It’s a question we hear from tenants all the time: “My tenancy agreement says I have to get the property professionally cleaned — is that allowed?” The answer depends on what exactly is being asked.
This is general information, not legal advice. If you’re in a dispute, check the latest government guidance or speak to your deposit scheme.
The Tenant Fees Act 2019
In England, the Tenant Fees Act 2019 limits the payments landlords and letting agents can require from tenants. Government guidance is clear that landlords can’t require tenants to pay for a professional cleaning service as a condition of the tenancy. So a clause saying you must use (and pay for) a professional cleaner at the end of your tenancy is generally not enforceable.
But you still have to return the property clean
That doesn’t mean cleaning doesn’t matter. You’re still expected to return the property in the same condition it was in at the start of the tenancy, allowing for fair wear and tear. If it’s left dirtier than at check-in, the landlord can propose a deduction from your deposit to cover the cost of cleaning it.
What counts as a fair deduction?
Deductions should reflect the actual cost of putting the property back to its check-in condition. A landlord generally needs evidence — typically the check-in inventory compared with the check-out report and photos — to support any claim. If you disagree, your deposit protection scheme offers free dispute resolution.
So should you use a professional cleaner?
It’s your choice. You can clean the property yourself, as long as it’s returned to the right standard. Many tenants choose a professional because:
- An end of tenancy clean is a big job to fit around moving day
- Professionals know exactly what inventory clerks check
- A good company will come back and fix anything flagged — ours re-cleans free within 48 hours
If you’d like the peace of mind, see our end of tenancy cleaning service.