Comprehensive End of Tenancy Cleaning Checklist: Room by Room Walkthrough

You can also download this list in a print-ready format to use as a guide.

Kitchen

Appliance Cleaning

Oven and Hob

• Remove racks, trays, and oven shelves for separate cleaning
• Apply oven cleaner to the interior and leave for recommended dwell time (usually 30-60 minutes)
• Clean control knobs by removing (if possible) and soaking in warm, soapy water
• Remove and clean oven door glass (both sides) if accessible
• Scrub interior surfaces, including roof, sides, and base
• Clean exterior surfaces, including handles and control panel
• Thoroughly clean hob/stovetop, removing any burner parts for deep cleaning
• For electric stoves, carefully clean heating elements and drip pans
• Polish all chrome or stainless steel components
• Tip: Line the oven with aluminium foil during your tenancy to prevent future cleaning hassle

Refrigerator/Freezer

• Unplug and thoroughly defrost freezer (plan for this 24 hours ahead)
• Remove and wash all shelves, drawers, and door compartments
• Clean interior surfaces with food-safe cleaner
• Wipe exterior surfaces, paying special attention to handles and top surfaces
• Clean door seals where mould and food residue collect
• Pull out the fridge if possible to clean behind and underneath
• Leave doors slightly open after cleaning to prevent odours (if power is off)

Microwave

• Remove and clean the turntable and support
• Clean interior with all-purpose cleaner or warm water with lemon juice
• Wipe exterior surfaces, including the top, sides, and control panel
• Clean around the door seal where food debris collects
• Tip: Heat a bowl of water with lemon for 2 minutes before cleaning to loosen dried food particles

Dishwasher

• Remove and clean filters (often neglected and full of food residue)
• Clean spray arms and check for blockages
• Wipe interior walls and door gaskets
• Run an empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner or white vinegar
• Clean exterior, including control panel and handle
• Wipe inside the door edges where grime collects

Cabinet Cleaning

Exterior Surfaces

• Remove all items from countertops
• Use appropriate cleaner for cabinet material (wood, laminate, painted)
• Pay special attention to cabinet handles and edges
• Clean cabinet faces, including any decorative moulding
• Address grease buildup, especially on cabinets near the stove

Interior Surfaces

• Remove all items from cabinets and drawers
• Vacuum crumbs and debris first
• Wipe all interior surfaces with appropriate cleaner
• Pay special attention to corners and joints where crumbs collect
• Allow to dry completely before replacing shelf liners (if applicable)
• Tip: Use newspaper to line cabinets during your tenancy for easier cleaning

Surface Cleaning

Countertops and Backsplash

• Use the appropriate cleaner for the surface material (e.g., granite, laminate).
• Remove stains with suitable treatments (baking soda paste for stubborn stains)
• Clean backsplash tiles, paying attention to grout lines
• Address any silicone seals around sinks and countertop edges
• Polish if appropriate for the material

Sink and Taps

• Remove limescale buildup with a specialised descaler
• Polish chrome fixtures to remove water spots
• Clean and unclog the drain (remove the trap if necessary)
• Scrub around the base of taps where grime accumulates
• Clean underneath the sink lip where mould can form
• Address the sink overflow hole, often neglected but visible during inspections

Floor Cleaning

Tile Floors

• Sweep or vacuum thoroughly
• Mop with appropriate cleaner
• Address grout lines with a small brush and suitable cleaner
• Pay attention to corners and edges where dirt collects

Vinyl/Laminate Floors

• Sweep or vacuum thoroughly
• Damp mop with manufacturer-recommended cleaner
• Avoid excess water, which can damage these floors
• Address any sticky spots with appropriate spot treatments

Wooden Floors

• Sweep or vacuum thoroughly
• Clean with wood-specific cleaner
• Buff dry to prevent water damage
• Avoid harsh chemicals that can strip finishes

Inspection Hotspots

Extractor Fan/Hood

• Remove and soak filters in a degreasing solution
• Clean the exterior housing and controls
• Wipe all surfaces, including underneath
• Address built-up grease on and around the unit
• Check and clean the vent if accessible

Hidden Grease Areas

• Clean tops of wall cabinets where greasy dust accumulates
• Wipe the space between appliances and cabinets
• Address the area behind the stove if accessible
• Clean kickboards and toe-kicks under cabinets
• Check light fixtures for greasy residue

Limescale Problem Areas

• Descale tap spouts and shower heads
• Address mineral buildup around sink fixtures
• Clean kettle if included with the property
• Check the washing machine soap drawer for limescale

Final Kitchen Touches

• Wipe light switches and power outlets
• Clean any kitchen windowsills and window tracks
• Empty and clean the bin and bin storage area
• Address scuff marks on walls and kickboards
• Check that all cabinet hinges and drawer runners are clean
• Ensure all surfaces are dry and streak-free

Bathroom

Bath and Shower Cleaning

Bathtub Surface

• Remove all personal items and toiletries
• Apply appropriate cleaner based on tub material (porcelain, acrylic, or fibreglass)
• Address soap scum with a non-abrasive cleaner
• Pay special attention to the bath rim and corners where mould forms
• Clean overflow cover and drain (often neglected but highly visible)
• Polish chrome or metal fixtures until streak-free
• Check and clean around tap bases where grime accumulates
• Remove limescale deposits with a specialised descaler

Shower Enclosure

• Clean glass doors with glass cleaner or white vinegar solution
• Remove limescale from glass using specialised products
• Clean shower track/runner where mould and soap scum collect
• Address door seals and sweeps where black mould often forms
• Clean shower head thoroughly (soak in vinegar to dissolve mineral deposits)
• Scrub shower caddy or shelving if present
• Check and clean drain cover and surrounding area

Tile and Grout Cleaning

Wall Tiles

• Spray with suitable bathroom cleaner
• Wipe down all tiled surfaces
• Pay attention to the bottom row of tiles where grime accumulates
• Clean corner joints where mould tends to develop
• Polish tiles for a streak-free finish

Grout Lines

• Make a paste of baking soda and water for light stains
• Apply specialised grout cleaner for tougher stains
• Use a grout brush or old toothbrush to scrub lines thoroughly
• For stubborn mould, apply a bleach solution (1:4 with water)
• Rinse thoroughly and dry completely
• Consider a grout sealer for seriously stained grout (consult landlord first)

Mold Removal Tips

• Ventilate the bathroom well when cleaning mould
• Wear gloves and consider a mask for more significant mould problems
• Apply mold-specific cleaner or bleach solution
• Allow to sit for recommended time (usually 10-15 minutes)
• Scrub with a brush and rinse thoroughly
• Dry completely to prevent immediate regrowth
• For persistent mould, report to the landlord as it may indicate ventilation issues

Toilet Deep Cleaning

Bowl Cleaning

• Apply toilet cleaner or bleach under the rim and throughout the bowl
• Allow the product to work for the recommended time
• Scrub thoroughly with a toilet brush, paying attention to the waterline and under the rim
• Flush to rinse, keeping brush in flowing water to clean it
• For stubborn limescale rings, use a pumice stone (carefully) or specialised cleaner

Exterior Cleaning

• Clean toilet seat, both top and underneath
• Wipe the entire exterior of the toilet, including the tank and base
• Pay special attention to hinges and connection points
• Clean behind the toilet and around the base where dust collects
• Check and clean any mould appearing on silicone seals
• Sanitize the flush handle/button
• Clean any dust on top of the cistern

Sink and Vanity Area

Sink Basin

• Clean with appropriate bathroom cleaner
• Remove limescale from taps and fixtures
• Clean overflow holes thoroughly (often missed)
• Address the area where the sink meets the countertop
• Clean underneath the basin edge where grime collects
• Ensure the drain is clean and free-flowing

Vanity and Storage

• Empty all cabinets and drawers
• Wipe the interior of all storage spaces
• Clean exterior surfaces according to material type
• Polish handles and fixtures
• Check for and clean any water damage or mould
• Address toothpaste splatter on and around the vanity

Mirrors and Glass

Mirror Cleaning

• Use glass cleaner or vinegar-water solution
• Spray onto the cloth rather than directly on the mirror to prevent damage to the backing
• Clean from top to bottom using a lint-free cloth
• Pay attention to edges and corners where grime collects
• Check for and clean any toothpaste splatter
• Ensure the frame is clean and dust-free

Glass Surfaces

• Clean shower screens and glass doors thoroughly
• Remove limescale buildup with appropriate products
• Polish to a streak-free finish
• Clean glass shelving if present
• Address any silicone seals around glass panels

Ventilation Systems

Extractor Fan

• Turn off power at the circuit breaker before cleaning
• Remove cover (if possible) and soak in warm soapy water
• Clean fan blades with a small brush or vacuum with a brush attachment
• Wipe housing with a damp cloth
• Check and clean vent ducting if accessible
• Replace cover once dry
• Test operation after cleaning

Air Vents

• Remove covers if possible and wash
• Vacuum inside accessible vents
• Wipe clean with a damp cloth
• Check for and address any mould around vents

Inspection Hotspots

Limescale Problem Areas

• Shower heads and tap spouts
• Around the base of taps
• Toilet bowl waterline
• Shower doors and screens
• Tile grout lines in hard water areas
• Inside toilet cistern (if accessible)

Hidden Mold Areas

• Silicone seals around bath, shower, and sink
• Behind the toilet (especially near the floor)
• Under bath panel, if accessible
• Underneath sink cabinets
• Inside medicine cabinets or vanity units
• Ceiling corners, significantly above the shower
• Inside toilet tank

Final Bathroom Touches

• Wipe all light switches and pull cords
• Clean light fixtures and replace any burned-out bulbs
• Check and clean windowsills and window frames
• Mop floor, paying attention to corners and behind the toilet
• Clean door, including top edge and handle
• Ensure all surfaces are dry to prevent water spots
• Leave the bathroom door open to aid ventilation

Living Room

Dusting and Surface Cleaning

High Surfaces

• Start with ceiling corners to remove cobwebs
• Clean light fixtures, ceiling fans, and lampshades (remove dust that can be visible when lights are on)
• Dust tops of door frames, picture rails, and tall furniture
• Wipe air vents and heating elements
• Clean ceiling light fittings and replace any blown bulbs
• Dust wall-mounted items, including smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms

Window Areas

• Clean window frames and tracks where dust and dirt accumulate
• Wipe window sills thoroughly, including corners
• Clean glass with appropriate cleaner (interior only, unless specifically required)
• Address condensation marks on frames
• Clean blinds slat by slat (dust top-to-bottom, then wipe with slightly damp cloth)
• For curtains, vacuum with upholstery attachment and check for washing instructions
• Clean curtain rods and fixtures

Furniture and Surfaces

• Move furniture to clean underneath and behind
• Dust all horizontal surfaces thoroughly
• Wipe furniture according to its material (use wood polish for wooden surfaces, etc.).
• Clean inside drawers and shelves if they belong to the property
• Pay attention to coffee tables, side tables, and shelving units
• Vacuum upholstered furniture and remove cushions to clean underneath
• Address marks or stains on furniture with appropriate treatments

Detailed Cleaning Elements

Skirting Boards and Woodwork

• Dust first to remove loose particles
• Wipe with appropriate cleaner based on the finish
• Pay attention to corners and decorative moulding where dust collects
• Clean behind radiators using a radiator brush
• Address any scuff marks or dirt buildup
• Check for and clean areas where pets or children may have caused marks

Doors and Door Frames

• Clean the entire door surface on both sides
• Pay special attention to areas around handles where fingerprints accumulate
• Clean the top edge of the door (often neglected but checked during inspections)
• Wipe door frames completely, including inside the rebate
• Clean the threshold and bottom of the door
• Check for and address any marks or scuffs

Switches and Sockets

• Turn off power at the circuit breaker for safety
• Wipe light switches to remove fingerprints and dirt
• Clean around switch plates where dust collects
• Dust power outlets and media connection points
• Clean thermostat controls and any other wall-mounted controls
• Ensure all are completely dry before restoring power

Floor Cleaning

Carpet Cleaning

• Vacuum thoroughly, using crevice tools for edges and corners
• Move furniture to vacuum underneath (if not already done)
• Address high-traffic areas with extra attention
• Treat stains with appropriate carpet cleaner
• Consider professional carpet cleaning for heavily soiled carpets
• Allow adequate drying time before the final inspection
• Vacuum in different directions for best results and to lift the pile

Hard Floor Cleaning

• Sweep or vacuum to remove loose dirt and dust
• Use appropriate cleaner for the specific floor type:
  • Laminate: barely damp mop with specific laminate cleaner
  • Hardwood: wood-specific cleaner and minimal moisture
  • Tile: tile cleaner with attention to grout lines
  • Vinyl: mild detergent solution and damp mop
• Avoid excess water on any flooring type
• Pay special attention to corners and edges
• Address any stuck-on residue or marks
• Buff dry where appropriate for a streak-free finish

Inspection Hotspots

Odor Management

• Smoke Odors: If smoking has occurred, consider:
  • Wiping walls with vinegar solution to neutralise odours
  • Steam cleaning carpets and upholstery
  • Cleaning curtains if they absorb smoke
  • Using odor-eliminating products (not just masking sprays)
  • Cleaning inside light fixtures where smoke particles collect
  • Replacing light bulbs which can retain smoke odour
• Pet Odors: Address thoroughly by:
  • Treating carpet and upholstery with enzyme cleaners
  • Checking for and cleaning any "accident" spots
  • Paying extra attention to areas where pets spend the most time
  • Cleaning air vents that may circulate pet dander
  • Considering professional cleaning for severe cases

Upholstery Stain Removal

• Identify stain type to determine appropriate treatment
• Test cleaning products on a hidden area first
• Blot stains rather than rubbing (which can spread the stain)
• For water-based stains, use appropriate upholstery cleaner
• For oil-based stains, use a specialised solvent-based cleaner
• Allow adequate drying time
• For persistent stains, consider professional cleaning
• Check the rental agreement regarding furniture cleaning requirements

Electronics and Media Areas

• Dust TV screens with appropriate screen cleaner
• Clean remote controls with disinfectant wipes
• Wipe TV stands and entertainment units thoroughly
• Address cable management areas where dust collects
• Clean speaker grills with a vacuum brush attachment

Final Living Room Touches

• Check for and remove any marks on walls
• Ensure all personal items have been removed
• Test all light bulbs and replace any that aren't working
• Close and secure windows
• Return furniture to original positions (refer to check-in inventory)
• Conduct a final walkthrough from different angles to spot any missed areas
• Take clear, well-lit photos of the cleaned room for your records

Bedroom

Mattress Care and Cleaning

Surface Cleaning

• Remove all bedding and mattress protectors
• Vacuum the entire mattress surface using an upholstery attachment
• Pay special attention to seams, tufts, and buttons where dust collects
• Spot clean any stains with appropriate cleaner based on stain type
• For biological stains, use enzyme-based cleaners
• For general freshening, sprinkle baking soda, leave for 1-2 hours, then vacuum thoroughly

Mattress Airing

• Stand mattress against the wall to air both sides if possible
• Open windows to improve air circulation (weather permitting)
• Ensure the mattress is completely dry before replacing
• If the mattress has persistent odours, consider specialised fabric freshener
• For severe stains or damage, consult the landlord about professional cleaning

Bed Frame Cleaning

• Vacuum all surfaces of the bed frame
• Dismantle if necessary to clean underneath and between joints
• For wooden frames, use appropriate wood cleaner
• For metal frames, wipe with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly to prevent rust
• Check for and address dust or debris in screw holes or crevices
• Pay special attention to headboards, especially fabric ones, which collect dust and oils

Storage Area Cleaning

Wardrobes and Closets

• Remove all personal items and clothing
• Vacuum or wipe interior shelves, starting from top to bottom
• Check and clean the top of the wardrobe where dust accumulates
• Wipe wardrobe doors inside and out
• Clean tracking on sliding doors
• Polish handles and fixtures
• Check for and remove any clothing marks or scuffs
• Leave doors slightly open after cleaning to prevent musty odours

Drawers and Bedside Tables

• Empty all contents completely
• Vacuum inside drawers to remove dust and debris
• Wipe interior surfaces with an appropriate cleaner
• Check for and clean any stains or sticky spots
• Clean exterior surfaces according to material
• Pay attention to handles and drawer runners
• Ensure drawers slide smoothly after cleaning

Under-Bed Storage

• Remove all items from under-bed storage areas
• Vacuum thoroughly, using crevice attachments to reach corners
• Wipe any built-in storage components
• Check for and address dust bunnies, which commonly accumulate
• Ensure storage drawers are clean inside and out

Surface and Fixture Cleaning

Mirrors and Glass

• Clean all mirrors with glass cleaner or vinegar solution
• Wipe from top to bottom to prevent streaking
• Pay attention to mirror edges and frames
• Check for and clean any splash marks or fingerprints
• Polish to a streak-free finish
• Clean any glass cabinet doors or picture frames

Light Fixtures

• Turn off and allow lights to cool completely before cleaning
• Remove shades and wash if applicable
• Dust bulbs carefully (when cool) and check they're working
• Clean ceiling fixtures to remove dust and insects
• Wipe bedside lamps, including bases and switches
• Replace any blown bulbs
• Check wall-mounted lights and clean thoroughly

Windows and Window Treatments

• Clean window frames and sills
• Wipe windows with appropriate glass cleaner
• Clean blinds slat by slat or according to manufacturer instructions
• Vacuum curtains or wash/dry clean according to labels
• Check curtain rails and clean dust that accumulates
• Ensure all hardware is functional and clean

Floor and Carpet Cleaning

Carpet Cleaning

• Move all furniture to clean underneath
• Vacuum thoroughly in multiple directions to lift the pile
• Address high-traffic areas with extra attention
• Treat any stains with appropriate spot cleaners
• Pay special attention to areas near the bed where dust and hair accumulate
• Consider professional steam cleaning for heavily soiled carpets
• Allow adequate drying time before the final inspection

Hard Floor Cleaning

• Sweep or vacuum to remove dust and debris
• Use appropriate cleaner for floor type (wood, laminate, vinyl, tile)
• Pay attention to corners and edges where dust collects
• Clean under radiators and furniture
• Address any scuff marks or stains
• Buff dry if needed to prevent watermarks

Inspection Hotspots

Under-Bed Areas

• This is the most commonly missed area in bedroom cleaning
• Move the bed thoroughly to access the entire floor area
• Vacuum thoroughly, including corners
• Check for and remove any items that may have fallen under the bed
• Look for dust accumulation on baseboards under beds
• Inspect for cobwebs in corners at floor level

Hidden Corners and Crevices

• Check corners where walls meet the ceiling
• Inspect areas behind doors and furniture
• Clean inside built-in fixtures and joinery
• Check corners of closets and wardrobes
• Inspect and clean air vents, which often collect dust
• Look behind radiators and clean thoroughly

Wall Surfaces

• Check for marks from furniture or bedheads
• Look for finger marks around light switches
• Inspect for any sticky residue from tape or adhesives
• Address any scuffs at furniture height
• Clean marks around doorframes
• Check for cobwebs in ceiling corners

Odor Issues

• Address any musty smells in closets with appropriate fresheners
• Check for and clean any spills that might cause odours
• Ensure all personal toiletries and fragrances are removed
• Consider fabric freshener for carpets and curtains
• Leave windows open when possible to air the room

Final Bedroom Touches

• Return all furniture to its original positions
• Ensure all personal items are removed
• Check all drawers and storage spaces are empty
• Test light bulbs and replace any that aren't working
• Close and secure windows
• Take clear photographs of the cleaned room for your records
• Conduct a final inspection using a flashlight to spot any missed dust

Additional Areas

Hallways and Staircases Walls and Skirting Boards

• Remove scuff marks and fingerprints from walls (common in narrow hallways)
• Clean light switches and surrounding areas where fingerprints accumulate
• Dust and wipe all skirting boards, paying attention to corners
• Check for cobwebs in ceiling corners and light fixtures
• Wipe door frames and tops of doors, which collect dust. Staircase Cleaning
• Vacuum stairs thoroughly, including corners and edges
• Clean between balusters/spindles using a cloth-wrapped ruler or specialised tool
• Dust and polish bannisters and handrails
• Wipe stair risers, which often show scuff marks
• Address any squeaky steps or loose carpet (report to the landlord if necessary)
• For wooden stairs, use the appropriate wood cleaner
• For carpeted stairs, treat any stains with a carpet cleaner. Floor Surfaces
• Vacuum hallway carpets in multiple directions to lift the pile
• Mop hard floors with an appropriate cleaner
• Pay attention to threshold areas between rooms where dirt accumulates
• Clean corners and edges thoroughly
• Address high-traffic wear patterns with appropriate treatments
• Check under any hallway furniture for dust and debris

Utility Rooms Washing Machine/Dryer

• Clean exterior surfaces completely
• Wipe control panel and dials
• Clean rubber door seal where mould can accumulate
• Remove and clean detergent drawer
• Run an empty hot wash cycle with a cleaning tablet or white vinegar
• Clean filter according to manufacturer instructions
• Wipe behind and underneath accessible Utility Sinks
• Clean the basin with an appropriate cleaner
• Remove limescale from taps
• Clean drain and overflow
• Wipe surrounding countertops
• Address any watermarks on adjacent surfaces
• Clean underneath sink and surrounding pipes. Storage Areas
• Empty all cupboards and shelving
• Vacuum or wipe interior surfaces
• Clean doors and handles
• Check for and address any leaks or water damage
• Ensure all personal cleaning supplies are removed
• Clean any utility room fixtures and fittings

Built-in Storage Airing Cupboards

• Remove all personal items
• Vacuum or wipe shelving thoroughly
• Check for and address any mould or damp issues
• Clean the hot water tank exterior if accessible
• Wipe doors and surrounding frame
• Ensure the thermostat is dust-free and functioning

 Under-stairs Storage

• Empty entirely of all personal belongings
• Vacuum thoroughly, including corners and ceiling
• Check for and remove cobwebs
• Clean any shelving or hooks
• Wipe walls and ceiling of the storage area
• Ensure light works if present (replace the bulb if needed)

Built-in Wardrobes and Cupboards

• Empty all contents
• Vacuum interior completely
• Wipe shelving from top to bottom
• Clean tracking on sliding doors •
• Dust tops of cupboards where visible
• Check for and remove any odours with the appropriate freshener

Windows, Doors, and Fixtures Interior Windows

• Clean all windowsills and tracks
• Remove any mould around window frames
• Clean glass with appropriate window cleaner
• Wipe frames according to material (uPVC, wood, aluminium)
• Address any condensation damage
• Clean blinds and curtain rails thoroughly
• Ensure windows open and close properly

Internal Doors

• Clean both sides of all doors
• Pay special attention to areas around handles
• Wipe top edges of doors (often missed but checked by inspectors)
• Clean doorframes and thresholds
• Address any scuff marks or fingerprints
• Check and clean door stoppers

Light Fixtures

• Turn off and allow to cool before cleaning
• Remove shade/cover where possible
• Dust bulbs carefully when cool
• Clean ceiling roses and surrounding areas
• Replace any blown bulbs
• Clean pull cords if present
• Pay attention to recessed lighting where insects can accumulate

Other Important Areas

Radiators and Heating Elements

• Dust tops and sides of all radiators
• Clean between radiator columns using a specialised brush
• Wipe radiator covers if present
• Clean behind radiators using a radiator brush
• Dust wall-mounted heaters
• Clean thermostat controls, Fuse Boxes, and Meters
• Dust carefully around electrical boxes
• Wipe the exterior of the consumer unit
• Ensure access is clear
• Do not attempt to clean inside electrical panels

Coat Closets and Entryways

• Empty completely
• Vacuum floor and shelving
• Wipe walls which may have marks from coats
• Clean hooks and hangers
• Address any shoe storage areas
• Check for and remove odours from damp outerwear

Final Additional Area Touches

• Check all light bulbs are working
• Ensure all storage areas are empty
• Test that all doors open and close properly
• Confirm windows are secure and locks functional
• Vacuum or mop floors one final time after all other cleaning is complete
• Take clear photographs of cleaned areas for your records