Should a Cleaning Lady Clean Baseboards During End of Tenancy Cleaning?

When you’re moving out of a rented property, the last thing you want is for your deposit to get docked over something small-like dirty baseboards. But here’s the real question: should a cleaning lady clean baseboards? The answer isn’t as simple as yes or no. It depends on your lease, your landlord’s expectations, and what’s actually expected in end-of-tenancy cleaning in the UK.

What Do Landlords Actually Expect?

Most tenancy agreements in the UK require you to leave the property in the same condition it was in at the start-minus normal wear and tear. That means no grease on the kitchen walls, no mould in the bathroom, and yes-clean baseboards. Baseboards aren’t just trim pieces; they collect dust, scuffs, pet hair, and footprints over months of living. Landlords don’t want to scrub them after you leave. They expect them to be wiped down, free of grime, and looking like they’ve been properly maintained.

A 2024 survey by the UK Tenants’ Federation found that 68% of deposit disputes involved cleaning issues, and nearly half of those were about baseboards, skirting boards, and door frames. These are low-hanging fruit for landlords to claim damage or neglect. Even if you cleaned the floors, if the baseboards are still smudged, they can argue you didn’t finish the job.

Why Baseboards Get Left Behind

Most people think cleaning means vacuuming, mopping, and wiping counters. Baseboards? They’re out of sight, out of mind. But here’s the thing: baseboards are part of the floor cleaning process, not an optional extra. They’re where dust settles after sweeping. They’re where shoes scrape. They’re where kids draw with crayons. They’re where vacuum cleaners kick up dirt that sticks to the edge.

Many cleaning ladies skip them because they’re time-consuming. You can’t just run a mop over them. You need to get down low, use a damp cloth or microfiber duster, and often switch to a small brush for corners. Some cleaners charge extra for this. Others assume it’s included. That’s where confusion happens.

What’s Included in Professional End-of-Tenancy Cleaning?

Not all cleaning services are the same. If you’re hiring a professional for move-out cleaning, ask for a written checklist. Reputable companies in Brighton and across the UK include baseboard cleaning as standard in their end-of-tenancy packages. Here’s what a full professional clean should cover:

• Wiping all skirting boards and baseboards with a damp cloth
• Removing scuff marks with a magic eraser or baking soda paste
• Cleaning around door frames and window trims
• Removing sticky residue from tape or stickers
• Ensuring no dust or cobwebs remain in corners

If the quote doesn’t mention baseboards, assume they’re not included. Don’t risk your deposit over a $10 oversight. Ask upfront. Get it in writing.

DIY or Hire a Pro?

You can clean baseboards yourself. But it takes time. And if you’re already juggling packing, deep-cleaning the kitchen, and scrubbing the bathroom, adding baseboards to the list might push you over the edge.

Here’s a quick reality check: If you’ve lived in the property for more than a year, and you have pets or kids, baseboards are probably grimier than you think. A quick wipe with a dry cloth won’t cut it. You need a solution-warm water with a drop of dish soap, or a vinegar-water mix-and elbow grease.

Many people try to save money by doing it themselves. But if you miss even one section, your landlord might withhold £100-£300 of your deposit. That’s more than the cost of hiring a professional for a few hours. In Brighton, a full end-of-tenancy clean with baseboards included costs between £120 and £180 for a two-bedroom flat. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.

What If Your Landlord Says Baseboards Aren’t Required?

Some landlords think baseboards are “cosmetic” and not part of the cleaning requirement. That’s wrong. According to the UK government’s How to Rent guide, tenants must leave the property “clean and in good condition.” Baseboards are part of the structure, not decoration. If they’re dirty, it’s a cleaning issue-not a wear-and-tear issue.

If your landlord tries to deduct your deposit for dirty baseboards, you can challenge it through the Tenancy Deposit Scheme. But you’ll need proof. That’s why photos matter. Take clear, well-lit pictures of the baseboards before you clean. Then take more after. Show the difference. If you hired a pro, ask for their checklist with signatures.

Pro Tips for Spotless Baseboards

If you’re doing it yourself, here’s how to do it right:

1. Remove loose dust with a vacuum brush attachment first.
2. Use a microfiber cloth dampened with warm water and a drop of dish soap.
3. For stubborn scuffs, use a magic eraser or a paste of baking soda and water.
4. Work from top to bottom-don’t drag dirt down onto clean areas.
5. Use an old toothbrush for corners and where the baseboard meets the floor.
6. Dry immediately with a clean towel to prevent water marks.

Don’t use bleach or strong chemicals. They can discolor wood or damage paint. Stick to gentle cleaners. And never use a steam cleaner on painted baseboards-it can lift the paint.

Final Answer: Yes, They Should Be Cleaned

Yes, a cleaning lady should clean baseboards during end-of-tenancy cleaning. It’s not optional. It’s not a luxury. It’s a standard expectation in the UK rental market. Skipping baseboards is like forgetting to wash the windows or clean the oven-it looks like you didn’t care. And landlords notice.

If you’re hiring someone, confirm baseboards are included. If you’re doing it yourself, don’t cut corners. Your deposit is on the line. Baseboards might seem small, but they’re one of the most common reasons deposits get withheld. Don’t let them cost you hundreds.

When in doubt, clean them. It’s easier than arguing later.