The Scope of Work
One of the most significant differences between standard cleaning and end of tenancy cleaning is the scope of work involved.
Standard cleaning typically focuses on basic cleaning tasks that are done on a regular basis to maintain a clean living environment. This may include tidying up common areas, vacuuming carpets, wiping down kitchen surfaces, cleaning bathrooms, and dusting furniture. Standard cleaning often addresses the high-traffic areas that accumulate dirt and debris, but it usually does not go into great detail about hard-to-reach areas or deep cleaning tasks.
In contrast, end of tenancy cleaning is a far more comprehensive and detailed process. The primary goal of end of tenancy cleaning is to leave the property in pristine condition, meeting the landlord’s expectations and fulfilling the requirements for the return of the tenant’s security deposit. This cleaning typically involves cleaning every corner of the property, including areas that are usually overlooked in routine cleaning sessions. It goes beyond surface cleaning and requires deep cleaning of areas like ovens, windows, blinds, skirting boards, light fittings, and the inside of cabinets. The property should look as close to move-in condition as possible.
The Level of Detail
When it comes to cleaning a property at the end of a tenancy, the level of detail is much higher than in a standard cleaning. This means tackling areas that are often neglected during regular cleaning. For example, in end of tenancy cleaning, oven cleaning is a critical part of the service. The oven, extractor fans, and kitchen appliances will be thoroughly scrubbed, including removing grease and food residue from the interior. In a standard cleaning routine, this may be overlooked or given a cursory wipe.
The bathrooms are another area that receives a more intense level of attention during end of tenancy cleaning. Deep cleaning of bathroom tiles, grout, and the shower cubicle or bath is essential, as tenants are often expected to leave the property in a highly sanitary state. Standard cleaning in the bathroom may not address stubborn limescale or soap scum, but these issues are tackled in an end of tenancy clean.
Time and Effort Required
Because of the more extensive and detailed nature of end of tenancy cleaning, it often requires more time and effort than a standard clean. It’s not just about making the property look good on the surface; the goal is to restore the property to the condition it was in when the tenant first moved in. This involves extra time spent on deep-cleaning various surfaces, scrubbing carpets, washing walls, and sometimes dealing with problematic areas like mould or stains.
A professional end of tenancy cleaning service is typically hired because of the level of work involved. They have the necessary tools, expertise, and experience to tackle areas that require specialised attention, like removing stubborn stains from upholstery or deep-cleaning a fridge or freezer. Standard cleaning, however, can usually be handled on a more casual basis, and it doesn’t require the same level of effort or thoroughness.
The Importance for Tenants and Landlords
For tenants, the primary concern with end of tenancy cleaning is ensuring the property is returned to the landlord in a condition that meets their expectations. Many landlords stipulate in the rental agreement that the property must be professionally cleaned before moving out. This ensures that the property is in a habitable condition for the next tenant, and it increases the chances of a full deposit return. Tenants who fail to meet these standards may find their deposit withheld or deductions made for cleaning costs.
For landlords, end of tenancy cleaning ensures that the property is in pristine condition for the next tenant, reducing the risk of damage, disrepair, or unsanitary living conditions. It also ensures that the property complies with any legal requirements regarding habitability. Having the property thoroughly cleaned means it’s ready for new tenants, reducing the time it stays empty between tenancies.
Cost Considerations
The cost of end of tenancy cleaning tends to be higher than standard cleaning due to the added time and effort involved. End of tenancy cleaning often includes a deeper clean, specialised equipment, and services such as carpet cleaning or appliance cleaning. The total cost can vary depending on the size of the property, the level of dirt, and the cleaning company’s pricing structure.
While standard cleaning may be less expensive, it is typically a more basic service with fewer tasks included. For tenants who are looking to ensure the return of their deposit, investing in end of tenancy cleaning can be worth the cost, especially when compared to the potential loss of their deposit or the hassle of having to deep clean the property themselves.
Frequency of Cleaning
End of tenancy cleaning is, as the name suggests, usually a one-time event that occurs at the end of a lease agreement, whereas standard cleaning is performed regularly, whether weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. The regularity of standard cleaning depends on the individual or household preferences, but it’s generally maintained to ensure cleanliness and hygiene in a property on an ongoing basis.
End of tenancy cleaning, on the other hand, is a thorough, one-off service designed to address the specific requirements of leaving the property in pristine condition at the end of a tenancy.
While both end of tenancy cleaning and standard cleaning serve to maintain cleanliness, they differ in terms of scope, detail, effort, and purpose. End of tenancy cleaning involves a much more comprehensive and detailed cleaning process, aimed at ensuring the property is in impeccable condition for the next tenant and that the landlord’s requirements are met. On the other hand, standard cleaning focuses on regular maintenance of the property. Understanding the distinction between these two types of cleaning can help tenants and landlords make informed decisions about when and why additional cleaning is needed.
