Rights regarding Cleaning Fees

Q: Do landlords legally have to clean between tenants?

Landlords are not legally required to clean between tenants, but it is a common practice to ensure the property is in good condition for the next occupant. While they can charge for cleaning if specified in the lease, maintaining a clean property can help attract new tenants and uphold property standards.

Full question:

What is a tenants rights when charged a cleaning fee when the premises was left as it was given to them?

Category: Landlord Tenant
Subcategory: Residential Lease
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Oregon

Answer:

The following is a portion of an OR statute:

(4) The landlord may claim all or part of the security deposit only if
the security deposit was made for any or all of the purposes provided by
subsection (5) of this section.

(5) The landlord may claim from the security deposit only the amount
reasonably necessary:

(a) To remedy the tenant's defaults in the performance of the rental
agreement including, but not limited to, unpaid rent; and

(b) To repair damages to the premises caused by the tenant, not including
ordinary wear and tear.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What is the cleaning clause in a rental agreement?

The cleaning clause in a rental agreement outlines the tenant's responsibilities for cleaning the property before moving out. It may specify what areas need to be cleaned and the condition in which the property should be left. This clause can also detail any cleaning fees that may be deducted from the security deposit if the property is not returned in an acceptable condition. Always review this clause carefully to understand your obligations.

What should I charge for cleaning my rental property?

When determining what to charge for cleaning your rental property, consider the size of the property, the level of cleaning required, and local market rates. Charges can vary widely, but it's common to charge based on an hourly rate or a flat fee for standard cleaning tasks. Ensure that your cleaning fees are reasonable and reflect the actual work needed to prepare the property for the next tenant.

Can landlords charge for cleaning Colorado?

Yes, landlords in Colorado can charge for cleaning if it is specified in the rental agreement. They may deduct cleaning fees from the security deposit if the tenant fails to leave the property in a clean condition, excluding normal wear and tear. It’s important for landlords to document the condition of the property before and after the tenancy to justify any charges.

What is the maximum a landlord can charge for cleaning?

There is no specific maximum amount a landlord can charge for cleaning; however, the fee must be reasonable and reflect the actual costs incurred. Landlords should ensure that any cleaning fees are outlined in the rental agreement and are justifiable based on the property's condition at the end of the tenancy. Excessive charges may be contested by tenants.

Is a tenant responsible for cleaning after moving out?

Yes, tenants are generally responsible for cleaning the rental property before moving out, as specified in the rental agreement. This includes removing personal belongings and ensuring the property is in good condition, minus normal wear and tear. Failure to clean adequately may result in cleaning fees being deducted from the security deposit.