Deposit Deductions

Prichard

I have let a property out for two years and the tenants have just left at a mutually agreeable date. They had the carpets and oven professionally cleaned but everything else is a bit of a mess. There is mould on some window frames and blinds, there is filth behind the tumble dryer, numerous cobwebs around the house and food in various kitchen cupboards. My fiancée and I spent about 5 hours cleaning it in order to get it to a similar standard of cleanliness as when we started letting it out. 

As I did not use professional cleaners, how much (If any) am I able to deduct from their deposit? I have pictures showing mould on window frames and curtains as well as other dirty areas? 

If it goes to dispute, who are the TDS likely to favour?

tom9980

Do you have a checkin and checkout inventory and pictures to show the state of the property?

You need to provide evidence to the deposit schemes to make a claim on the deposit.

Prichard

Yes I do. I understand that I have to make an attempt to resolve first. That being the case, what would be a fair sum to charge for the time and products that my fiancée and I spent cleaning the property? 

tom9980

https://www.tenancydepositscheme.com/learn-more/information-tds-lounge/case-studies/

A good place to start, generally landlords in this situation would hire someone to clean with the bill being used as evidence for the amount.

pmlindyloo

This is my personal view!
The truth of the matter is that people have different standards when it comes to cleaning.  Nothing about what you have said suggests that the place was filthy.  What you have described in annoying but not devastating.  The carpets and oven were professionally cleaned - more than a lot of people do at the end of their tenancy!
What would I do?  Send them pictures of the parts you are concerned about and charge them £50 or so.  If they agree then all well and good.  If they don't then let it go. Not worth the hassle, particularly since you cleaned it yourself and it is difficult to assess that work and evidence the hours you put in.  Of course, if you had to replace blinds or curtains then you could charge for that. (you would need the receipt)
I believe that being a landlord often means your place is not going to be perfect when your tenants leave.  Some of it sounds like an oversight on their part.
Just learn the lesson.  Next time get the professionals in and then you can present the invoice if you choose to go to dispute.

Prichard

Hmm thanks - Bit late for that now. Would you advise trying to reach a mutually agreeable sum and if they push back, having to take it on the chin? 

notrouble

Prichard said:

Hmm thanks - Bit late for that now. Would you advise trying to reach a mutually agreeable sum and if they push back, having to take it on the chin? 

Yes. Plus read

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