End of Tenancy Checklist for Tenants: How to Get Your Deposit Back
Cleaning, small repairs, photos and what counts as fair wear and tear, so you can leave a rented home in good shape and protect your deposit.
Moving out of a rented home is stressful enough without arguing over your deposit. Most deductions come down to cleaning, small damage and missing items. A little preparation, and good photos, protect you.
The quick answer
- Compare the property with the check-in inventory and photos
- Clean thoroughly, including the oven, fridge, bathroom and windows
- Fill small holes, fix minor damage and replace blown bulbs
- Take dated photos and videos of every room when you leave
- Return all keys and get a receipt
Know your rights first
In England, your landlord must protect your deposit in a government-approved scheme and give you the prescribed information. Landlords can deduct for damage, missing items, unpaid rent and cleaning beyond how the property was let, but not for fair wear and tear. If you disagree with deductions, each scheme offers a free dispute service. Check GOV.UK for current rules.
Fair wear and tear versus damage
| Usually fair wear and tear | Usually damage |
| Light scuffs on walls | Large marks, holes or unauthorised paint colours |
| Faded curtains or carpets | Burns, large stains or pet damage |
| Worn carpet on walkways | Rips or missing sections |
| Loose door handle from normal use | Broken door or frame |
| Minor marks on worktops | Burns, cuts or chips |
Cleaning checklist
- Oven, hob, extractor and microwave
- Fridge and freezer, defrosted and left open if switched off
- Kitchen cupboards inside and out
- Bathroom: limescale, grout, silicone, toilet and extractor
- Windows, sills and frames
- Skirting boards, doors and light switches
- Carpets vacuumed and cleaned to the standard recorded at check-in; hiring a professional cleaning company is not compulsory
- Bins emptied and the garden left as you found it
Small repairs worth doing
- Fill small picture-hook holes neatly, if your agreement allows
- Touch up scuffs with the original paint colour, if you have it
- Tighten loose handles and hinges
- Replace blown bulbs and smoke alarm batteries if that is your responsibility
- Reattach curtain poles and blinds that have come loose
Do not attempt anything that could make things worse, such as repainting a whole wall in a different shade.
On the day you leave
- Take dated photos and video of every room, cupboard and appliance
- Read the meters and photograph the readings
- Remove all belongings and rubbish
- Return every key and get written confirmation
- Give your forwarding address in writing
For landlords
Our landlord maintenance checklist covers what to inspect and repair before the next tenant moves in.
Frequently asked questions
Can my landlord charge for redecoration?
Usually only for damage beyond fair wear and tear, taking into account the age and condition of the decoration when you moved in.
How long does my landlord have to return my deposit?
In England, it must be returned within 10 days of agreeing the amount. Check GOV.UK for current rules.
Can you help with end of tenancy repairs?
Yes. We fill, touch up, fix handles and hinges, and reseal baths and showers for tenants, landlords and agents.
Official guidance and further reading
Tenancy Deposit Scheme: professional cleaning and deposit disputes
GOV.UK: Tenant Fees Act guidance for tenants
Send photos and your postcode, or call 07444 262522.