What is the difference between a domestic and professional clean?

It may not be the most glamorous of subjects, but as a tenant, the last thing you want to worry about is a hefty bill for cleaning charges once you have left your property. 

By definition, a professional clean is typically more thorough and comprehensive than domestic cleaning, often using a specialist company with access to high-tech equipment.

The decision to clean the property yourself or hire a professional cleaning service remains with you but it's crucial to understand that your landlord expects the property to be returned in the same hygienic condition as noted in the check-in inventory report. 

If you do opt to undertake the end-of-tenancy cleaning yourself, use the check-in inventory as a reference. Allocate sufficient time for this task, as deep cleaning is often more time-consuming and extensive than anticipated.

Be aware that if the initial inventory report indicates the property was professionally cleaned at the start of your tenancy, replicating this standard on your own may be challenging. Even if you manage a thorough domestic clean, there might still be additional charges to elevate the cleaning to a professional level. 

Here are examples of just some of the tasks you might be expected to complete if cleaning to a professional standard:

• Empty all rubbish and replace rubbish bags
• Remove cobwebs, dust skirting boards
• Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures
• Clean window sills and wipe down doors
• Dust all furniture including bottoms and sides
• Clean all glass surfaces including smudges on windows
• Clean and disinfect bathrooms (dust light bulbs and wipe down cabinets)
• Sweep, vacuum or mop all floors
• Thoroughly clean the kitchen (including inside the microwave and on top of a refrigerator)
• Defrost fridge/freezer and deep clean the oven, hob and extractor
• Wipe down kitchen cabinet facings
• Polish all glass surfaces and stainless steel in the kitchen

We hope this blog has provided you with some useful information which may enable you to avoid any unwanted charges for cleaning at the end of tenancy.