing;
• blinds, curtains or removable covers;
• balconies, gardens, sheds, garages or bin areas;
• moving furniture or freestanding appliances;
• clearance and waste removal;
• high-level areas;
• completion photographs or a written completion checklist.

An “end-of-tenancy clean” is not a universal specification. List the inclusions and exclusions rather than relying on the service name.

Stage 2: room-by-room cleaning checklist

Only clean materials with suitable products and methods. Follow manufacturer instructions for appliances and finishes. Do not dismantle equipment or move heavy items unless this has been specifically assessed and agreed.

Whole-property checks

• ☐Remove accessible cobwebs and high-level dust where this can be done safely.
• ☐Dust doors, frames, handles and accessible door tops.
• ☐Clean light switches and socket fronts without introducing moisture.
• ☐Wipe skirting boards, ledges and internal window sills.
• ☐Clean accessible radiators externally.
• ☐Wipe shelves, cupboards and drawer interiors.
• ☐Vacuum floor edges, corners and behind accessible doors.
• ☐Mop suitable hard flooring with the correct product.
• ☐Clean internal glazing and tracks if included.
• ☐Check vents and extractor covers within the agreed scope.
• ☐Record persistent odours rather than masking them.
• ☐Record stains or defects that remain after appropriate cleaning.

Kitchen

Work surfaces and fittings

• ☐Degrease worktops using a product suitable for the material.
• ☐Clean splashbacks, tiles and accessible grout.
• ☐Clean and polish the sink and taps.
• ☐Remove limescale where it can be treated without damaging the finish.
• ☐Wipe cupboard doors, handles and plinths.
• ☐Clean cupboard, drawer and shelf interiors.
• ☐Check upper cupboard tops if safely accessible.
• ☐Clean accessible pipework beneath the sink.
• ☐Record leaks, damaged worktops, loose taps and deteriorated sealant for repair.

Oven, hob and extractor

• ☐Confirm that oven cleaning is included.
• ☐Clean the oven interior, shelves, trays and accessible fittings.
• ☐Clean the oven door and glass without dismantling unapproved components.
• ☐Degrease the hob and controls using suitable methods.
• ☐Clean the extractor exterior.
• ☐Clean accessible reusable filters if included and permitted by the manufacturer's instructions.
• ☐Record broken controls, cracked glass or failed equipment for repair.

Supplied appliances

• ☐Empty and clean the fridge interior, shelves, drawers and accessible seals.
• ☐Defrost and clean the freezer if this is included and can be completed safely.
• ☐Leave switched-off cold appliances appropriately ventilated where required.
• ☐Clean the microwave interior, turntable, exterior and controls.
• ☐Clean the washing-machine detergent drawer and accessible door seal.
• ☐Check accessible washing-machine filters only if included and permitted by the instructions.
• ☐Clean the dishwasher interior, racks and accessible filter.
• ☐Clean the tumble-dryer door, accessible lint filter and exterior.
• ☐Record faults, damaged seals, missing components and persistent odours separately.

Behind appliances

• ☐Confirm which freestanding appliances may be moved.
• ☐Assess weight, connections, flooring and available space before moving anything.
• ☐Clean behind and beneath appliances only where access is safe and agreed.
• ☐Do not disconnect gas, fixed electrical or plumbed equipment as part of ordinary cleaning.
• ☐Record inaccessible areas on the completion checklist.

Food and waste

• ☐Photograph food, refuse and left goods before removal.
• ☐Confirm authority to remove them.
• ☐Bag and separate waste appropriately.
• ☐Record clearance as a separate task and cost where applicable.

For the agreed appliance scope and preparation details, see kitchen and appliance cleaning in Nottingham.

Bathroom, shower room and WC

• ☐Clean the bath, basin, shower tray and toilet.
• ☐Descale taps, shower fittings and screens where suitable.
• ☐Clean tiles and accessible grout.
• ☐Clean mirrors, shelves and cabinet interiors.
• ☐Wipe accessible pipework and the toilet base.
• ☐Clean behind the toilet where accessible.
• ☐Remove hair and debris from accessible waste covers.
• ☐Clean extractor covers without dismantling electrical equipment.
• ☐Wipe towel rails and radiator exteriors where safe.
• ☐Mop the floor, including edges and corners.
• ☐Record loose fittings, leaks, failed ventilation and deteriorated sealant for repair.
• ☐Refer persistent or extensive mould for investigation rather than repeatedly wiping over it.

Mould or damp can indicate an underlying condition or repair problem. Government guidance confirms that landlords retain responsibility for specified repairs, including the structure and exterior, sanitary fittings, heating, gas installations and electrical wiring. See GOV.UK guidance on repairs in privately rented property.

Bedrooms

• ☐Dust accessible ledges, skirting and radiator exteriors.
• ☐Clean wardrobes, shelves, rails and drawer interiors.
• ☐Wipe supplied furniture using a suitable product.
• ☐Check beneath and behind movable furniture where agreed.
• ☐Vacuum carpets, including accessible edges and corners.
• ☐Mop suitable hard floors.
• ☐Record mattress or upholstery treatment separately if included.
• ☐Photograph and record marks, stains, burns, tears or broken furniture by location.

Living and dining rooms

• ☐Dust shelves, ledges and accessible fittings.
• ☐Clean cupboards and supplied furniture inside and out.
• ☐Vacuum upholstered furniture if included.
• ☐Check beneath removable cushions.
• ☐Vacuum carpet edges and corners.
• ☐Mop suitable hard flooring.
• ☐Clean internal glazing, tracks and sills if included.
• ☐Record wall damage separately from removable surface dirt.

Halls, landings and stairs

• ☐Dust bannisters, rails and spindles.
• ☐Clean doors, frames and handles.
• ☐Vacuum stair treads, edges and corners.
• ☐Mop suitable hard flooring.
• ☐Clean accessible cupboards and storage areas.
• ☐Check entrance areas for soil, post and left items.
• ☐Record loose rails, damaged nosings or trip hazards for repair.

Floors and carpets

• ☐Identify the floor material before choosing a cleaning method.
• ☐Vacuum carpet edges, corners and thresholds.
• ☐Record individual stains by room and exact location.
• ☐Confirm whether stain treatment or carpet extraction is included.
• ☐Test products appropriately before wider use.
• ☐Allow treated carpets to dry and ventilate as required.
• ☐Mop hard flooring without over-wetting it.
• ☐Record burns, tears, lifting edges, broken tiles and deep scratches as possible repair issues.

A cleaning attempt should not worsen a floor or obscure evidence of permanent damage.

Windows, blinds and curtains

• ☐Confirm whether internal glazing is included.
• ☐Confirm separately whether external glazing can be accessed safely.
• ☐Clean internal glass, frames, sills and accessible tracks as agreed.
• ☐Dust or wipe blinds using a method suitable for the material.
• ☐Record broken blind slats, cords or mechanisms for repair.
• ☐Confirm whether curtain cleaning or laundering is included.
• ☐Do not remove fitted coverings without authority and a clear reinstatement plan.

Outside and communal areas

Only include these areas if they form part of the property and the agreed instruction.

• ☐Check balconies, patios, gardens, sheds and garages for left items.
• ☐Photograph bins and waste before arranging removal.
• ☐Sweep accessible private entrance areas if included.
• ☐Keep private-property tasks separate from communal-area responsibilities.
• ☐Confirm who has authority to instruct work in communal spaces.
• ☐Record damaged fences, gates, paving or outbuildings for repair.
• ☐Use an appropriate authorised route for clearance waste.

Clearance and waste records

Waste removed by a landlord or letting agent while clearing a vacated property is not automatically treated as ordinary household waste for duty-of-care purposes. The government's waste duty of care code of practice explains the responsibilities that apply.

Where a private business transports or handles the waste:

• check the business on the Environment Agency waste carriers, brokers and dealers register;
• describe the waste accurately;
• retain the appropriate transfer documentation;
• keep the carrier's details with the property record; and
• separate the clearance instruction and cost from ordinary cleaning.

Different rules may apply to particular waste streams. Obtain specialist advice where the material may be hazardous.

Stop cleaning and refer the issue

Ordinary cleaners should not be expected to assess or resolve every condition found in a vacated property. Stop, isolate the area where appropriate and obtain competent help for matters such as:

• suspected asbestos-containing materials or damaged unknown materials;
• needles, sharps or drug-related waste;
• bodily fluids or significant biological contamination;
• chemicals or unidentified hazardous substances;
• extensive or recurrent mould and damp;
• significant pest activity or contamination;
• gas smells, damaged gas equipment or suspected gas faults;
• exposed wiring, damaged electrical accessories or signs of overheating;
• active leaks or unsafe sanitary fittings;
• structural damage or unsafe ceilings;
• unsafe work at height; and
• furniture or appliances that cannot be moved using an agreed safe method.

Do not disturb suspected hazardous materials merely to obtain a cleaner photograph. Record what can be seen safely and refer the matter to a suitably competent person.

Stage 3: final quality and evidence check

Inspect against the written scope and starting evidence—not memory alone.

Completion inspection

• ☐Check every included room and task.
• ☐Take a wide completion photograph of each room.
• ☐Take detail photographs of previously reported cleaning issues.
• ☐Record areas that remain inaccessible.
• ☐List excluded tasks and the reason for exclusion.
• ☐Record defects that remained after cleaning.
• ☐Confirm that appliance doors, windows and property doors have been left appropriately.
• ☐Confirm that keys have been handled according to the agreed process.
• ☐Note whether contractors, movers or other people will enter after the clean.
• ☐Arrange a final touch-up if later work creates new dust or debris.

Separate the completion record into four parts

This separation makes it easier to understand what was done, why it was needed and which evidence supports each item.

Keep itemised documents

Retain, as applicable:

• the check-in inventory and schedule of condition;
• the check-out report;
• before-and-after photographs;
• cleaning instructions and agreed exclusions;
• relevant correspondence;
• itemised quotations, estimates and invoices;
• repair or specialist reports; and
• waste-transfer and carrier records.

An invoice can support the amount claimed, but it does not by itself establish that the tenant was responsible. DPS explains the importance of connecting invoices to the tenancy documents, condition reports and photographs in its guidance on invoices and dispute evidence.

If a deposit deduction may be proposed

Before proposing a cleaning deduction, check that:

• the starting cleanliness standard is reliably documented;
• the check-out evidence shows a material difference;
• fair wear and tear has been considered separately;
• the work was reasonably necessary;
• the amount relates to the actual issue rather than an automatic full-property clean;
• cleaning, repair, replacement and clearance costs are not bundled together;
• the tenant has been given a clear explanation and supporting evidence; and
• the deposit scheme's current process and deadlines are followed.

Do not promise that a cleaning invoice will lead to a successful deduction. If the parties disagree, the relevant tenancy deposit protection scheme may assess the evidence.

Information to provide when requesting a quote

A clearer brief reduces assumptions and helps providers identify work that falls outside ordinary cleaning. Supply:

• the property postcode;
• property type and number of rooms;
• whether it is furnished or unfurnished;
• check-out photographs;
• the required completion date and next property milestone;
• access, key and parking arrangements;
• the availability of water and electricity;
• a list of supplied appliances;
• whether oven and appliance interiors are required;
• carpet, upholstery and window requirements;
• left belongings, food or waste;
• known mould, pests or hazardous conditions;
• heavy furniture or appliances that may need moving;
• repairs or decoration planned before or after cleaning; and
• the completion records required.

Ask for exclusions, optional items and clearance costs to be identified separately.

Compare your brief with our guide cleaning prices and starting allowances. Carpet extraction, upholstery cleaning and materials or equipment provision can be quoted for the job. Send photographs separately on WhatsApp at 07971 241120 with your name and property postcode. For branch instructions, see cleaning for landlords and letting agents.

Cleaning checklist summary

For a quick handover, work through these five questions:

1. Has the original condition been recorded? Complete the check-out and photographs before cleaning changes the evidence.
2. Is each issue classified correctly? Mark it as cleaning, repair, specialist work, clearance or outside scope.
3. Is the instruction specific? List appliances, carpets, windows, furniture and external areas individually.
4. Has the result been documented? Capture completion photographs, exclusions and outstanding defects.
5. Can every proposed cost be explained? Connect itemised documents to the condition evidence without assuming tenant responsibility.

For work extending beyond cleaning, use the void-property turnaround checklist to coordinate inspections, repairs and preparation for re-letting. You can also review the tenancy cleaning page and contact Re-Let to request a maintenance quote. Confirm the required scope, inclusions and responsibility for specialist work when requesting the quote.