Budgeting for Your Move in 2025: End of Tenancy Cleaning Prices in London
A few years ago, a client (let’s name her Sarah for the sake of this article) called to request a price quote for end of tenancy cleaning for her two-bedroom apartment. After we gave our estimate, she decided to shop for a “better deal.” Unfortunately, a week later, she was back on the phone, stressed and desperate. The price tag on that “better deal” came with a hefty dose of disappointment: the company she hired overlooked crucial cleaning tasks, leaving our client to face another cleaning bill and a looming move-out date.
This experience highlights a common pitfall tenants encounter: navigating the often confusing world of end of tenancy cleaning costs in London. With potential changes in the market for 2025, predicting prices can be especially tricky for tenants. As the owner and an experienced cleaner at Cleaner Cleaner, I can provide valuable insights to help you estimate the cost of end of tenancy cleaning for your London property. With the proper knowledge, you can avoid unpleasant surprises and find reliable move-out cleaners who will ensure you get your deposit back.
Read also: How to Secure Your Deposit Return with End of Tenancy Cleaning
Deep carpet cleaning and stain removal are considered a separate service and are not included in the standard move out cleaning price.
How is End of Tenancy Cleaning Price Calculated?
When determining the cost of an end of tenancy cleaning, reputable companies take into account several key factors:
Property Size
The size of the property is a significant factor in determining the final price. Larger rental properties require more time and effort to clean. In 2024, the average cost for a one-bedroom flat is £190, while the price for a four-bedroom property typically comes around £300. However, it’s essential to remember that these are rough estimates. Reputable cleaning companies often request photos of the property to provide a more accurate quote, as factors like room size and overall condition can significantly impact the final price. This approach benefits both parties: cleaners can offer a precise quote, and tenants can avoid unexpected costs at the end of their tenancy.
Level of Cleaning Required
The level of cleaning required will significantly impact the cost. The cost will be lower if your property is in good condition and only needs a standard cleaning. However, it’s not uncommon for tenants to prioritise moving preparations and neglect regular cleaning of the property in the final months of their tenancy. However, this can lead to a buildup of extensive stains, grime, and dirt. If this is the case, or if you require additional services like sofa cleaning or carpet cleaning, the price of your end of tenancy cleaning will increase.
Location within London
The location of your rental can also influence the final price. Areas with limited parking or where congestion charges apply can significantly impact the cost. Cleaners may need to factor in additional expenses like parking fees or congestion charge payments when calculating the price for your end of tenancy cleaning.
Additional Services
End of tenancy cleaning involves a thorough, deep cleaning of the rental property. Reputable companies often include oven cleaning as part of the standard service. However, deep cleaning of carpets, furniture, and mattresses is typically not included. To maximise your chances of a full deposit refund, steam cleaning these items is essential. Additionally, external window cleaning is often considered a separate service. While these additional services can add to the overall cost, they can help ensure your property is returned in pristine condition, minimising the risk of deductions due to cleanliness issues.
Read also: Carpet Cleaning When Moving Out
WHAT is Not Part of End of Tenancy Cleaning Service
It’s important to note that the end of tenancy cleaning doesn’t cover everything. Services like mould removal, which often requires specialised expertise, are typically not included. Additionally, wear and tear, or scuff marks on walls are maintenance issues that cleaning cannot resolve. It’s essential to address these issues beforehand, either through repairs or repainting, to ensure a successful end of tenancy cleaning. By planning ahead and addressing these issues before the cleaners arrive, you can optimise the cleaning process and minimise the risk of additional costs or delays.
Check also: End of tenancy cleaning – what do you get for your money
No one can guess the exact changes in the rates, however, knowing the current prices of end of lease cleaning can help you plan the budget for your move in 2025.
What Will the End of Tenancy Cleaning Price Be in 2025?
Predicting exact prices for 2025 can be challenging. However, we can make educated estimates by analysing current trends and factors influencing the cleaning industry.
While official statistics may suggest a modest inflation rate, real-world costs, including those for cleaning services, often exceed these figures. Unfortunately, there’s no reliable source for average end of tenancy cleaning prices in London. Platforms like Checkatrade provide some insights but only include data from the entire UK.
End of Tenancy Cleaning Prices in London for Late 2024
To get a more accurate picture, we’ve analysed quotes from 20 different cleaning companies in London, ranging from budget-friendly options to premium services. By gathering and comparing this data, we’ve estimated the average end of tenancy cleaning prices in London in the last trimester of 2024, as you can see in the table below:
| Property size | Average EOT cleaning price in London |
|---|---|
| Bedroom in flatshare | starting from £95 |
| Studio flat (1 bedroom) | starting from £140 |
| 1 bedroom 1 bathroom flat | starting from £190 |
| 2 bedroom 1 bathroom flat | starting from £220 |
| 3 bedroom 1 bathroom property | starting from £280 |
| 4 bedroom 1 bathroom property | starting from £290 |
Please note that these are average starting prices and often exclude additional services such as carpet cleaning. Most cleaning companies also charge extra for properties with multiple bathrooms; additional bathtubs and sinks also count, as these require additional cleaning time and effort. The inclusion of kitchen appliance cleaning can vary between providers. It’s also important to be aware that weekend appointments may incur additional fees. By considering these factors and working with a reputable cleaning company, you can get an accurate estimate of the cost of your end of tenancy cleaning.
Check also: Alarming Trend: End of Tenancy Deposits Disputes Over Cleaning On the Rise!
End of Tenancy Cleaning Prices in London in 2025
While exact 2025 prices are uncertain, we can anticipate an increase based on current trends. The cost of living affects not only individuals but businesses, too. London has the highest rent inflation in England (10.8%), and there is also a rise in utilities, parking, and the minimum wage, so cleaning companies will inevitably face increased operational costs. This, coupled with the general trend of rising service costs, suggests a 3-4 % increase in average end of tenancy cleaning prices in London for 2025.
Knowing how the end of tenancy cleaning price is calculated can save you money and peace of mind.
How to Save Money on Your End of Tenancy Cleaning in London in 2025
The stress of moving out can be overwhelming, and the added complexity of finding the best end of tenancy cleaning deal among so many cleaning companies and price variations can make it even more frustrating. Especially considering that 63% of the renters have had deposit deductions due to cleaning issues. However, understanding the factors that influence pricing and the quality of service can help you make informed decisions, avoid price pitfalls, get your deposit back, and ultimately save money. Here are some things to consider when requesting an end of tenancy cleaning quote:
Choosing the Right Date for Your Appointment
It’s generally advisable to schedule your cleaning a day or two before the inspection to ensure the property is in pristine condition. You must be aware that some cleaning companies charge extra for weekend appointments. If your property inspection falls on a weekend – or the day after, factor in potential additional costs when budgeting for your end of tenancy cleaning.
Appliance Cleaning
While most cleaning companies include basic cleaning of essential appliances like refrigerators and stoves in their standard end of tenancy cleaning packages, it’s crucial to double-check what’s included. Some budget cleaning services might exclude additional appliances like freezers, washing machines, and dishwashers from their standard package. Additionally, be aware that some providers may not explicitly include oven cleaning in their initial quote, potentially leading to unexpected costs. To avoid surprises and ensure a comprehensive cleaning, it’s advisable to ask for a detailed price quote that clarifies the scope of appliance cleaning with your chosen cleaning company.
Cleaning certain rooms of your rental by yourself might seem like a good idea at first, but there is a high chance it will cost you more than just hiring experienced move out cleaners from the start.
Avoid Partial Cleaning
We strongly recommend that our clients do not opt for partial cleaning services. While it may seem cost-effective to clean specific rooms yourself, this approach can often lead to inconsistencies in the overall cleanliness of the property. Professional cleaners are trained to meet specific standards, and a partial clean may not meet these requirements, leading to uneven results and potential issues during the final inspection. Reputable companies typically provide a comprehensive cleaning service to ensure a consistent standard and minimise the risk of deductions from your deposit.
Read aslo: Professional vs. Domestic Cleaning at the End of a Tenancy
Top-Up Cleaning: a Costly Mistake
Relying on “top-up cleaning” after attempting a DIY clean or hiring a less experienced cleaning company can often be more expensive than hiring experienced professionals. Serious cleaning businesses typically refrain from taking on these types of jobs, as they risk being held accountable for any missed areas or substandard cleaning, which can damage their reputation. It’s far more cost-effective to do some research and call proven professionals from the very beginning. Even if they ask for a higher price, they will make sure the property is cleaned up to the highest standard.
Consider Experience, Quality of Service, and Customer Service
Experienced cleaners may charge a premium, but this often reflects their expertise and commitment to quality. While cleaning materials have similar costs across providers, the quality of service, including customer service, can vary significantly. A professional and courteous approach can make the entire process smoother. Additionally, a trustworthy provider should be responsive to your inquiries and able to accommodate your specific needs and schedule.
Reputable cleaning companies typically offer more extended guarantee periods, ensuring customer satisfaction. At CleanerCleaner.co.uk, we’re committed to exceeding expectations, so we have returned to address minor issues like accumulated dust even when the customer has called outside the guarantee period. We understand that cleanliness is subjective; sometimes, even the most meticulous cleaning may not satisfy everyone. In such cases, our goal is to work with clients to resolve any issues and help avoid any cleaning-related deductions from the tenant’s deposit.
Company Reputation
Thoroughly review online reviews, both positive and negative. Pay attention to how the company responds to negative feedback. Do they address the customer’s concerns professionally and take steps to resolve issues? Positive reviews can provide insights into the company’s strengths, while negative reviews can highlight potential shortcomings. You can make an informed decision and avoid potential pitfalls by carefully analysing reviews.
Opting for a company with a proven track record in the industry is always a wise choice, even if it means paying a slightly higher price. Experienced cleaners focus on delivering high-quality results and can handle unexpected challenges efficiently.
Transparent Pricing and Work
To get an accurate quote, provide as much detail about your property as possible, including size, number of rooms, and specific cleaning needs. Request a detailed quote that outlines all costs, including any additional fees. Reputable companies often conduct a pre-cleaning assessment to provide a precise price quote.
Reliable cleaning companies also provide documentation of the cleaning process, such as detailed checklists, invoices, and before-and-after photos (we at CleanerCleaner make an average of 100 before-and-after images, for example). This documentation is invaluable when dealing with landlords, ensuring a smooth handover and saving you significant time, stress, and money in case of deposit disputes.
Get familiar with the terms and conditions of your cleaning company.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Company: A Wise Investment
Remember, end of tenancy cleaning is an investment, not just an expense. While opting for a cheaper provider may be tempting, it’s crucial to consider the potential long-term costs. A subpar cleaning job can lead to deposit deductions, additional cleaning fees, and unnecessary stress. Investing in a high-quality end of tenancy cleaning service will ultimately save you time, money, and peace of mind.
A note from Vladimir Todorov, owner of Cleaner Cleaner Ltd.:
After 16 years in the cleaning industry, I’ve seen every trick in the End of Tenancy Cleaning book. I am passionate about helping tenants like you avoid unnecessary stress and lost deposits with clear communication and expert cleaning. I hope my insights empower you to make informed decisions about EOT cleaning costs.
