End of tenancy cleaning
An end of tenancy (move-out) clean is booked by an outgoing tenant – or by a landlord or agent between tenancies – once the property is empty and before the check-out inspection. It's built around what inventory clerks typically check, with the aim of returning the property to the standard recorded at check-in, allowing for fair wear and tear.
Move-in cleaning
A move-in clean is booked by the incoming occupant, whether a tenant or a buyer, before unpacking. The scope is very similar – cupboards, appliances, bathrooms, floors – but the goal is your own comfort rather than an inspection. It's especially useful if the previous occupants didn't leave the property as clean as you'd like.
Because the property is empty, cleaners can reach every cupboard and surface before your belongings arrive.
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Key differences
In practice the cleaning is much the same; the context differs.
| End of tenancy | Move-in | |
|---|---|---|
| Booked by | Outgoing tenant, landlord or agent | Incoming tenant or buyer |
| Timing | After moving out, before inspection | Before unpacking |
| Checklist | Based on inventory and agent checks | Based on your priorities |
| Deposit relevance | Can help meet the inventory standard | None |
| Usually priced | Per property, by bedrooms | Per property, by bedrooms |
End of tenancy cleaning compared with move-in cleaning
