Can I charge the outgoing tenant for a professional clean?
You cannot require a professional clean as a term of the tenancy — that is a prohibited payment.
3 min read · Updated 2 August 2026
Overview
You cannot require a professional clean as a term of the tenancy — that is a prohibited payment. You can deduct the reasonable cost of returning the property to the check-in standard where the check-out shows it is dirtier than it was.
Practical guidance
- Photograph every room at check-in and check-out from the same angles.
- Get an invoice or quote for the actual work needed.
- Do not claim for cleaning an already-clean property to a higher standard.
Related content
General information for UK landlords and letting agents, not legal advice. Rules differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland — check your local requirements or take advice before acting.