Understanding Cleaning - Related Tenancy Disputes
Did you know that most tenancy disputes are cleaning-related?
Having a clear understanding of the different levels of cleaning is essential. This knowledge helps you accurately assess how the property was received at Check-In and how it should be left at Check-Out.
Our reports ensure transparency and clarity in the cleanliness standards, to help minimise disputes and maintain positive relationships between landlords, agents and tenants.
DIFFERENT LEVELS OF CLEANING
We have curated clear and straightforward descriptions for each different level of cleaning. Once you receive your inventory report, the level of cleaning of your property will be described using one of the following descriptions:
PROFFESSIONALLY CLEANED
A property that has undergone professional cleaning entails a comprehensive cleaning service that covers all areas, including carpets, windows, appliances, and sanitary ware, utilising specialised equipment and products. The outcome is a pristine property that is devoid of any traces of dust, debris, limescale, or grime, thereby rendering it immaculate and ready for new occupants. Should any omissions occur, these will be photographed and noted on the inventory report
DOMESTIC CLEAN
A property that has undergone domestic cleaning is typically cleaned by the occupants or a non-professional cleaner. This level of cleaning encompasses fundamental tasks such as vacuuming, mopping, dusting, and wiping surfaces. While the property is generally clean and orderly, it may not exhibit the same level of meticulousness or attention to detail as a professional clean. As a result, a professional cleaning body may be hired to achieve a higher standard of cleanliness.
BUILDERS CLEAN
A builders' clean is conducted after construction or renovation work has been completed. It focuses on removing construction dust, debris, and residue from all surfaces, including floors, walls, windows, and fixtures. This type of cleaning ensures the property is free from construction-related dirt and ready for habitation but may not cover regular domestic or professional cleaning tasks.
NOT CLEAN
A property described as not clean has visible debris, dust, grime, limescale or clutter. Basic cleaning tasks have not been performed, and the property requires full cleaning to meet acceptable living standards and match the level of cleanliness described at Check In. This level of cleanliness is often the subject of tenancy disputes and should be addressed promptly.
FURTHER CLEANING REQUIRED
A property labeled as needing further cleaning indicates that there are minor areas that were either overlooked or not completely addressed during the professional cleaning process. This may include light dust, minor cobwebs, small grease stains, streaks, fingerprints, or surface marks. A final wipe-down is necessary to attain a completely polished finish.
UNDERSTAND THE CONDITION OF YOUR PROPERTY
We know that understanding the condition of your property is paramount. Our clerks undergo specialised training to precisly describe each item within the property and provide an accurate assessment of the home's overall condition. They employ fair judgment and adhere strictly to industry guidelines.
NEW CONDITION
"New Condition" refers to an item that is unused, pristine, and free from any wear, damage, or signs of prior use. To be classified as new, an item should meet at least one of the following criteria:
Original Packaging – The item is still sealed or wrapped in its manufacturer’s packaging.
Unused Appearance – There are no scratches, scuffs, stains, marks, or any indication of prior use.
Recently Purchased – The item has been recently acquired and, where applicable, a receipt or invoice is available as proof.
Perfect Condition – The item shows no visible defects, aging, discolouration, or deterioration.
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GOOD CONDITION
"Good Condition" refers to an item that has been well-maintained, showing minimal signs of wear and use, but remains fully functional and presentable. Characteristics of Good Condition include:
Minor Wear & Tear – Small, light scratches, slight fading, or subtle marks that do not affect the overall appearance or functionality
No Major Damage – The item is intact, with no cracks, significant dents, deep stains, or structural issues.
Fully Functional – The item operates as intended, without defects or required repairs.
Items in Good Condition may show some signs of previous use but are still in a respectable and well-kept state.
FAIR CONDITION
"Fair Condition" refers to an item that is functional but shows noticeable signs of wear and aging, often due to regular use over time. While still usable, it may require minor maintenance or cleaning.
Characteristics of Fair Condition include:
Visible Wear & Tear – Scratches, scuffs, fading, or surface marks that are more apparent than in "Good Condition."
Moderate Damage – Small dents, chips, or stains that do not significantly affect functionality but are noticeable.
Aged Appearance – Some discolouration, slight warping, or general dullness due to age and use.
Functional but Not Perfect – The item remains usable but may have minor defects that do not impair its primary function.
Items in Fair Condition may need basic maintenance, repainting, or cleaning, but they are not considered damaged beyond regular wear and tear.
POOR CONDITION
"Poor Condition" refers to an item that is heavily worn, damaged, or deteriorated, often requiring repair, replacement, or significant maintenance. It may still be partially functional but is visibly aged and in a substandard state.
Characteristics of Poor Condition include:
Extensive Wear & Tear – Deep scratches, heavy scuff marks, peeling, cracks, large stains, water damage or excessive fading.
Structural or Functional Damage – The item may be broken, unstable, or missing key components, impacting its usability. This may also include heavy mould and water damage
Beyond Basic Repair – The item may require professional repair or complete replacement due to its poor state. Items are unsuitable for long-term use without intervention and often indicate neglect, misuse, or prolonged exposure to wear and aging.
FAIR WEAR & TEAR or DAMAGE ?
We understand that being charged for damage you believed to be fair wear and tear can be frustrating. To provide clarity and peace of mind, we’ve clearly outlined the key factors that distinguish the two, ensuring transparency at the time of your check-out.
UNDERSTANDING FAIR WEAR & TEAR
Fair wear and tear refers to the natural and gradual deterioration of a property, its fixtures and fittings, contents and furnishings over time due to normal use and aging. It does not include damage caused by negligence, misuse, or accidents.
​Factors Considered in Fair Wear and Tear:
The longer a tenant has lived in the property, the more natural wear is expected.
Quality and Age of Items – Older items will show signs of aging even with proper care.
Number of Occupants – More people using the property may lead to increased but reasonable wear.
Level of Use – High-traffic areas (e.g., hallways, carpets, door handles) will naturally wear faster.
Examples of Fair Wear and Tear:
Light scuff marks and light angle wear to walls and skirtings, slight fading or discolouration from sunlight
Flattening to carpets in high-traffic areas, minor fraying, slight discolouration over time.
Light scratches on wooden floors, minor fading of tiles and grouts.
Slight loosening of door handles, minor rust on bathroom fittings.
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UNDERSTANDING DAMAGES AT TENANT COST
Damages at Tenant Cost refer to any deterioration, breakage, or excessive wear that goes beyond fair wear and tear and is a result of misuse, accident, or neglect by the tenant.
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Examples of Damages at Tenant Cost
Large holes, deep scuff marks, unapproved paint work or fixtures fitted to walls, excessive stains.
Non working light bulbs that were functional at check in but not replaced by Tenant
Burn marks, heavy stains, tears, missing sections or water damage to floors, carpets or thresholds.
Mould buildup from lack of ventilation, broken tiles, damaged worktops.
Very loose or broken door locks/ handles, missing handles, forcefully damaged doors.
Broken shelves, missing curtain rails, detached or very loose fittings due to misuse.
Cracked glass on oven doors or hob tops, broken/cracked fridge shelves, freezer drawers and misuse related faults.
Excessive dirt, grease buildup, un-removed rubbish, pest infestations or un removed furnishings.
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