A proper end-of-tenancy window clean covers the glass inside and out, the frames and sills on both sides, and the window and patio-door tracks. A general end-of-tenancy clean often only does the inside glass, so check what's included before you book.
The checklist
Whether you book someone or do it yourself, this is what a check-out inspection tends to look at:
- Inside glass: no smears, fingerprints or condensation marks
- Outside glass, where it's reachable and included in the tenancy
- Frames and sills, inside: dust, mould spots in the corners, sticky marks
- Frames and sills, outside: green film and black streaks
- Tracks and runners on sliding windows and patio doors: grit, leaves and dead insects
- Window handles and trickle vents: wiped, and vents free of dust
- Conservatory glass, if the property has one
Who usually pays for what
The tenancy agreement decides. Many say the property should be returned as clean as it was at the start, as shown in the check-in inventory. Some say the outside windows are the landlord's job. Read yours, and compare it with the check-in report.
Condensation and mould
Black spots in the corners of frames and on silicone are common in winter. Surface mould on uPVC and glass cleans off. Mould that has grown into silicone seals often can't, and the seal may need replacing. That's worth flagging to the landlord rather than scrubbing at.
Timing
Book the windows for the last day or two before check-out, after the furniture is out and after any other cleaning, so nothing gets marked again.
Our end-of-tenancy window cleaning covers everything on the list above and can be done from a key if you've already moved out.
How do you clean window tracks properly?
Vacuum, wipe, then clear the drainage slots. Grit and dead insects come out with a vacuum nozzle. A damp cloth or old toothbrush gets into the corners. Then check the small drainage slots in the bottom of the frame are clear, so rainwater can escape rather than sitting in the track.
What do check-out clerks notice first?
Smears on the inside glass in daylight, dust on sills, mould spots in frame corners and grit in patio door tracks. Those are quick to spot and quick to note. Our post will dirty windows affect my deposit covers inventories and fair wear and tear.
Should you take photos?
Yes. Once the windows are clean, take clear, dated photos of the glass, frames, sills and tracks. If anything is disputed later, photos and the check-in report are what count.
What about moving in?
A clean when you move in is worth doing too, before the furniture arrives. It gives you a fresh start, and if anything is wrong with the windows, you'll spot it early and can report it to the landlord or agent.