Can a Landlord Deduct a Deposit for Cleaning?

Introduction

One of the most common disputes between tenants and landlords is over cleaning costs at the end of a tenancy. Many tenants wonder if their landlord can deduct money from their deposit for cleaning, and what’s considered fair or reasonable. In this blog, we’ll break down the rules surrounding cleaning deductions from deposits, so you know what to expect and how to avoid any unnecessary charges.

Can a Landlord Deduct for Cleaning?

Yes, a landlord can deduct money from your deposit for cleaning, but only if the property is left in a worse condition than it was when you moved in. This is called ‘dilapidation,’ and it refers to any damage or deterioration beyond what would be considered normal ‘wear and tear’.

For example, if you’ve left stains on the carpet or the kitchen is significantly dirtier than it was at the start of the tenancy, the landlord could claim cleaning costs. However, they cannot charge you for professional cleaning unless it’s necessary to bring the property back to the same standard it was in when you moved in.

How to Avoid Cleaning Deductions

Here’s how you can avoid disputes over cleaning and ensure you get your full deposit back:

  1. Check the Inventory Report: When you move in, your landlord should provide an inventory report that details the condition of the property. Check it carefully, and if anything is not accurately noted, take pictures and report it to the landlord.
  2. Deep Clean Before You Leave: Before you move out, give the property a thorough clean, paying attention to areas like the oven, bathroom, and carpets. Make sure it’s in the same condition as when you moved in, aside from normal wear and tear.
  3. Take Photos: Document the condition of the property when you leave by taking dated photos. This will give you evidence if your landlord disputes the state of cleanliness.
  4. Get a Professional Clean (If Needed): If the property was professionally cleaned before you moved in, you may want to hire a professional cleaner to meet that same standard.

Conclusion

A landlord can only deduct money from your deposit for cleaning if the property has not been returned in the condition it was at the start of the tenancy, minus reasonable wear and tear. By ensuring the property is cleaned properly before you leave, and by documenting the condition with photos, you can avoid unnecessary disputes. At Tenant Angels, we specialise in helping tenants with deposit disputes when the deposit is not protected within a government-backed scheme. If you have concerns about your deposit, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

FAQ

Can my landlord deduct for wear and tear?

No, your landlord cannot charge you for normal wear and tear. This refers to the natural deterioration that happens during everyday use.

What if the property was dirty when I moved in?

If the property was not cleaned to a good standard when you moved in, you shouldn’t be held responsible for cleaning it to a higher standard when you leave.

Can I be charged for professional cleaning?

Landlords cannot automatically charge for professional cleaning unless it’s necessary to bring the property back to its original condition.

How can I prove the property was clean when I left?

Take dated photos when you move out, showing the condition of each room. This can serve as evidence in the event of a dispute.

What happens if I disagree with the deductions?

If you disagree with any deposit deductions, you can raise a dispute through the tenancy deposit protection scheme.


We specialise in helping tenants make successful compensation claims when your landlord or letting agent has failed to protect your deposit correctly.

The law is very black and white when it comes to deposit protection and states that your deposit must be protected in one of the three government-backed schemes within 30 days of you paying it and it should remain protected until the day you move out.

Claims can be worth up to 3x your deposit, plus the full return of your deposit on top. For example, if you paid a £1,000 deposit, you may be able to claim £3,000 + your £1,000 deposit back.

Use our FREE online eligibility checker to see if you could be owed compensation.



Disclaimer: The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice or a client-solicitor relationship. All information, content, and materials available on this website are for general information purposes only and should not be used as the basis for taking any specific course of legal action.