12 tips for tenants: dirt, deposits and deductions

How much will dirt cost you at the end of a tenancy? If new research by SpareRoom is accurate, UK renters are forfeiting £724 million every year thanks to poor levels of cleanliness. In fact, the data showed an average of £250 of cleaning-related deductions per tenancy.   

12 tips for tenants when it comes to dirt

As well as having high standards and a proactive approach to housework, there are ways to approach a tenancy in order to limit deductions for dirt at the end. These tips will help ensure as much of the deposit is returned as possible:  

1. Closely examine the inventory (also known as a Schedule of Condition report) at the start of the tenancy, noting how clean each room is and whether there are any visible stains or dirt. Also read the notes to establish if the inventory clerk has added comments, such as ‘very dirty’, ‘dusty’, ‘greasy’ or ‘cleaning required’.

2. Request to be present at the check in and ensure this is booked for as close to the move in date as possible – ideally the same day.

3. Insist the landlord or their managing agent is present during the check in. Compare what’s been recorded in the inventory with what is noted in the check in report. Be sure to raise any discrepancies on the spot and flag up signs of dirt, taking photos for evidence. The TDS says ‘a well completed check in report should describe the contents, cleanliness, and condition of each room in turn.’ Only sign and date the check in report if you’re happy with the cleanliness of the property.

4. Put all check in concerns about cleanliness in writing as soon as possible, emailing the landlord and/or the managing agent.

5. During the tenancy, clean using the ‘little and often’ mantra, paying particular attention to signs of limescale, mould and watermarks. Don’t forget to maintain outside spaces and balconies. 

6. Clean up spills promptly and try to remove stains using appropriate cleaners.

7. Keep invoices and receipts if you have used a professional to repair, replace or clean anything. Although you can’t claim this cost back, it will prove you have acted diligently and in good faith.

8. Ahead of your last day in the property, retrieve the inventory and check in reports, using these as a guide as to how to restore the property. 

9. Request to be present at the check out and ensure this is booked for as close to the move out date as possible – ideally the same day.  

10. Always alert the landlord and/or managing agent to any issues that may lead to a deterioration of the home’s cleanliness or condition, such as a leak or pest infestation.

11. Ensure there is a detailed check out report conducted by the landlord or their managing agent. This will enable all parties to compare the cleanliness of the property at the end of the tenancy to that which was recorded at the start.

12. Put any end-of-tenancy discrepancies in writing to the landlord and/or managing agent, backed up with photo evidence. 

We would be happy to answer any questions you may have about your time in a rental property. Please get in touch if you would like guidance or our professional opinion.