Before cleaning starts
Confirm the handover date, key arrangements and whether the property will be empty. Check the tenancy agreement and current Tenancy Services guidance if responsibility is unclear.
- Remove personal belongings and rubbish
- Photograph existing damage before cleaning
- Defrost appliances only when it is safe and permitted
- Keep power and water available for the work
Kitchen
Start high and finish with the floor so dust and residue do not fall onto a clean area.
- Cupboard fronts, handles and reachable shelves
- Benches, splashbacks, sink and taps
- Hob, rangehood exterior and agreed oven areas
- Floors, edges and skirtings

Bathrooms and laundry
Follow the product directions for soap residue and mineral build-up. Point out delicate stone or damaged sealant before strong products are used.
- Shower, bath, basin and toilet
- Mirrors, fittings and reachable surfaces
- Laundry tub and surrounding surfaces
- Floors, corners and ventilation covers that are safely reachable
Bedrooms, living areas and carpet
Empty rooms are easier to inspect. Check behind doors and along edges where dust is often left. If carpet extraction is needed, list the carpeted rooms, stairs, stains, pet history and any furniture that will remain in the MoveOut quote request.
- Vacuumed floors and cleaned hard surfaces
- Professional carpet cleaning added to the confirmed scope when requested
- Skirtings, window sills and reachable ledges
- Interior glass included in the confirmed scope
- Wall marks recorded for separate discussion
Final walk-through
Compare the result with the entry condition record and take dated photos. Return keys using the agreed method.
- Check cupboards and drawers for belongings
- Remove cleaning supplies and rubbish
- Confirm doors and windows are secure
- Record any issue that cleaning cannot fix
For tenancy responsibilities or disputes, check the facts of your case against current Tenancy Services guidance. View official maintenance guidance
Official sources
Legislation and government pages checked on 3 September 2026.