New data reveals that UK renters are losing an astonishing £724 million from their deposits each year, averaging £250 per tenancy, due to cleaning-related deductions. According to a survey by SpareRoom, 63% of tenants have seen these deductions at the end of their lease.
The Cost of Cleaning Deductions
Landlords often claim that properties are not adequately cleaned once tenants move out, necessitating professional cleaning services before welcoming new occupants. The average deduction is £250, but the survey shows that 29% of tenants have faced deductions exceeding £500, and 16% over £750. Surprisingly, only 34% of renters contest these charges, and of those who do, 41% successfully negotiate a reduction or cancellation of the costs. Interestingly, just 17% of tenants paid for a professional clean before moving out.
“Navigating the move-out process can be stressful for both renters and landlords. Landlords want their property in good condition, while renters aim to get their deposits back,” says Matt Hutchinson, Director of SpareRoom.
Although landlords cannot legally demand professional cleaning fees, ensuring a thorough clean, either personally or professionally, can help avoid deposit deductions. Maintaining cleanliness throughout the tenancy and having clear communication with landlords can also prevent surprises at the end.
Commonly Neglected Cleaning Areas
The research highlights specific areas and appliances that tenants often neglect. The top offender is the oven, with 13% of renters admitting they’ve never cleaned it. To prevent grease build-up, ovens should be deep-cleaned every three months.
Dishwashers also need attention; 31% of tenants have never cleaned theirs. Running a dishwasher cleaner cycle can remove mineral build-up and trapped detergent residue.
Windows are another commonly overlooked area, with 11% of tenants never washing them. Regular professional cleaning, at least twice a year, can keep windows free from streaks and dirt, especially in urban areas.
On the positive side, fridges are regularly cleaned by British renters. While it’s recommended to clean fridges every few months, 24% of tenants report deep-cleaning their fridges weekly.
Cleaning and Flatmate Dynamics
Cleaning is a common source of tension in shared flats. Nearly 59% of renters have had disputes with flatmates over cleaning duties. Despite the importance of maintaining similar cleanliness standards, only 27% of renters have established a cleaning rota, while 28% adopt a more ad-hoc approach.
Conclusion
Cleaning-related deductions from deposits are a significant issue for UK tenants, with many losing substantial amounts. To mitigate these costs, tenants should ensure thorough and regular cleaning of their rental properties. Clear communication with landlords and among flatmates can also help maintain cleanliness and avoid disputes. By staying proactive about cleaning, tenants can better safeguard their deposits and enjoy a smoother end-of-tenancy process.
Our Commitment at Touchstone London
At Touchstone London, we ensure that your deposit is held by the Deposit Protection Service (DPS) and will be returned in full, plus interest, as regulations require, when the property meets the necessary standards. We schedule visits to help you keep the property in good shape to avoid any deposit deductions at the end of the tenancy.
For more tips and insights on managing rental properties, contact one of our experts.