Renters lose millions in cleaning deposit deductions

Millions of pounds are being lost by the UK’s renters due to cleaning-related deposit deductions, according to research.

The flat-sharing site SpareRoom found that nearly two-thirds of renters have had money withheld from their deposits over cleaning issues.

This equates to a staggering £724million lost every year.

The average deduction is £250, but some renters face much steeper charges, with 29% having over £500 deducted and 16% losing more than £750.

Just one in three tenants who challenged deductions were successful.

Landlords want their property left in good condition

Matt Hutchinson, a director of the firm, said: “Navigating the moving out process can be a stressful one, for both renters and landlords, and ultimately landlords want to ensure their property is left in a good condition as much as renters want their deposits back.

“Although landlords can’t legally demand that tenants pay for professional cleaning, to minimise the risk of cleaning-related deposit deductions, renters should ensure that they’ve conducted a thorough clean either themselves or using a professional service, as well as staying on top of cleaning throughout the tenancy.”

He adds: “It can be a tricky road to navigate, but transparent landlord-tenant conversations throughout the process can help to ensure there are no surprise deductions at the end of the road.”

Cleaning is a common source of tension

The research also found that cleaning is a common source of tension between flatmates with many using cleaning rotas.

And 17% of renters invest in professional cleaning before leaving their rented home.

SpareRoom‘s research also sheds light on the most neglected household chores – with the oven topping the list as the least cleaned appliance.

The survey found 13% of renters admitting to never cleaning it.

Experts recommend deep cleaning every three months to prevent grease accumulation.

31% of renters never clean the dishwasher

Another neglected item is the dishwasher, with 31% of renters never cleaning it despite its need for regular maintenance to remove detergent residue.

However, tenants are diligent about fridge cleanliness, with nearly a quarter cleaning it weekly.

Experts advise a comprehensive deep clean of the fridge every few months for optimal hygiene.

And 11% of renters do not regularly clean their windows.