AC Cleaning for Tenancy Handover: What to Arrange Before Returning the Keys

Before handing back a flat, arrange a deep clean of window or split-type air conditioners to leave them in a clean state for the next occupant.

When this service is suitable

End-of-tenancy is a common time to clean AC units. A deep clean handles dust build-up, musty odours and drainage issues, restoring the unit to a clean condition. If a fault is found during cleaning, a separate inspection can be booked and quoted independently. Removal or reinstallation is a separate quoted service.

  • Pre-handover cleaning removes dust and odour to restore units to a cleaner condition
  • Faults found during cleaning are reported honestly; a separate fault inspection can follow
  • Multi-unit cleaning follows a decreasing per-unit schedule for units cleaned together

Planning the Clean Before Handover

Allow time before the move-out date to clean in an empty space.

  • Book cleaning before the tenancy end date so the flat is accessible
  • Provide the number of units, type (window or split) and their locations
  • Mention drainage problems or odours when booking so the technician can prepare
  • Keep the receipt after cleaning for handover reference

Cleaning Scope

The base clean covers the items below; steam and outdoor-unit cleaning are optional add-ons.

  • Pre-clean power-on check and recording of unit condition
  • Removal and washing of filters, fan blades and covers
  • Deep cleaning of the cooling coil and clearing of the drain pipe
  • Reassembly and post-clean function test
  • Tidy-up of the work area after completion

What Cleaning Does Not Cover

Cleaning and repair are separate services; any issues found are reported clearly.

  • Faults or cooling problems found during cleaning are reported to the customer
  • Repair is a separate inspection-first, quote-after service
  • Removal or reinstallation of units is a separately quoted installation service
  • Cleaning includes a 90-day drip and leak follow-up (covering issues caused by the cleaning only)

Price and quote factors

  • Number of units: multi-unit cleaning follows a decreasing per-unit schedule
  • Unit type: large window units over 18,000 BTU carry an add-on charge
  • Add-ons: Kärcher high-temperature steam and outdoor-unit cleaning are optional

Frequently asked questions

Is AC cleaning the landlord's or tenant's responsibility at handover?

Handover arrangements are a private matter between the parties to the tenancy agreement. We provide cleaning only and do not advise on or confirm any tenancy obligations. For questions about responsibilities, refer to the tenancy agreement or seek legal advice.

What if a fault is found after cleaning?

Cleaning handles dust, odour and drainage — it does not repair faults. If the technician notices an issue during cleaning, they will report it honestly and a fault inspection (inspection-first, quote-after) can be arranged separately.

The unit is staying in the flat — does it need to be removed?

Removal is an installation service quoted separately from cleaning. If removal is needed, mention it when booking and it can be arranged independently.

Related services

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