The Move-Out Cleaning Checklist That Helps You Get Your Deposit Back

Moving out is a scramble. Between packing, paperwork, and handing over keys, the cleaning is the part that gets rushed. But it is also the part your landlord looks at hardest when deciding how much of your deposit to return. Here is the checklist I use on move-out jobs around Palm Coast, room by room.

Start high, finish low

Dust and dirt fall. If you mop first and then wipe down shelves, you will be mopping twice. Work from the top of each room down to the floor, and save floors for last in every space.

Kitchen

The kitchen is where deposits are won or lost. Landlords notice grease and food residue fast.

Inside and outside of all cabinets and drawers
Inside the oven, including the racks and door glass
Inside and behind the fridge if you can move it safely
Countertops, backsplash, and the sink, including the drain area
Range hood and stovetop, degreased

Bathrooms

Hard water and soap scum build up in ways you stop noticing when you live there. Look at it like a stranger would.

Shower and tub, including grout and glass doors
Toilet, inside and out, base included
Sink, faucet, and mirror
Exhaust fan cover and any dust on it

Living areas and bedrooms

Baseboards, door frames, and light switch plates
Inside closets, including shelves and rods
Windows, sills, and tracks
Any marks or scuffs on the walls
Ceiling fans and light fixtures

The spots people forget

These are the ones that surprise renters at the final walkthrough. Blinds, the inside of the washer and dryer if they stay, patio or balcony floors, and the front door, which is the first thing a landlord sees.

Short on time?

A move-out clean is a big job, especially on top of a move. If you would rather hand it off, that is exactly what a Super Shine move-out clean is for. I do the full deep clean so you can focus on the move, and the place is left ready for the next person.

See move-in and move-out cleaning, or get a free quote.