By Why These Three Matter Most
When tenants in Edinburgh hand back their keys, letting agents and landlords often focus on the same areas: ovens, fridges, and hidden grease traps.
Even if the rest of the property is spotless, these three trouble zones are where most checkout inspections fail and deposit deductions are made.
The Oven: The Number One Deposit Deduction
- Grease build-up on trays, racks, and glass doors is the most flagged issue.
- A full oven clean can take 1.5–2 hours alone, especially if it hasn’t been touched during the tenancy.
- Landlords expect a “move-in ready” oven, not just a quick wipe-down.
⚡ Tip: If your oven hasn’t been cleaned in months, book an End of tenancy package that includes a full oven clean — not just surface cleaning.
The Fridge and Freezer: Forgotten Until Too Late
- Tenants often forget to defrost freezers before checkout. This adds hours and can even cause water damage if done last minute.
- Mould and odours inside fridges are common complaints from agents.
- Cleaning + defrosting adds 45–60 minutes to the job.
⚡ Tip: Defrost your freezer at least 24 hours before the cleaning crew arrives.
Want to see the full checklist beyond ovens and fridges? Read our The Ultimate Guide to End of Tenancy Cleaning: Tips, Checklist, and More
Grease Traps, Extractors & Hidden Spots
- Kitchen extractor fans, filters, and grease traps are often ignored during tenancy.
- These collect grease, dust, and even insects — and inspectors do check them.
- Expect another 30–45 minutes if these need deep cleaning.
⚡ Tip: Ask your cleaning company if extractor and grease trap cleaning is included — not all basic packages cover it.
How Long These Extras Add to the Clean
If you’re wondering how much longer your cleaning will take in Edinburgh when these hotspots are added:
| Task | Extra Time Needed |
| Oven deep clean | 1.5–2 hrs |
| Fridge & freezer | 45–60 mins |
| Extractor & grease | 30–45 mins |
👉 On top of standard flat cleaning (3–5 hrs for 1–2 beds), these extras can add 2–4 hours.
Want to know the pricing breakdown? Then check out End of Tenancy Cleaning Edinburgh Cost in 2025: What’s the Real Price?
Why Landlords Focus on These Areas
- High replacement cost – New ovens or fridges are expensive, so landlords are strict on cleanliness.
- Hygiene risk – Bad smells or grease left behind make properties harder to re-let.
- Agent checklist priority – These are always listed on tenancy cleaning checklists.
FAQ on Checkout Fail Points
Do I need a professional oven clean at End of tenancy?
Yes. Agents nearly always check ovens closely. A wipe-down won’t pass inspection.
What if my fridge already had stains at move-in?
Refer to your check-in inventory. You are only responsible for returning it in the same condition.
Is grease trap cleaning always required?
Yes, if fitted. Some Edinburgh flats have extractor filters; they must be cleaned or replaced.
Don’t lose hundreds from your deposit over ovens, fridges, or grease traps.
Book your end of tenancy cleaning in Edinburgh with MT Cleaners: fixed price, agent-approved, and deposit-ready.
👉 Call +44 131 272 1337 or Book Online today.
