We know why you’re here, and we’re here to help you with your moving-out checklist! You may also refer to our end-of-lease cleaning service page for our cleaning checklist.
When moving out, it is quite stressful to think about properly cleaning the property to get your security deposit back. You must ensure that you move out smoothly without any issues. But for this to be possible, you must meet your landlord’s expectations.
When a tenant moves out, the landlord usually prepares a checklist you must meet. This includes the property’s condition and some additional move-out obligations and procedures. But the important factor is leaving the property in good condition. The same condition before you moved in.
So after informing your landlord of your intention to move out, you have to prepare a moving-out checklist to ensure that you leave the property spotless and tidy.
Here is the list of things in your moving-out checklist you shouldn’t forget:
Cleaning the interior
When the property had furniture when you moved in, all furniture must be placed in its original position. Check all the drawers and shelves and remove all your belongings. Shelves and drawers must be emptied, and you should wipe and disinfect them afterwards.
All the doors, windows, and screens must also be wiped and cleaned inside out. Make sure that all curtains that belong to the property must be washed clean before you re-hang them. Glass fixtures like mirrors must be cleaned with glass cleaner to enhance their condition. If the property has an air conditioner, ensure the filter is washed and dried.
Floors and Walls
Carefully check all surfaces of the walls and floors and see if there are scratches and markings. Even a small pencil mark or fingerprint must be removed. You can find cleaning products in the market that could remove these markings. You can also try creating your own cleaner by making a paste of baking soda and distilled vinegar. You can apply the paste to the wall stains and leave it overnight.
When it comes to carpets and rugs, they should be vacuumed and steamed cleaned to remove stains. You may want to hire a professional carpet cleaning company to ensure deep and quality cleaning. Make sure to sweep all floor areas and pay attention to the spaces behind large appliances, such as:
- refrigerator
- freezer
- washing machine
- dryer
These areas contain more dust and cobwebs. After sweeping, mop the floor using a disinfectant.
Kitchen
Among all the appliances in your kitchen, make sure to prioritise your oven, stovetop, or cooking range since this is the most used item in your kitchen. A mixture of baking soda and water can help remove grease and smudges. Also include cleaning the grills, racks, and trays.
There are also eco-friendly multi-purpose cleaners that can help get the job done efficiently. Make sure that all parts are functioning. Next is the dishwasher. Clean the dishwasher’s inside and outside, including the filter, rubber seals, and door. The sink should be your next concern. All food scraps from the sinkhole and any visible stains should be eliminated.
Check if the drain is not clogged and the water won’t stock up. If the sink has some issues, call a plumber to fix it. Wiping the sink with mineral oil using a soft sponge will make the stainless sink look shiny and brand new.
Don’t forget: Lastly, defrost the freezer and clean the inside and outside of the refrigerator, including all the shelves and drawers of the fridge. Replace the bulb if necessary.
Bathroom/Shower room
Every item in the bathroom, including the wall and floor, must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. The tub, sink, shower head, and toilets need special cleaning since these are used very often. Removing all the dirt and stains using a bleach cleaner would be easy.
Don’t forget: Make sure to remove all soap, toothpaste, or any residue. Nothing should be left behind in the bathroom. You should take all your personal belongings with you. Make sure to scrub the floor and walls to remove stains and moulds.
Cleaning the exterior
Inspect all areas outside the property. Find any damage so you can repair it before your moving-out day. If you have been living with pets, remove any mess your pets have created. Also, clean all outdoor furniture like tables and chairs.
Remove all cobwebs and dust from all the window railings. Has the grass trimmed or mowed the lawn if there is a garden? Weeds should be removed, and ensure the walking pathway should be tidy. The garage and driveway must have no oil marks. All trash bins must be emptied, cleaned, and disinfected. Lastly, make sure all outdoor lights are working well.
It is a must that you should clean your rented property thoroughly before you hand the keys back to your landlord. If you don’t want to do the cleaning job or don’t have the time, you can always hire the services from a trusted local cleaning service company near you.
Takeaway
Having a moving-out checklist is ideal when moving out. It will give you a higher chance of getting your security deposit back. Most landlords want their property to look as brand new as possible, like it has never been occupied, so they can easily find a new renter. If you meet their conditions and standards, they’ll return your money.
