Cleaning supplies on counter

How much does end-of-tenancy cleaning cost in the UK?

Last updated October 28, 2026

A detailed breakdown of what end-of-tenancy cleaning costs across the UK in 2026, covering property size, London versus regional prices, add-ons, hidden costs, DIY versus hiring a company and protecting your deposit.

£140 - £355

A standard end-of-tenancy clean in the UK averages £140 for a studio flat and rises to around £355 for a four-bedroom house. Most two and three-bedroom homes typically cost around £242. In London, prices are roughly 28% higher than the UK average. Bark's analysis of over 6,394 UK end-of-tenancy cleaning quotes in 2026 shows property size and location have the biggest impact on price.

Get free quotes from professional end-of-tenancy cleaners on Bark


A studio flat in Manchester and a four-bedroom house in Kensington are both technically end-of-tenancy cleans. However, the amount of work involved can be very different.

One might take a few hours with a mop and microfibre cloths. The other could require a full day for two cleaners, including deep cleaning multiple bathrooms, degreasing a heavily used oven and cleaning carpets.

This guide breaks down the real end-of-tenancy cleaning prices by property size, location and job type. You'll also learn what's included in a standard clean and which extras cost more.

Note: All prices in this guide exclude VAT unless stated otherwise. These are average costs, so compare direct quotes from local end-of-tenancy cleaners to find the right price for your property.

What is end-of-tenancy cleaning?

House cleaning

End of tenancy cleaning is a deep, top-to-bottom clean carried out when a tenancy ends. Its aim is to return the property to the cleanliness standard recorded in the original check-in inventory.

It goes well beyond a regular domestic clean. Cleaners typically work through every room, inside cupboards, behind appliances and along skirting boards, rather than focusing only on visible surfaces.

The service is designed to prepare the property for its checkout inspection. It can also help landlords get a property ready for the next tenant.

That's why end-of-tenancy cleaning is priced and structured differently from a regular domestic clean. When comparing quotes, make sure you're comparing like-for-like end-of-tenancy services.

What's included in an end-of-tenancy cleaning service?

A standard end-of-tenancy package covers a thorough clean of the property against a checklist, not a quick surface-level tidy. Most providers work to a detailed standard designed to meet typical checkout expectations, working through every room in turn.

Kitchen

Kitchen cleaning includes degreasing the oven, hob and extractor fan inside and out, and cleaning the interiors of the fridge and freezer. Cleaners empty and wipe out cupboards and drawers, descale worktops and splashbacks, and wash floors, including the edges most regular cleans skip.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms get a similarly close pass. Cleaners scrub and descale the bath, basin and shower, clean the toilet inside and out, and treat tile grout for mould. They also polish mirrors and glass surfaces to remove watermarks and toothpaste splashes.

Living areas and bedrooms

Living areas and bedrooms are dusted throughout, including skirting boards, door frames and light switches, with internal window sills wiped down and floors vacuumed and mopped. 

Hallways and storage

Hallways and storage areas get the same treatment, with stairs, bannisters and storage cupboards cleaned inside and the front door interior wiped down too.

Not every company includes oven cleaning, fridge cleaning and appliance interiors as standard, so some quotes look cheaper simply because they exclude items other providers build in. Always ask for a written checklist of exactly what's covered before comparing quotes on price alone. It's the only way to know you're comparing the same job.

What's included in an end-of-tenancy clean, by area

Area

Key focus

Kitchen

Oven, hob and extractor; fridge, freezer and cupboard interiors

Bathrooms

Bath, basin, shower and toilet; grout and mould treatment

Living areas and bedrooms

Dusting, skirting boards and light switches; floors vacuumed and mopped

Hallways and storage

Stairs, bannisters and storage cupboards; front door interior

How long does end-of-tenancy cleaning take?

Window cleaning

A studio or one-bedroom flat typically takes around four hours to clean to an end-of-tenancy standard. A two-bedroom home averages five hours, while a three-bedroom home takes around seven hours.

A four-bedroom-plus house usually needs about eight hours. Larger properties are often handled by two or three cleaners working together.

This approach keeps the job to a single visit and reduces the risk of running out of time before the checkout inspection. If a four-bedroom house is quoted for only three hours, ask exactly what's included.

How much does end-of-tenancy cleaning cost by property size?

Property size is the single biggest driver of price. The table below shows UK-wide and London averages for a standard end-of-tenancy clean, based on real prices from multiple UK cleaning providers.

End of tenancy cleaning cost by property size (GBP, excluding VAT)

Property size

UK average

London average

Typical duration

Studio flat

£140

£190

4 hours

1-bedroom flat

£170

£215

4 hours

2-bedroom home

£210

£290

5 hours

3-bedroom home

£275

£335

7 hours

4+ bedroom house

£355

£425

8 hours

These figures cover the standard clean before add-ons such as carpet or oven cleaning are added.

A furnished property generally costs more than the same layout unfurnished. Cleaners have more areas to work around and may need to clean inside wardrobes, around furniture and under removable items.

If your property is heavily furnished, mention this when requesting quotes. This helps ensure the price reflects the actual work involved.

Compare cleaning prices for your exact property size on Bark

How much does end-of-tenancy cleaning cost per hour?

House cleaning

Most end-of-tenancy cleaners in the UK charge an average of £24 per hour outside London. In London, the average hourly rate rises to around £27.

In smaller towns and rural areas, hourly rates can fall as low as £19.

End of tenancy cleaning cost per hour (GBP, excluding VAT)

Location

Average hourly rate

UK average

£24 per hour

London average

£27 per hour

Rural and small towns

£19 per hour

Hourly pricing can suit smaller jobs or properties in good condition that need a lighter clean before checkout.

For properties larger than a one-bedroom flat, many companies use a fixed rate instead. The scope of work is easier to estimate, and a flat rate protects you from unexpected increases if the clean takes longer.

What do end-of-tenancy cleaning jobs typically cost?

Beyond the standard size-based clean, end-of-tenancy services can cover several different booking scenarios. The type of booking usually has less impact on price than the property's size and condition.

A tenant booking a move-out clean pays roughly the same as a landlord booking a turnaround clean for the same property. This assumes both request the same checklist and level of service.

Letting agents managing several properties may negotiate lower rates for repeat bookings. This usually depends on booking volume and the relationship with the cleaning company.

One-off deep cleans outside a tenancy, such as pre-sale or post-renovation cleans, are often priced similarly to an end-of-tenancy clean of the same size. The required work matters more than the label attached to the booking.

How much does end-of-tenancy cleaning cost in different parts of the UK?

House cleaning

Location can have a significant impact on cleaning costs, alongside property size. If you're specifically searching for end-of-tenancy cleaning in London, budget around 28% more than the UK average.

Prices generally become lower as you move away from London and the South East.

End of tenancy cleaning cost by city (GBP, excluding VAT)

City

1-bedroom flat

3-bedroom home

London

£175

£280

Oxford

£155

£245

Manchester

£135

£220

Nottingham

£125

£205

Glasgow

£120

£195

The pattern extends across the wider UK. Prices generally run highest in London and the South East, with lower costs across many areas of the North, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Local labour costs, operating expenses and travel time can all contribute to regional price differences.

If you're moving within a city, consider requesting quotes from cleaners based in nearby areas as well. Their operating and travel costs may be lower than those of providers based centrally.

Hire an end-of-tenancy cleaner near you

Need help with a thorough move-out clean? Get free, no-obligation quotes from experienced end-of-tenancy cleaners on Bark.

What affects the cost of end-of-tenancy cleaning?

Six main factors can move the price up or down. Most are worth considering before you request quotes.

Property size and layout

This is the biggest factor by far, as shown in the pricing table above. A property with more bathrooms than average can cost more, even with the same bedroom count.

Condition at the point of booking

A property that's been kept clean throughout the tenancy takes less work than one with significant buildup. A heavily soiled oven, for example, typically adds around £25 to the standard oven-cleaning charge.

Furnished versus unfurnished

Furnished properties generally cost more because cleaners need to work around furniture and clean additional areas. An unfurnished property of the same size can be quicker to complete.

Access

Ground-floor flats with nearby parking are easier to service than fourth-floor flats without a lift or parking. Cleaners need to account for the time required to carry equipment and supplies.

Company type

Independent cleaners and agencies can have different pricing structures. Agencies may offer additional guarantees or insurance, while independent cleaners can sometimes have lower operating costs.

VAT registration

Sole traders below the £90,000 VAT registration threshold don't add VAT to their invoices. VAT-registered firms add 20% to their quoted rate, which can affect which quote offers better value.

Does when you book change the price?

House cleaning

Booking at least one week before your move-out date gives you more choice and can help you avoid last-minute pricing.

Demand often increases towards the end of each month, when many tenancies reach their end date. Student tenancies can create another busy period around June and July.

If your move-out date falls during a high-demand period, book earlier than usual. Ideally, arrange your clean as soon as your notice period and move-out date are confirmed.

Weekday bookings are also generally easier to schedule than weekends. Friday and Saturday slots can be particularly busy around moving dates.

What add-on services cost extra, and how much are they?

Carpet cleaning, oven cleaning and window cleaning are common add-ons to a standard end-of-tenancy package. They're often priced separately because they require additional equipment or cleaning time.

End of tenancy cleaning add-on prices (GBP, excluding VAT)

Add-on service

Average price

Carpet cleaning (per room)

£40

Oven cleaning (single oven)

£70

Oven cleaning (double oven)

£105

Oven cleaning (AGA or range cooker)

Up to £160

External window cleaning

£35

Upholstery cleaning (two-seater sofa)

£65

Upholstery cleaning (three-seater sofa)

£100

Heavy limescale or mould treatment

£40

Carpet cleaning can be worth adding if your carpets have experienced heavy footfall during the tenancy. Carpet condition can be an issue during checkout inspections. Find a carpet cleaner near you on Bark if you want this handled separately from your main clean.

Oven cleaning is worth checking carefully before booking. Some providers include it as standard, while others charge separately. Compare oven cleaning specialists on Bark if your quote doesn't cover this service and your oven needs attention.

Receive quotes from end-of-tenancy cleaners on Bark for the services you need

What other costs should I watch out for?

House cleaning

Beyond the add-ons above, several extra charges can appear if they're not discussed when you book.

  • Minimum call-out charges: Some carpet cleaners apply a minimum fee of around £60, rising to £80 in London, regardless of how few rooms you book. Bundling carpet cleaning into your main booking can help avoid this.
  • VAT on top of your quote: VAT-registered firms add 20% to the price if VAT isn't already included. Always confirm whether your quote is VAT-inclusive.
  • Re-clean fees: Some companies offer a free re-clean within 48 to 72 hours if the checkout inspection identifies an issue. Others may charge for a second visit.
  • Surcharges for heavily soiled properties: A very dirty oven typically adds around £25 to the standard rate. Similar charges may apply to bathrooms with heavy limescale or mould.
  • Garden and outdoor areas: Garden tidying isn't normally part of a standard end-of-tenancy clean. It's usually charged separately at a day rate, averaging around £137 for a full day's work.

Before you pay, confirm exactly what's included in the quote. A quick conversation can prevent an unexpected charge on the final invoice.

How can I save money on end-of-tenancy cleaning?

There are several practical ways to reduce the cost without compromising the quality of the clean.

Book early

Booking at least a week ahead gives you more choice and reduces the risk of needing a last-minute slot.

Bundle add-ons into one booking

Adding carpet or oven cleaning to the main service can be more convenient and may help avoid minimum call-out charges.

Do the light work yourself first

Clear rubbish, empty cupboards and declutter before cleaners arrive. This leaves them more time for the detailed cleaning work.

Get three quotes minimum

Comparing several like-for-like quotes gives you a better idea of the going rate for your property.

Ask about off-peak slots

Weekday bookings away from month-end can be easier to schedule than busy weekend slots.

Check for a re-clean guarantee

A free re-clean guarantee can protect you from paying twice if the checkout inspection identifies an issue.

Is it cheaper to clean the property myself or hire a company?

House cleaning

Cleaning products and equipment for a DIY end-of-tenancy clean cost far less upfront than a professional service. You'll need products such as multi-surface cleaner, oven degreaser and limescale remover, along with cloths and bin bags.

However, DIY cleaning takes considerable time and effort. End of tenancy cleaning is more extensive than a weekly clean, covering areas such as behind appliances, extractor fans and grout lines.

Professional cleaners typically work from a detailed checklist designed for end-of-tenancy cleaning. Some also provide a completed checklist, invoice or photographs after the job.

If your tenancy has been short, the property is in reasonable condition and you have a free weekend, DIY cleaning can work well.

If you're short on time or the property needs extensive cleaning, hiring a professional can make the process easier. Get quotes from end-of-tenancy cleaners on Bark to compare your options.

What should I check before I book an end-of-tenancy clean?

Before committing to a quote, check the following details so you know exactly what you're paying for:

  • Confirm the exact rooms and items covered, including whether oven, fridge and window cleaning are included.
  • Ask whether the price is fixed or can change if the property is dirtier than expected.
  • Confirm whether the quoted price includes VAT or whether 20% will be added.
  • Ask about the re-clean guarantee and how long you have to report an issue.
  • Check reviews and, where relevant, confirm the company carries public liability insurance.
  • Ask what documentation you'll receive after the job, such as a checklist, invoice or photographs.
  • Confirm the cancellation or rescheduling policy in case your move-out date changes.

Working through these points before booking can reduce the risk of unexpected costs or disagreements later.

Explore cleaners on Bark and find the right service for your move

Should I ask for an invoice, receipt or checklist before I pay?

House cleaning

Ask for an invoice, receipt or completed checklist before making final payment. Ideally, keep all three if the company provides them. This documentation can show what service was carried out if your landlord later raises an issue about the property's condition.

Some providers also supply before-and-after photographs. Keep your paperwork until your deposit has been fully returned and any checkout issues have been resolved.

How far in advance should I book my end-of-tenancy clean?

Book as soon as your move-out date is confirmed, ideally at least one week ahead as most professional cleaning companies recommend. This gives the cleaner enough notice to schedule the right team size for your property. This is especially important for anything above a two-bedroom home that needs two people on site.

If your tenancy ends during a high-demand period, push that lead time out further. The last few days of any month are consistently the busiest, since most UK tenancies run to monthly cycles and end on the same date. The June to July student turnover season adds another spike in university towns, where entire streets move out within the same fortnight.

During these peak windows, book two to three weeks ahead rather than one. Cleaning companies in student areas and city centres are frequently fully booked days in advance during these periods. This leaves you with fewer options and less room to negotiate on price.

Booking early also protects the order of events on moving day itself. Schedule the clean for after your furniture and belongings are out. Leave enough buffer before the checkout inspection for a re-clean if anything gets flagged.

If your move-out date is still uncertain, such as waiting on a house purchase to complete, ask about the company's rescheduling policy first. Not all providers offer this for free.

Leaving it until the last few days rarely ends well. You'll have fewer cleaners to choose from, less time to compare quotes properly, and a real risk of accepting whoever happens to be free.

How many quotes should I get before I choose a cleaner?

House cleaning

Getting at least three quotes before booking is standard advice for any home service, and end-of-tenancy cleaning is no exception. Prices for the same job can vary by £50 or more between local providers, even in the same town. Without a benchmark, you have no way of knowing whether a quote is fair or inflated.

Make sure every quote you compare covers the same ground. Ask each company to confirm the exact rooms included, whether oven, fridge and window cleaning are part of the standard price, and whether carpet cleaning is extra. A £150 quote that excludes the oven isn't actually cheaper than a £190 quote that includes it.

Treat a quote that's noticeably lower than the others with some caution rather than jumping straight on it. It often means fewer inclusions, no re-clean guarantee, or a company that isn't VAT registered and will add 20% once the invoice lands. A quick call to ask what's missing usually clears this up in a couple of minutes.

Going with the very first quote you receive leaves you with nothing to compare it against. Getting more than four or five, on the other hand, rarely adds much extra value and mostly just costs you time chasing replies. Request quotes from multiple vetted cleaners on Bark in one go, so you're comparing properly from the start rather than one company at a time.


A professional end-of-tenancy clean in the UK averages £140 for a studio flat and rises to around £355 for a four-bedroom house. London prices are higher across every property size, while location and property condition can also affect the final cost.

The biggest pricing mistake is comparing quotes without checking what's included. Carpet, oven and window cleaning may cost extra, while VAT can also change the final amount.

Get free, no-obligation quotes from vetted end-of-tenancy cleaners on Bark.

FAQs

No, under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, landlords and letting agents cannot legally require you to pay for professional cleaning as a condition of your tenancy.

You do still need to return the property to the required cleanliness standard. This is usually assessed against the property's check-in inventory, which is why many tenants choose professional cleaning.