According to the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS), cleaning accounts for 56% of deposit disputes and there has recently been a sharp rise in the number of properties that require professional cleaning services at check-out.

Pat Barber, Chair of the Association of Independent Inventory Clerks commented that "there is a general lack of respect for property by tenants, with
many failing to leave the property in the same condition they found it. We have seen many properties left in a filthy state. The main problems are dirty ovens
and fridges, greasy kitchens, limescale on taps, carpet stains and bathrooms that have not been cleaned for months”.

There can be no compromise on cleanliness; a property should be vacated with no sign of previous occupation - as if it been made ready especially for the incoming tenant. In essence, if a property, or even a teapot, was clean at the start of the tenancy, then it should be left the same way at the end of the tenancy, although reasonable wear and tear should be  accepted.

One way of  achieving this is to make it very clear to tenants what is expected of them, both in the tenancy agreement, verbally and then repeated as soon as notice is given, with follow-up. A detailed photo-catalogued inventory provides both the benchmark for the expected standard, as well as proof of any deviation from it.  An estimate of the cost of professional cleaning should also be supplied to the tenant as an incentive to get it right!

If you would like a lettings valuation then please give us a call:

01535 930482 - Keighley Area

01422 291930 - Halifax Area

or e-mail:  admin@quickmoveestates.com