Data from the Tenancy Deposit Scheme shows that cleaning-related issues account for 56% of all deposit disputes adjudicated in England. Research suggests 63% of UK renters have experienced deposit deductions, with cleaning cited as the most common reason. Many tenants believe-incorrectly-that clauses in their tenancy agreement requiring professional cleaning are legally enforceable.

The law is clear: tenants must return a property in a "reasonably clean" condition matching how it was at the start of the tenancy, accounting for fair wear and tear. Landlords cannot charge upfront for cleaning or mandate specific cleaning companies. A thorough DIY clean that meets inventory standards is legally sufficient.

"We're a cleaning company, so it might seem odd for us to say this-but tenants have rights," said Jason Steel, founder of Mint Handover. "If you can meet your inventory standards yourself, you're legally entitled to do so. The issue is that many people underestimate what 'inventory standard' actually means. A 47-point inspection checklist is different from a weekend tidy-up."

Mint Handover advises Manchester tenants to request their check-in inventory and letting agent's inspection checklist before deciding whether to clean themselves or hire professionals. Key factors include length of tenancy, Manchester's hard water limescale buildup, condition of ovens and carpets, and the specific standards of the letting agency involved.

"Manchester agencies like Countrywide, Bridgfords, and Reeds Rains use detailed checklists," Steel added. "We work with over 23 of them, so we know what they check. If someone asks us honestly whether they need professional help, we'll tell them. Sometimes they don't. But if they've lived somewhere five years and never cleaned behind the oven, that's a different conversation."

Mint Handover recommends Manchester tenants: compare their current property condition against the original inventory, photograph everything with timestamps before and after cleaning, request the specific inspection checklist from their agent, and know that if a landlord withholds deposit unfairly, free dispute resolution is available through government-backed deposit protection schemes.

About Mint Handover

Mint Handover is a Manchester End of Tenancy cleaning company founded by Jason Steel in 2016. With 24 DBS-checked professionals serving all Greater Manchester postcodes M1 to M90, the company has completed over 2,400 successful property inspections with a 94% first-time pass rate. All services include a 48-hour re-clean guarantee and timestamped photo documentation.

Mint Handover is your local specialist in premium end-of-tenancy cleaning. We understand that moving can be a stressful experience, which is why we provide a meticulous, top-to-bottom service designed to help tenants secure their full deposit and landlords prepare for new occupants. Our expert team uses professional-grade equipment and industry-leading techniques to ensure every corner of your property is left in pristine condition. From high-traffic floor areas to hidden grease in the kitchen, we pride ourselves on delivering a "mint" finish every time.

We also provide professional carpet cleaning. Our team performs deep oven cleaning. We offer flexible one-off deep cleans. Our cleaners are fully insured and vetted. We provide free, no-obligation quotes. Contact us today to book your service.

• Jason Steel | Mint Handover

  60 Fountain Street, Manchester M2 2BQ

  07418 359800 | info@minthandover.com | minthandover.com