5 cleaning tips for landlords to avoid tenancy deposit disputes
As a landlord, a deposit dispute is one of the most frustrating problems you can encounter when renting your property. It's even more frustrating when the dispute concerns cleaning, the most contested issue in deposit disputes that we encounter here at the Tenancy Deposit Scheme. However, there are ways to avoid these disputes altogether!
Our customer service team and adjudicators receive approximately 22,500 initial dispute requests a year, so we know what to look out for when it comes to avoiding cleaning disputes. Here, we look at our expert tips on reducing messy deposit disputes at the end of tenancy.
1. Ensure you're using a deposit protection scheme
First and foremost, make sure you are using a deposit protection scheme. This will ensure that both you and your tenants are protected in the event of a dispute. The deposit protection scheme will either hold the deposit for you for free in a custodial scheme, or for a small fee in an insured scheme, where you hold the deposit. They'll also act as an impartial third party and help to settle any disputes that arise.
2. Tenancy agreement detail
The best way to avoid disputes is to be clear about your expectations for the property's cleanliness from the outset. Ensure your tenants know what is expected of them when it comes to cleaning the property. This can be done by including a cleaning clause within the tenancy agreement.
3. Cleaning clauses
Ensure there is a clause allowing you to use the deposit for cleaning costs. If you are giving the tenant permission to keep a pet or perhaps renting to a smoker, consider including a specially negotiated clause about cleaning. This places a clear responsibility on the tenant, and although the claim still needs to be reasonable, the adjudicator's starting point will be looking at the cleaning clause.
4. Inventory and check in
Conducting a thorough inventory at the start of the tenancy is also a good idea. A detailed inventory will document the property's condition and any items included in the tenancy. Make sure your tenants sign the inventory, acknowledging that they have seen it and agree with its contents.
5. End of tenancy check out
At the end of the tenancy, you should conduct another inventory check. This will help you to identify any damage or cleaning issues that need to be addressed. Is there clear evidence, and perhaps photographs where appropriate, showing that the property is less clean at the end of the tenancy compared to at the start? If you discover a problem during check out, you should allow your tenants to rectify any issues themselves. This could be by asking them to do additional cleaning, or arranging for a professional property clean. If you need to arrange for a professional cleaning service, keep a record of the costs and provide your tenants with a copy. Lastly, ensure the cost to clean the property to its original condition is reasonable.
If all else fails, we're here to help
If a deposit dispute arises despite your best efforts, remember that the deposit protection scheme is there to help. The Tenancy Deposit Scheme will act as an impartial third party at no cost to you, helping to settle any disagreements that arise.
Spring Cleaning Guide for Landlords
In partnership with NRLA, the Tenancy Deposit Scheme has created a free, comprehensive spring cleaning guide for landlords. The guide includes essential tips and checklists to help landlords avoid cleaning disputes. Download your copy here.
