Move-out cleaning checklist for renters
What landlords check at the walkthrough, and what a professional move-out clean includes.
A thorough move-out clean is the simplest way to protect your security deposit.
Kitchen
- Inside the oven, microwave, fridge and freezer.
- Cabinets and drawers wiped inside and out.
- Stovetop, backsplash and range hood degreased.
Bathrooms
- Tub, shower, toilet and sink descaled and disinfected.
- Mirrors, fixtures and exhaust fan cleaned.
Throughout
- Baseboards, doors, switch plates and vents wiped.
- Floors vacuumed and mopped, carpets cleaned if your lease says so.
- Windows and blinds dusted.
Hiring a cleaning service
Ask what the checklist includes, whether inside-appliance cleaning is extra, and whether they'll come back if the landlord flags anything.