What Does End of Tenancy Cleaning Include

Moving out of a rented property can be stressful. Between packing boxes, arranging removals, and handling paperwork, cleaning is often the biggest challenge. One of the most common questions tenants ask is what does end of tenancy cleaning include and whether it is different from normal house cleaning.
The short answer is yes. End of tenancy cleaning is a detailed deep clean designed to return a property to a high standard before the tenant leaves. Landlords and letting agents often expect the property to be left clean and presentable, making this type of cleaning an important part of the moving process.
At Leila & Dave's Cleaning Services, we help tenants, landlords, and letting agents across Portsmouth with professional end of tenancy cleaning services that cover every important area of the property.
What End of Tenancy Cleaning Means
Before looking at the end of tenancy cleaning, it is important to understand what this service is.
End of tenancy cleaning is a comprehensive deep clean carried out when a tenant moves out of a property. The goal is to restore the property to a clean condition for the next tenant or for landlord inspections.
Unlike regular cleaning, end of tenancy cleaning focuses on areas that may have been overlooked during everyday cleaning. This includes kitchen appliances, cupboards, skirting boards, doors, switches, and bathrooms.
The service is designed to remove dirt, grease, dust, stains, and built up grime from throughout the property.
Rooms Covered in a Full Clean
A common question when asking what does end of tenancy cleaning include is whether every room is covered.
A professional end of tenancy clean usually includes:
- Kitchen
- Bathrooms
- Living rooms
- Dining rooms
- Bedrooms
- Hallways
- Staircases
- Utility rooms
- Internal windows
- Doors and frames
- Skirting boards
- Light switches
Every accessible area is cleaned thoroughly to create a fresh and hygienic environment.
Kitchen Cleaning Checklist
The kitchen is often the most heavily used room in a property. Because of this, it receives special attention during end of tenancy cleaning.
When discussing what does end of tenancy cleaning include, kitchen cleaning is usually one of the largest parts of the service.
Kitchen Surfaces
Professional cleaners typically clean:
- Worktops
- Splashbacks
- Sink and taps
- Tiles
- Kitchen units
- Handles
- Shelving
Grease, food residue, and stains are removed to leave surfaces looking fresh and hygienic.
Oven Cleaning
The oven is one of the most important items checked during inspections.
Cleaning often includes:
- Oven door
- Interior racks
- Trays
- Grill
- Hob surface
Removing burnt food and grease helps restore the appliance to a cleaner condition.
Fridge and Freezer
If the appliance has been defrosted beforehand, cleaners can usually clean:
- Shelves
- Drawers
- Door compartments
- Internal surfaces
Kitchen Floor
Kitchen floors are vacuumed and mopped to remove dirt, crumbs, grease, and marks.
Bathroom Cleaning Checklist
Bathrooms require detailed cleaning because they can quickly develop limescale, soap scum, and moisture related stains.
When people ask what does end of tenancy cleaning include, bathroom cleaning is a key part of the answer.
Toilet Cleaning
The toilet is cleaned inside and outside, including:
- Seat
- Lid
- Bowl
- Base
Shower and Bath Cleaning
Professional cleaning usually covers:
- Shower screens
- Shower trays
- Baths
- Tiles
- Grouting
Limescale and soap residue are removed wherever possible.
Sink and Taps
Cleaners remove:
- Water marks
- Toothpaste residue
- Soap deposits
Mirrors
Mirrors are polished to achieve a streak free finish.
Bathroom Floors
Bathroom floors are vacuumed and mopped, paying attention to corners and edges.
Living Room and Bedroom Cleaning
Living rooms and bedrooms may appear clean on the surface, but they often collect dust in hidden areas.
A complete answer to what does end of tenancy cleaning include should always cover these important rooms.
Dusting
Dust is removed from:
- Shelves
- Window sills
- Furniture surfaces
- Skirting boards
- Light fittings
Floors
Depending on the flooring type:
- Carpets are vacuumed thoroughly
- Hard floors are vacuumed and mopped
Windows
Internal glass surfaces are cleaned where accessible.
Wardrobes and Storage Areas
Built in storage spaces are cleaned inside and outside.
Cobweb Removal
Ceilings and corners are checked and cleaned to remove cobwebs.
Skirting Boards, Doors, and Switches
One of the biggest differences between regular cleaning and end of tenancy cleaning is the attention given to smaller details.
Many people asking what does end of tenancy cleaning include are surprised by how much detail is involved.
Skirting Boards
Skirting boards are dusted and wiped to remove marks and dirt.
Doors
Internal doors are cleaned to remove fingerprints, dust, and light marks.
Door Frames
Frames and edges are cleaned to improve the overall appearance of each room.
Light Switches
Switches are wiped and sanitised where appropriate.
Handles
Door handles and cupboard handles are cleaned to remove dirt and fingerprints.
These small details often make a big difference during property inspections.
Inside Cupboards and Appliances
A professional service does not focus only on visible areas.
An important part of what does end of tenancy cleaning include involves cleaning storage spaces and appliances.
Kitchen Cupboards
Cleaners generally wipe:
- Interior shelves
- Doors
- Handles
- Drawers
Wardrobes
Wardrobes are cleaned inside and out.
Washing Machine Exterior
The exterior of the appliance is usually wiped and cleaned.
Dishwasher Exterior
The exterior is cleaned and polished where appropriate.
Extractor Fans
Accessible extractor fan surfaces are cleaned to remove grease and dust.
What Is Usually Not Included
Although end of tenancy cleaning is comprehensive, there are some tasks that may not be included unless requested separately.
These can include:
- Exterior window cleaning above ground level
- Garden maintenance
- Carpet stain removal requiring specialist treatment
- Wall painting
- Property repairs
- Pest control
- Waste removal
- Deep mould treatment
- Loft cleaning
Because every company is different, it is always worth confirming exactly what does end of tenancy cleaning include before booking.
At Leila & Dave's Cleaning Services, we clearly explain what is covered so customers know exactly what to expect.
Why This Matters for Tenants in Portsmouth
Understanding what does end of tenancy cleaning include is important for tenants throughout Portsmouth.
Many tenancy agreements require tenants to leave the property in a clean condition. Failure to do so can sometimes lead to cleaning deductions from deposits.
A professionally cleaned property can help:
- Create a positive impression
- Reduce cleaning related disputes
- Save valuable moving time
- Meet landlord expectations
- Prepare the property for new tenants
Portsmouth has a busy rental market, and many tenants choose professional end of tenancy cleaning because it provides peace of mind during a stressful move.
Leila & Dave's Cleaning Services supports tenants across Portsmouth with reliable cleaning solutions tailored to rental properties of all sizes.
Why Choose Leila & Dave's Cleaning Services
When searching for help with what does end of tenancy cleaning include, choosing an experienced local company makes a difference.
Leila & Dave's Cleaning Services provides professional cleaning services across Portsmouth with a focus on quality, reliability, and attention to detail.
Our team understands the standards expected by landlords, letting agents, and tenants. We clean every room carefully, ensuring important details are not overlooked.
Whether you are moving from a flat, house , apartment, or rental property, our experienced cleaners can help make the process easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does end of tenancy cleaning include?
End of tenancy cleaning includes deep cleaning of kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, living areas, hallways, cupboards, appliances, skirting boards, doors, and other internal areas of the property.
Is oven cleaning included?
In most professional services, oven cleaning is included. However, it is always best to confirm this when booking.
How long does end of tenancy cleaning take?
The time depends on the size and condition of the property. A small flat may take a few hours, while larger homes can take most of the day.
Do I need professional end of tenancy cleaning?
While it is not always legally required, many tenants choose professional cleaning to meet landlord expectations and reduce the risk of deposit deductions.
Are carpets cleaned during end of tenancy cleaning?
Vacuuming is usually included. Professional carpet cleaning may be available as an additional service.
Should the property be empty before cleaning?
Yes. End of tenancy cleaning is usually most effective when the property is empty and all personal belongings have been removed.
How much does end of tenancy cleaning cost in Portsmouth?
The cost depends on the size of the property, number of rooms, and level of cleaning required.
If you have been wondering what does end of tenancy cleaning include, the answer is a thorough top to bottom clean covering kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, living spaces, cupboards, appliances, skirting boards, doors, and many of the smaller details that landlords often inspect.
A professional clean can save time, reduce stress, and help leave your rental property in excellent condition.
For tenants, landlords, and letting agents in Portsmouth, Leila & Dave's Cleaning Services provides trusted end of tenancy cleaning solutions designed to help properties look their best when it matters most.
Ready to prepare your property for moving day? Contact Leila & Dave's Cleaning Services today for professional end of tenancy cleaning in Portsmouth.
Let’s Make Your Home Shine Again
Have a question or want to book a clean? Send us a quick message using the form below and we’ll respond as soon as possible to discuss your needs and arrange a cleaning time that suits you.
