Can You Do End of Tenancy Cleaning Yourself? Pros, Cons & Hidden Costs

Can You Do End of Tenancy Cleaning Yourself?

Yes, you can do it yourself. Many tenants try cleaning at the end of a tenancy themselves to save money, especially in London where deposits are high.

However, end of tenancy cleaning is not like other cleaning. This is a deep clean from top to bottom, involving:

• Oven degreasing

• Lime scale removal

• Carpet stain removal

• Deep bathroom sanitizing

• Skirting boards, light fittings, switches

• Inside cupboards, appliances, fridge, freezer

• Window cleaning (interior)

• Odour and pet smell extraction

Most individuals do not think that it will take as much time, effort, and equipment as it really does.

Pros of Doing End of Tenancy Cleaning Yourself

1. You Save Money Upfront

When one's budget is tight, DIY looks appealing.

2. You Are in Full Control

You decide what to clean and when.

3. You Can Use Natural or Preferred Products

Especially useful for people with allergies or sensitivities.

Cons of Doing End of Tenancy Cleaning Yourself

1. It Takes Much Longer Than Expected

Most tenants spend 6–12 hours cleaning a 1–2 bedroom flat.

2. Poor Availability of Professional Equipment

Household products rarely remove:

• Tough oven grease

• Carpet stains

• Mould

• Limescale deposits

3. Landlords Expect Professional Standards

Even if you clean well, it may not meet the requirements of inventory.

4. Easy to Miss Important Areas

Commonly forgotten:

• Behind appliances

• Inside the washing machine seal

• Extractor fan filters

• Tile grout

• Inside cupboards

• High dusting

The Hidden Costs of DIY End of Tenancy Cleaning

1. Purchasing Additional Products

You might need:

• Oven cleaners

• Descalers

• Sprays for carpet cleaning

• Mould remover

• Microfibre cloths

• Limescale tools

These can easily add up to £30-£70.

2. What If You Fail the Inspection

The biggest hidden cost: deposit deductions.

Agencies often charge:

• Oven cleaning: £50–£90

• £25–£40 per carpeted room

• Full cleaning team: £150–£300

This is 2–3 times more expensive than hiring a cleaning company yourself.

3. The Cost of Your Time

A whole day spent cleaning - often after packing and moving and having to deal with removals.

How Long Does End of Tenancy Cleaning Really Take?

Time depends on:

• Size of the property

• Degree of filthiness

• Number of cleaners

• Condition of appliances

• 
  

Average cleaning times:

• Studio Flat — DIY 4–6 hours / Professional 1.5–2.5 hours

• 1 Bedroom Flat — DIY 6–8 hours / Professional 2–3 hours

• 2 Bedroom Flat — DIY 8–12 hours / Professional 3–4 hours

• 3 Bedroom House — DIY 12–16 hours / Professional 4–6 hours

DIY always takes much longer because one person is doing what normally requires a team.

What Happens If You Don't Do End of Tenancy Cleaning?

1. Deposit Deductions

Landlords and letting agents compare the property to the original inventory and charge for anything that doesn't meet the required standard.

2. You Might Not Pass the Final Inspection

If the agent isn’t satisfied, they can:

• Deduct money

• Require Re-Clean

• Delay return of your deposit

Some even schedule a professional clean and bill you without asking.

3. You Might Be Charged Much More Than You Expect

Agency cleaning rates are usually higher compared to professional cleaning companies.

Tenants often lose £200–£500 just because they didn’t clean properly.

4. It May Affect References

Agencies may note "poor handover" or "property not cleaned," impacting future rentals.

When DIY Is NOT Recommended

Avoid DIY if:

• The property is extensive

• The oven is heavily soiled

• There are carpet stains

• There is mould or limescale buildup

• You have limited time before check-out

• You want your full deposit guaranteed

Professional Help: Go London Cleaners

If you want guaranteed standards, Go London Cleaners provides full end of tenancy cleaning across all areas of London including:

• Deep kitchen and bathroom cleaning

• Oven cleaning

• Carpet cleaning

• Hard-to-remove limescale

• Inside cupboards, appliances, and windows

• Professional equipment and detergents

• Pass-inspection guarantee

Our services mean that returning tenants receive the full deposit amount without any stress, delay, or additional and hidden charges.