Move-out cleaning – what is actually included?

When you move out of a home, the landlord, buyer or estate agent expects it to be left thoroughly cleaned. A move-out cleaning is more extensive than ordinary cleaning – it should reset the home to the industry checklist. Here we go through exactly what is included, room by room.

The kitchen

The kitchen is the most time-consuming room. Here we clean the oven, trays and racks, hob and cooktop, extractor fan and filter, and fridge and freezer both inside and out. Worktops, sink, cupboards and drawers are wiped out, and all the doors are degreased.

Appliances are pulled out so the floor and walls behind them are cleaned too. This is often where an inspection is decided, so thoroughness is crucial.

Bathroom and toilet

Tiles and floor tiling are cleaned and descaled, grout is scrubbed, and the basin, toilet, shower or bath are made spotless. Mirrors, fittings and the floor drain are included, as is wiping down cupboards and shelves.

Other rooms and windows

In every room, surfaces, skirting, doors, door frames, radiators and switches are dusted and damp-wiped. Floors are vacuumed and mopped. Windows are cleaned inside and out, including frames and sills. Wardrobes and storage are wiped out inside.

Inspection guarantee

A professional move-out cleaning comes with an inspection guarantee. This means that if the cleaning is not approved at inspection, the company comes back and fixes the shortcomings at no extra cost, usually within 14 days. You therefore pay for an approved result, not just for work carried out.