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Agent-Approved End of Tenancy Cleaning: What “Approved” Really Means (and What’s Just Marketing)

end of tenancy

If you’re renting in Edinburgh, you’ve likely seen companies advertising “letting agent approved” end of tenancy cleaning. But what does that actually mean? Is there an official approval process, or is it just a marketing phrase?

For landlords and tenants alike, understanding this distinction can mean the difference between a smooth handover — or a dispute with the letting agent and deposit scheme.

Is There an Official “Approved Cleaner” List?

Here’s the truth:

  • No official national register exists for “approved” cleaners in Scotland.

  • Some letting agencies in Edinburgh do recommend or partner with cleaning companies, but this isn’t legally binding.

  • Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) adjudicators don’t care about approval status — they care about evidence (checklists, invoices, photos).

⚠️ Don’t be misled by vague marketing. The key is whether a cleaner provides agent-standard results and proof of work.

What Letting Agents Actually Look For

Instead of “approval badges,” letting agents focus on whether the property meets their checkout standards. This typically includes:

Oven deep clean (most common dispute area)

Bathroom limescale and grout scrubbed

Carpets vacuumed/shampooed

Interior windows streak-free

Skirtings, switches, and fittings dust-free

If these are missed, the property risks failing inspection, regardless of whether the company called themselves “approved.”

letting agent approved end of tenancy cleaning edinburgh

letting agent approved end of tenancy cleaning edinburgh

What Makes a Cleaner “Agent-Approved” in Practice

In Edinburgh, the most trusted end of tenancy cleaning companies share these traits:

  1. Fixed-price packages – no risk of hourly overrun.

  2. Detailed checklists – aligned with agency expectations.

  3. Before/after photos – digital evidence pack for disputes.

  4. Invoices stating “End of Tenancy Cleaning” – useful for TDS claims.

  5. Reliability and responsiveness – same-day or next-day slots.

Want to see what a full agent-standard checklist looks like? Read our The Ultimate Guide to End of Tenancy Cleaning: Tips, Checklist, and More

How Tenants Benefit

  • Peace of mind knowing the property will pass inspection.

  • Less chance of losing deposit deductions.

  • Invoices double as proof in case of disputes.

How Landlords Benefit

  • Faster turnaround between tenants.

  • Compliance with HMO and licence inspections.

  • Fewer complaints from letting agents during handover.

Want to know more? Discover the Benefits of Professional Cleaning Services for Your Home and Office

FAQ – Letting Agent Approved Cleaning

Is “letting agent approved” a legal status?
No. It’s usually a marketing phrase. The real test is whether the clean meets the agent’s checkout requirements.

Do agents in Edinburgh require professional cleaners?
Some do, but most only require that the property is returned to its move-in standard (allowing for fair wear and tear).

Will using an “approved” cleaner protect my deposit?
Not automatically. The deposit scheme relies on evidence, not claims of approval.

 

Don’t gamble on marketing buzzwords. Book a letting agent-approved standard clean in Edinburgh with MT Cleaners: fixed prices, evidence packs, and agent-ready results every time.
👉Call +44 131 272 1337 or Book Online today.

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