End of Tenancy Cleaning in Manchester: What the New Renters' Rights Act Means for You

Moving out of a rented property in Manchester can be stressful enough without worrying about whether you'll get your full deposit back. With the recent passing of the Renters' Rights Act 2025, which received Royal Assent in October and comes into force from May 2026, it's more important than ever to understand your rights and responsibilities when it comes to end of tenancy cleaning.

What Does the Law Say About End of Tenancy Cleaning?

Since the introduction of the Tenant Fees Act 2019, landlords in Manchester and across England have been prohibited from forcing tenants to pay for professional cleaning services. This means your landlord cannot:

• Require you to use a specific cleaning company
• Charge you upfront cleaning fees as part of your tenancy agreement
• Mandate professional cleaning as a condition of returning your deposit

However – and this is crucial – you are still legally required to return the property in the same clean condition as when you moved in, accounting for fair wear and tear.

How the Renters' Rights Act Changes Things

The Renters' Rights Act 2025 represents the biggest reform to the private rental sector in a generation. Whilst it primarily focuses on abolishing Section 21 "no fault" evictions and introducing periodic tenancies, the increased security it provides tenants makes protecting your deposit even more important.

From 1 May 2026, all assured shorthold tenancies will convert to periodic assured tenancies with no fixed end date. This means more Manchester renters will be staying in their properties for longer periods, making thorough end of tenancy cleaning all the more critical when you do eventually move on.

Why Professional Cleaning Still Makes Sense

Despite landlords being unable to force professional cleaning, hiring experts like The Professional Cleaning Company remains one of the smartest decisions you can make when moving out. Here's why:

1. Deposit Protection Around 56% of deposit disputes relate to cleaning issues. A professional end of tenancy clean provides documented evidence that you've met your obligations, making it far harder for landlords to make unfair deductions.

2. Guaranteed Standards Professional cleaners work to a detailed checklist covering everything from behind radiators to inside kitchen cupboards – all those areas landlords inspect during check-out that tenants commonly miss.

3. Time and Stress Savings An end of tenancy clean is exhaustive work. After the stress of packing, organising removals, and coordinating your move, the last thing you need is to spend your final weekend scrubbing ovens and grouting tiles.

4. Cost-Effectiveness The average professional end of tenancy clean costs around £300 for a typical Manchester property. Compare this to losing £500 or more from your deposit due to inadequate cleaning, and it becomes clear value for money.

What Needs to Be Cleaned?

Your property inventory from when you moved in is your gold standard. The property should be returned to that same condition. Key areas include:

• Kitchen appliances (oven, hob, extractor fan, refrigerator)
• Bathrooms (tiles, grout, toilet, bath, shower, taps)
• All floors (vacuumed, mopped, carpets cleaned)
• Windows (inside and out where accessible)
• Skirting boards, light switches, and door frames
• Cupboards and wardrobes (inside and out)
• Removal of all rubbish and personal belongings

Protecting Yourself in Manchester's Rental Market

With Manchester's rental market remaining highly competitive, maintaining a good rental history is essential. Here are our top tips:

Take Photos: Document the property's condition on move-in day and again after your end of tenancy clean. These provide vital evidence if disputes arise.

Keep Records: If you hire professional cleaners, keep all invoices and receipts. Most reputable companies offer guarantees on their work.

Compare Against Inventory: Use your initial inventory report as your cleaning checklist. This ensures you're meeting the exact standards your landlord expects.

Communicate: If you're unsure about any cleaning requirements, speak to your landlord or letting agent before your final inspection.

The Bottom Line

The new Renters' Rights Act provides Manchester tenants with greater security and protection than ever before. However, your obligations regarding property cleanliness remain unchanged. Whether you're moving out of a city centre apartment or a family home in the suburbs, ensuring your property is professionally cleaned protects your deposit and maintains your reputation as a responsible tenant.

At The Professional Cleaning Company, we understand the unique demands of Manchester's rental market. Our end of tenancy cleaning service is designed to meet and exceed the standards expected by even the most particular landlords and letting agents, giving you complete peace of mind as you move to your next home.

Ready to secure your deposit? Contact The Professional Cleaning Company today for a no-obligation quote on our comprehensive end of tenancy cleaning service in Manchester and the surrounding areas.