End of tenancy carpet cleaning sits at the point where a cleaning decision becomes a financial one. The cost of the clean is usually far smaller than the deduction a check-out report can trigger.
This guide explains how these jobs are priced, what a clerk records, and where tenants and landlords most often disagree.
How check-out cleans are priced
Empty properties clean faster than occupied ones, which usually works in your favour. Against that, check-out work often involves heavier soiling from a full tenancy, plus stairs, landings and cupboard thresholds that are easy to overlook when comparing quotes.
- Whole-property area including hallways, stairs and landings
- Accumulated traffic lane soiling from the length of the tenancy
- Pet odour or contamination treatment where applicable
- Scheduling around key handover, which can mean tight or out-of-hours slots
What inventory clerks record
Clerks compare the check-out condition against the check-in inventory, allowing for fair wear and tear. Their notes typically focus on visible traffic lanes, staining, odour and burn or damage marks.
Fair wear and tear covers gradual deterioration from normal use. It does not cover staining, pet contamination or damage, which is where deductions usually arise.
Reducing the risk of a deduction
Book the clean after furniture removal and before the check-out appointment, so the carpet is dry and presentable when the clerk attends. Keep the invoice and any before-and-after photographs.
If a stain will not fully respond, say so in writing rather than leaving it for the clerk to discover. Documented, professionally attempted treatment is a far stronger position than silence.