Can Landlords Charge for Cleaning After Tenants Move Out?

The LANDLORD'S Perspective

Yes, landlords can charge for cleaning under certain circumstances, such as when the tenant does not leave the property in a clean condition. I rented out a house for a few years, and one tenant in particular did not leave it as clean as when they moved in. The other tenants were okay in their cleanliness, but they would have done a better job.

The main issues included the dirty bathroom and oven. When the tenant refused to return for cleaning or pay for a cleaner, I called in a professional to clean the property. The bill was presented, and after inspecting the property more thoroughly, I found additional damage that a friend quickly fixed without much charge. However, the tenant continued to argue about the cleaning charges, leading to a trip to the tribunal.

The TENANT'S Perspective

During the mediation, the tenant’s position was that they had left the property in an acceptable condition. The mediator was initially frustrated with them, but they continued to stick to their stance. The agents had shown them how to clean the bathroom, yet they still refused to acknowledge the charges. Ultimately, the court ruled against them, resulting in the loss of most of their bond due to their refusal to comply with reasonable property cleanliness standards.

Key Points to Consider

Lease Agreement: The lease or rental agreement should specify whether cleaning fees are applicable. If the contract includes a clause regarding cleaning upon move-out, the landlord can enforce it. Normal Wear and Tear vs. Damage: Landlords cannot charge for cleaning associated with normal wear and tear. However, if the property is left excessively dirty or damaged beyond normal use, they may charge for the cost of cleaning or repairs. Security Deposit Deductions: If a landlord retains part of the security deposit for cleaning costs, they must provide an itemized list of the cleaning charges and any other deductions. Local Laws: Regulations regarding cleaning charges can vary by state or locality. Landlords should be familiar with the specific laws in their area to avoid legal disputes. Communication: It is good practice for landlords to communicate expectations regarding cleanliness before tenants move out to avoid disputes later. Providing resources or demonstrations of cleaning methods can help set clear expectations.

Conclusion: How to Handle Cleaning Charges Effectively

If you are a tenant who has left the property in a substandard condition, prepare to face the consequences. However, it is important to review the lease agreement and local laws for specific guidance. If you do encounter situations where a landlord is charging for cleaning, it is advisable to:

Understand the lease agreement: Carefully read the contract to ensure you are aware of any clauses related to cleanliness and cleaning fees. Keep records: Maintain records of any cleaning activities and the condition of the property before and after the tenant moves out. Communicate: Discuss any concerns with the landlord directly and attempt to find a compromise. If the landlord is unreasonable, seek legal advice or file a complaint with the appropriate local authority. Engage a cleaner: If you agree to a cleaning fee, consider hiring the cleaner recommended by the agent. This can help minimize disputes by ensuring the cleaning is done according to professional standards.

Additional Tips for Landlords

Landlords can also take proactive steps to avoid disputes, such as:

Regularly inspect properties during tenancy to ensure cleanliness. Provide resources or demonstrations of cleaning methods to tenants. Have a clear and fair policy communicated in the lease agreement. Establish a transparent and fair complaint resolution process.

Both tenants and landlords benefit from clear communication, mutual understanding, and adherence to the terms of the lease agreement. By taking these steps, the chances of disputes can be significantly reduced.