By Why Cleaning Causes So Many Deposit Disputes
In Scotland, one of the most common causes of tenancy deposit disputes is cleaning. Under the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS), landlords can only make deductions if they can prove the property was not returned in the same condition as at move-in, allowing for fair wear and tear.
That makes cleaning evidence critical. Without proper documentation, claims often fail—even if the property was clearly left dirty.
Want to skip all the problems and know the solution? Then read our post on Commercial Cleaning Services: Protecting Your Investment and Reputation and get your money’s worth.
How the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) Assesses Cleaning Claims
When disputes are raised, adjudicators look for:
- A signed check-in and check-out inventory
- Date-stamped photos or videos showing condition
- Invoices/receipts if a professional cleaner was hired
- A clear tenancy agreement clause about cleaning expectations
If these elements are missing, cleaning claims are usually rejected.
Evidence Landlords Should Collect
1. Inventory Reports
- Provide baseline proof of property condition at start and end.
- Must include descriptions and photos of all rooms.
2. Photographic Evidence
- Before/after cleaning photos with date stamps.
- Include key dispute areas: oven, fridge, bathroom tiles, carpets.
3. Professional Invoices
- If cleaners were hired, invoices confirm the standard of work.
- Should list tasks completed (e.g., oven deep clean, carpets).
4. Signed Cleaning Checklist
- Acts as a detailed record of completed tasks.
- Stronger if aligned with agent or TDS standards.
5. Witness Statements
- For HMOs or shared flats, a joint check-out signed by multiple tenants can strengthen the case.
Common Cleaning Dispute Triggers in Scotland
- Kitchen appliances – ovens, fridges, microwaves not cleaned
- Bathrooms – limescale, mould, dirty grout
- Carpets – stains, pet hair, odours
- Windows – smears, missed frames
- General dust & dirt – skirtings, light fittings, switches
According to TDS Scotland, these areas account for the majority of rejected claims when evidence is insufficient.
How to Prevent Cleaning-Related Deposit Disputes
- Use a move-out cleaning checklist and tick off every item.
- Hire professional cleaners for kitchens, bathrooms, and carpets.
- Provide evidence to tenants before making a deduction.
- Keep all records digital in case of adjudication.
Thinking ahead to tenancy handovers? Our End of Tenancy Cleaning Edinburgh Cost Guide shows landlords exactly what they can expect to pay for a deposit-ready clean.
FAQ about Tenancy Deposit Cleaning Scotland
Can landlords deduct for cleaning in Scotland?
Yes, but only if they provide evidence the property was not returned to move-in standard.
What happens if tenants refuse cleaning charges?
The dispute goes to the Tenancy Deposit Scheme adjudicator, who decides based on evidence.
Does professional cleaning guarantee a deposit return?
Not automatically, but professional cleaning plus invoices makes deductions more defensible.
Avoid disputes and protect your investment.
Book a TDS-aligned professional end-of-tenancy clean with MT Cleaners. Fixed prices, evidence packs, and agent-approved checklists included.
👉 Call +44 131 272 1337 or Book Online today.
