Cleaning has been announced as the main cause of deposit disputes in the private rented sector for tenancies in Liverpool and across the UK.
This is according to the Association of Independent Inventory Clerks (AIIC), which has revealed the issue has been the leading source of complaints since the introduction of tenant deposit protection in 2007.
Figures from the Tenancy Deposit Scheme show the number of cleaning-based disputes has increased from 49 per cent of total complaints in 2009 to 56 per cent last year – this is the highest figure recorded in six years.
Pat Barber, AIIC chair, stated: “We are seeing a sharp rise in the number of properties that require professional cleaning services at check-out and it is a growing problem.
“The main problems are dirty ovens and fridges; stains and marks on carpeting and flooring; bathrooms which have not been cleaned for months; and pet hair and excrement on floors, furniture and soft furnishings.”
She claimed many tenants are shocked to learn the cost of professional cleaning, which can range from £10 to £20 per hour, and often renters argue cleaning issues fall under general wear and tear.
Ms Barber said disputes regularly occur when tenants claim their cleaning obligations were not made clear at the start of a tenancy. To counter this problem, she stressed it is vital a thorough inventory is prepared by the landlord or letting agent and a check-in and check-out is completed with the renter so they are aware of what is required of them.
The AIIC revealed ovens cause the most cleaning-related issues and if they are listed as completely clean at check-in, they must be in the same condition when the tenant leaves. Heavy limescale build up in kitchens and bathrooms is another common problem, with many renters claiming they are not to blame due to living in a hard water area.
Another thing the organisation said to look out for is stained and market carpets. It revealed tenants will often try to hide these marks and even cut out the stain and replace it with carpet taken from a hidden area of the room such as underneath the bed.
You can speak to one of our staff to discuss how to best tackle this issue by contacting Belvoir Lettings Liverpool West Derby on 0151 256 0880.
