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January 10, 2025

Podcast Episode 1 - What Is End of Tenancy Cleaning

podcast episode 1 what is end of tenancy cleaning

In this engaging deep dive, our hosts unpack the high-stakes world of end-of-tenancy cleaning in Oxford, where getting your deposit back isn't just about a quick vacuum and dusting. Join them as they explore how Tenancy Clean Oxford transforms the dreaded final clean into a stress-free experience, complete with satisfaction guarantees and professional expertise. From tackling grimy ovens to navigating landlord expectations, this conversation reveals why professional cleaning services might be the secret weapon tenants need in Oxford's competitive rental market. Whether you're a student moving out of shared housing or a long-term tenant saying goodbye to your rental, this candid discussion offers valuable insights into making your move-out process as smooth as possible. Enjoy this show!

Podcast transcript

Okay. So you're finally moving out of your Oxford rental. But before you can breathe that sigh of relief and get your deposit back, there's that one last hurdle. End of tenancy cleaning. And we're not just talking about a quick sweep and mop.

We're talking about meeting those often pretty strict landlord standards to get that precious deposit back. So today, we are going deep into this high stakes world of end of tenancy cleaning in Oxford. And we're using insights from a local cleaning company's website called, End of Tenancy Cleaning Oxford. Yeah. And it's interesting because end of tenancy cleaning, it's really more than just making the place look presentable for the next tenant.

It's about meeting these really specific expectations that are often tenancy agreement. And, you know, if you don't meet them, it can really cost you. It's true. And it really does feel like walking a tight rope for tenants who just wanna get their money back. I mean, landlords in Oxford, like, in many places where renting is competitive, they can be extremely particular about the condition of their properties.

Yeah. They're looking for a truly spotless handover. And that's where companies like End of Tenancy Cleaning Oxford come in. They promise these sparkling results, but also peace of mind. You know, moving can be stressful.

And they're taking the guesswork out of it. It. They offer a range of services that are all tailored to meet these super specific landlord standards. So let's dive into what they offer. We're not talking about just your average weekly cleaning, are we?

Not at all. Their website shows they do a lot more than that. Like, they do everything from the most basic clean to really deep cleans that tackle every nook and cranny. They even offer more specialized services like after party cleaning. I imagine that would be a lifesaver for students moving out of shared housing.

Oh, yeah. For sure. I think it's great that they are really trying to cover all the bases, but what really stood out to me was their emphasis on guarantees. They offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee and even a 5 day reclean guarantee if the customer isn't happy. Plus, they don't require a deposit when booking, and you only pay after the job is done.

Those are some pretty bold claims. Yeah. We see this more and more if it's a strategy in service industries, especially with something as sensitive as a tenant's deposit. They're basically saying, trust us. We will get it done right, or we will make it right.

It's definitely a way to build confidence and alleviate some of that stress for the tenants. But does that no deposit policy actually reduce risk for the tenant, Or is it just clever marketing? That is a good question. It's interesting. On the one hand, it does remove that upfront financial commitment for the tenant, which is appealing.

But on the other hand, it really puts the pressure on the company to deliver, you know, because they aren't getting paid until the tenant is satisfied. I see. So it is like a calculated risk Yep. For both the company and the tenant. But okay.

Let's dig into the specifics of the cleaning process itself. What does a deep clean with end of tenancy cleaning oxford actually look like? Well, they actually break it down quite well on their website. They have these checklists for each area of the house, for example, in the kitchen. They list everything from scrubbing and descaling the sinks to cleaning the oven, the fridge, and all the other appliances, and even things like polishing the countertops and refreshing the cupboards.

Wow. Okay. That is pretty comprehensive. And what about the bathrooms? That is a place people always dread cleaning.

They don't shy away from it. They list things like scrubbing tiles, polishing mirrors Yeah. And disinfecting the tub toilet shower and floor. So it seems like they really are trying to leave no surface untouched. It does sound like they're going above and beyond just your typical wipe down.

Do you think this level of detail is really necessary to meet landlord expectations though? Well, it's hard to say for sure you know without actually seeing a specific landlord's checklist. But I think it's clear that end of tenancy cleaning Oxford is aiming for a very high standard. And I do think all the detail they give is really valuable because it sets clear expectations for the tenant. You know exactly what you're paying for, so there is less room for disputes later on.

Right. It's about transparency and eliminating those gray areas Mhmm. That always seem to lead to those dreaded deposit deductions. Yeah. Exactly.

They're not just cleaning. It's like they're trying to create this bulletproof handover process. And speaking of transparency, they also talk a lot about their COVID 19 hygiene protocols. Mhmm. They mentioned things like disinfecting those high touch surfaces and making sure their cleaners follow social distancing guidelines while they're working.

Is this something landlords are specifically looking for now, or is it more about just reassuring the tenants? I think it's probably a little bit of both. I mean, in a post pandemic world, hygiene and sanitation are definitely even more important for both landlords and tenants. So by really highlighting these protocols, they're not just addressing practical concerns. They're tapping into these anxieties that a lot of people still have about germs and cleanliness.

Right. It's a very smart move. They are showing they're in tune with the current world. And they're taking the necessary steps to ensure the safety of their clients and their staff. Well, let's move beyond the practical stuff for a minute and talk about something they emphasize a lot on their website, their company values.

They talk a lot about dedication, trustworthiness, and excellence. Mhmm. Why do you think they're putting so much emphasis on that? It's about building trust, which is crucial in any service industry, but especially when you're trusting strangers with your home and, in a way, your deposit money. So they're trying to convey that they are more than just a cleaning crew, that they're a team of professionals who really care about their work.

And they do back that up with concrete examples too. Like, they say that they're willing to work within a client's budget and really tailor their services to specific needs. Exactly. They are really trying to paint a picture of a company that cares about its customers, and that's not just about ticking boxes. Okay.

So we've talked about their values and their approach. Now how about the actual process of hiring them? How does it all work in practice? Well, it all starts with a phone call. Just a simple phone call to get an estimated price based on the size of your property and the services you need.

Then they schedule a visit to assess your specific needs and really tailor that cleaning plan to you. That's great. That personalized touch is a really nice touch. Yeah. It's really smart.

They get a really clear understanding of your property and your landlord's expectations, so there is less risk of any surprises or disputes later. Okay. So it seems like they've really thought this through from that initial contact all the way to that final handover. But before we move on, I am curious about something. They mentioned using safe cleaning products, which I'm sure is important for tenants with children, pets, or allergies.

But do they give any more details about the specific products they use? They do mention a commitment to eco friendly cleaning practices, and they talk about minimizing the use of harsh chemicals. But they don't really list any specific brands or ingredients on their website, so that might be something you'd wanna ask about during that first phone call or during that visit if you have any concerns. That's a good point. It's always best to be upfront about those things.

Yeah. Especially when we're talking about the air quality in your home. Exactly. That's good to know. But let's get real for a second.

All these services, the guarantees the personalized approach, it all sounds amazing, but it can't be cheap, can it? Well, that's the trade off. Right? You're paying for the convenience, the expertise, and, of course, that peace of mind. Their website doesn't list specific prices though, which makes sense.

It's all very tailored to the customer. Yeah. But they do mention that they don't charge by the hour. They charge by the job, which can be really helpful for budgeting. Yeah.

That makes sense. So no hidden fees or anything. But how do their prices actually compare with other cleaning companies in Oxford? That's a good question. You'd probably have to get quotes from multiple places to see.

It is worth considering, though, that those guarantees and the thoroughness of their cleaning, it could actually save you money in the long run. Well, think about it. If they do a bad job and your landlord takes money from your deposit for extra cleaning, then you've lost that money. Plus, you've already paid for the initial cleaning. But with this company, you have that 5 day re clean guarantee, which is like a safety net.

So you are less likely to lose money from your deposit. That's a really good point. It's not just about the upfront cost. It's about what could happen. And I mentioned those costs could add up in Oxford.

Oh, yeah. In a market like Oxford, where rentals are in such high demand, landlords can afford to be picky, so they're not gonna overlook anything. Right. And that's gonna cost the tenants money. So it really could be a wise decision to hire professionals.

Yeah. It's like a gamble, but it could pay off. And it's not just the financial side of things. It's the time and effort involved. Oh, yeah.

Definitely. Moving is stressful enough. And Yeah. You know, having to deep clean every little corner of your place on top of that I mean, for a lot of people, it's worth it to just hire someone Yeah. So they can focus on other parts of the move.

It's about outsourcing a task that many would see as a chore. So okay. Let's think about our listener for a minute. They are probably trying to decide whether to do it themselves or hire someone. What advice would you give them?

Honestly, I think the first step is to be honest with yourself about your cleaning skills and how much time you have. Can you really clean to the level that your landlord expects? Do you have the right equipment and products? And most importantly, do you have the time and energy? You know when you have a million other things to do for your move.

That's good advice. And it's not just about the big things, like cleaning the floors and the oven. It's those little details that are easy to forget. Oh, totally. Like cleaning light switches and wiping down skirting boards.

Yeah. Those are the things that landlords notice. And they can really cost you money. Yeah. So you have to weigh the potential costs of DIY cleaning, I mean Right.

Versus hiring professionals. And that cost can vary so much depending on how big your place is Right. Or what kind of cleaning you need. So it's about finding that sweet spot between cost and convenience. And you have to know what your landlord expects.

Yeah. Because that can cost you. Exactly. Okay. So we've been focusing on end of tenancy cleaning Oxford.

But there are other companies out there. So what advice would you give to our listener about how to choose the right company for their needs? I would start with companies that specialize in end of tenancy cleaning. They will be familiar with what landlords in Oxford want. Then I would compare all the services and guarantees, look for companies with transparent pricing and those checklists we talked about, and ideally, a re clean guarantee.

Yeah. And don't forget about online reviews. You can learn a lot from those. Oh, for sure. Always do your research.

Check their website. Read those reviews, and maybe even call them with any questions. It's about finding a company that you trust. Exactly. A company that you feel good about.

And that will help you get your deposit back. Without any issues. Exactly. So this deep dive, it's not just about one company. It's about giving our listeners the information they need so they can make the best choice.

It's about this whole process, this crucial but often overlooked part of moving. Exactly. And speaking of crucial aspects, there's one more piece to this puzzle, the legal side of things. So let's talk about the legal stuff around deposits and end of tenancy cleaning in Oxford. Yeah.

That's important. We've been talking about the practical stuff. But there are laws that protect both tenants and landlords. Okay. So let's break that down.

How might this impact our listener? Okay. So the most important thing to know is that in England and Wales, most tenancy deposits are protected by a government scheme. So this means your landlord can't just keep your deposit without a good reason. And cleaning is a big reason landlords keep deposits.

Oh, yeah. A huge reason. So what are the rules about that? Well, landlords can take money from your deposit for cleaning if the property isn't in the same condition it was in at the start, you know, minus normal wear and tear. Okay.

But those deductions have to be fair, and the landlord needs proof. So they can't just decide to keep it. Right. They have to follow the law. And that's why it is so important to understand your tenancy agreement.

Take pictures of the property at the start and the end of your tenancy. And if you need to get some advice, if you think your landlord isn't being fair That's great advice. So you have to know your rights. Okay. So for our listener in Oxford Yes.

Are there any specific things they should know? Oxford City Council has a website about this. They have information on tenancy deposits and repairs and other things. That's helpful. Yeah.

And there are also national organizations like Shelter and Citizens Advice. They offer free help with housing issues. So if our listener is having problems, they have places to turn to. Yeah. Exactly.

Okay. So let's get back to end of tenancy cleaning. What are some common mistakes that tenants make? One of the biggest mistakes is not reading the tenancy agreement carefully. A lot of times, there are specific cleaning requirements, more than just a normal clean.

And if you don't do it right, your landlord can keep your deposit. So it's not just about cleaning? Right. It's about cleaning to the standard they want. Okay.

Good to know. And another mistake is not taking pictures at the beginning of any damage. That way, you can prove it was already there. Oh, that's smart. And then don't forget to do those final checks before you leave.

Make sure you've cleaned everything, like the oven and the freezer, and taken out all the trash. That's all those little things. Yeah. They make a big difference. Basically, it's always better to be safe than sorry Yeah.

If you're not sure about something. Ask. Okay. So we've covered a lot from that one company to the legal stuff and common pitfalls. So zooming out for a minute, why is this topic so important?

It's important because it's where a lot of things meet, like the tenants' rights, the landlord's expectations, and you know money. It can be a really stressful time for tenants. And it can really cost them. Yeah. Losing your deposit can be a big problem.

Especially when you're moving. So it's about more than just a clean house. Right. It's about protecting yourself. And knowing the rules.

So you don't lose money. Exactly. So it's basically you have to be informed. Okay. So back to end of tenancy cleaning Oxford.

What are your final thoughts about them? From everything we've seen, they seem like a company that takes this seriously. They've put in a lot of effort to make this process easier for tenants. They are really detailed. Yeah.

And they offer guarantees. And they're really transparent. It seems like they're trying to do things right. But we have to remember, they are a business, so it's up to the tenant to decide it's worth the cost. That's true.

But even if someone decides not to hire them Yep. Or any professional company, I think they can still learn a lot from today. Oh, definitely. Knowledge is power. Yeah.

It can really help you have a smooth move. And get your whole deposit back. Yeah. It's like, we've given them all the tools they need to get through this process. Yeah.

Okay. But before we wrap things up, I've got one more question for you. So say you're a landlord in Oxford. Would you be more likely to give a deposit back if you knew a professional company had done the cleaning, like end of tenancy cleaning Oxford? That's an interesting question.

I mean, I think as a landlord, I would definitely feel better knowing that a professional cleaning company had done it because you know they specialize in this. So they know all the little details, and they're focused on those standards that are so important for making sure everything goes smoothly. Right. It's like a stamp of approval. Yeah.

Sort of. Like, it gives you that confidence that the place has been cleaned really well. And that's gotta be important. Oh, for sure. Especially in Oxford.

Right. Where there's so much competition. Exactly. Landlords wanna minimize those empty periods, and they want good tenants. So a professionally cleaned property, it shows that the last tenant took care of it and that the landlord is keeping things in good shape.

It's a win win for everyone. Exactly. The tenant gets their deposit back. The landlord has a clean place for the next tenant, and the company has a happy customer. It really is a good example Yeah.

Of how a service like this can make a process so much easier. Okay. So to wrap up our deep dive, I think the big takeaway is that whether you do it yourself or hire someone, you need to be prepared. Know what's expected of you and know your rights. It's about taking charge.

Exactly. And making good choices for you. And remember, cleaning doesn't have to be a chore Yeah. With the right knowledge. It could be easy.

And stress free. And on that note We'll leave you with one last thing to think about. Mhmm. What about the future? With all the technology these days, do you think we'll start seeing things like virtual inspections or AI that can assess how clean a place is?

Wow. That is a fascinating question. We will have to come back to that in a future deep dive. But for now Cool. We wish you the best with your move.

Happy cleaning, everyone.


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