The move-out checklist that gets your deposit back

Clean it like your landlord is looking for reasons to keep your money. Because they probably are.

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30 Days Before

Give Yourself a Head Start

Give written notice to landlord (even if your lease is ending — yes, really)
Review your lease for move-out requirements (cleaning, painting, etc.)
Schedule a pre-move-out walkthrough with your landlord
Start documenting current condition with photos — timestamp everything
Review your move-in inspection checklist and photos Move-In Inspection →

2 Weeks Before

Start the Deep Clean

Start deep cleaning room by room (don't try to do it all in one weekend)
Patch nail holes with spackle (small dab, wipe smooth, let dry, light sand)
Touch up paint if required by lease (use the EXACT color — ask your landlord)
Clean inside all appliances (see kitchen checklist below)
Arrange to cancel or transfer utilities

Kitchen

The Room That Costs People the Most

Clean inside oven and stovetop (burnt-on grease is the #1 deduction — soak it)
Clean inside fridge and freezer (defrost if needed, remove all shelves and wash)
Clean inside dishwasher (run empty with vinegar, then wipe the door seal)
Clean inside microwave (steam with a bowl of water + lemon for 3 min, wipe clean)
Wipe down all cabinets inside and out (especially above the stove — grease magnet)
Clean countertops and backsplash
Clean sink and faucet (use baking soda for stainless steel)
Sweep and mop floor (get the corners and under the edges of cabinets)
Clean under and behind stove and fridge (pull them out — landlords check)

Bathroom(s)

Make It Look Like Nobody Ever Lived Here

Scrub toilet inside and out (don't forget behind the base)
Clean tub/shower — remove soap scum, scrub grout with baking soda paste
Clean sink, mirror, and faucet
Remove any mold or mildew from caulking (bleach solution or replace caulk)
Wipe down cabinets and medicine cabinet inside and out
Sweep and mop floor (around toilet base especially)

Living Areas

Living Room & Bedrooms

Wipe down all walls (Magic Eraser for scuff marks — test in a hidden spot first)
Clean all windows inside and out
Clean window sills and tracks (old toothbrush + vinegar does wonders)
Clean blinds and curtain rods (dust each slat or vacuum with brush attachment)
Vacuum carpet thoroughly or mop hardwood (consider renting a carpet cleaner)
Clean closet shelves and rods
Clean light fixtures, ceiling fans, and switch plates
Clean baseboards (damp cloth, all the way around every room)

General

The Things People Forget (And Then Pay For)

Replace any burned-out light bulbs (cheap fix that avoids a $15/bulb deduction)
Replace HVAC filter (a $5 filter can save a $50 charge)
Clean front door inside and out
Test smoke detectors and CO detectors (replace batteries if needed)
Remove ALL trash and personal items (check every shelf, drawer, and closet)

Move-Out Day

The Final Walkthrough

Do a final walkthrough — photograph EVERYTHING (every room, every angle)
Check every room, closet, cabinet, and drawer one more time
Return all keys, garage remotes, fobs, and gate cards
Get written confirmation of key return (email works — just get it in writing)
Leave forwarding address for deposit return
Record a video walkthrough with narration and date (your best evidence)

Pro tip

The oven trick: Put a bowl of water with lemon juice in the oven at 250°F for 30 minutes. The steam loosens burnt-on grease. Wipe it out while still warm. Beats scrubbing for an hour and saves your arms.

Pro tip

Compare to move-in: Pull up your move-in photos side by side with how the place looks now. Your landlord will. If something was already damaged when you moved in, make sure you can prove it. View Inspection Checklist →

Pro tip

Know your rights: Most states require landlords to return your deposit within 14-30 days and provide an itemized list of deductions. If they don't, you may be entitled to penalties. Know Your Rights →

Pro tip

$20 that saves $200: Buy a cheap box of Magic Erasers, a can of spackle, a pack of HVAC filters, and a bag of light bulbs before you start. Total cost: under $20. Average deposit deductions for this stuff: $150-$300.

Move-In Inspection

Document everything when you move in so you have proof when you move out.

Renters' Rights Guide

Know what your landlord can and can't deduct from your deposit.