📦 The Ultimate “Get Your Deposit Back” Move-Out Checklist
Moving is stressful, but losing your security deposit shouldn’t be. Use this room-by-room guide to ensure your apartment looks (and smells) better than the day you moved in.
✨ The “OMG!” Final Touch: Carpets
Most leases require carpets to be “professionally cleaned” upon move-out. Don’t risk a DIY rental machine—they often leave carpets soaked and crunchy.
[ ] Schedule OMG! Carpet Cleaning: Our VLM process dries in 1 hour, meaning you can clean on your very last day.
[ ] Pre-Vacuum: Remove all large debris and dust from corners.
[ ] Treat Stains: Note any pet accidents or wine spills for our technicians.
[ ] Save the Receipt: Landlords often require physical proof of professional service to release your deposit!
🍳 The Kitchen (The #1 Inspection Spot)
[ ] Oven & Stovetop: Scrub away burnt-on food and grease. Don’t forget the drawer under the oven!
[ ] Refrigerator: Clear out all food. Clean the shelves, drawers, and the floor underneath it.
[ ] Dishwasher: Run a cleaning cycle and wipe the exterior.
[ ] Cabinets & Drawers: Empty completely and wipe out crumbs or dust.
[ ] Sink & Disposal: Polish the faucet and run a lemon through the disposal for a fresh scent.
🛁 The Bathroom
[ ] Toilet: Scrub inside, outside, and the base (where dust hides).
[ ] Tub & Shower: Remove all soap scum and mildew from tiles and grout.
[ ] Mirror & Vanity: Windex the mirrors and wipe out the inside of the medicine cabinet.
[ ] Exhaust Fan: Use a vacuum attachment to remove dust from the ceiling vent.
🛋️ Living & Sleeping Areas
[ ] Walls: Use a “Magic Eraser” for scuffs. Patch any small nail holes with spackle.
[ ] Windows: Clean the glass and wipe down the window sills and tracks.
[ ] Dusting: Hit the “invisible” spots: ceiling fan blades, baseboards, and light switches.
[ ] Closets: Ensure all hangers and personal items are removed.
🚪 The Final Walkthrough
[ ] Light Bulbs: Replace any burnt-out bulbs (landlords often charge $10+ per bulb!).
[ ] Trash: Ensure all garbage is taken to the dumpster. Leaving one bag behind can lead to a “haul-away” fee.
[ ] Photos: Take “After” photos of every room as your proof of condition.
[ ] Keys: Gather all keys, fobs, and mail keys for the hand-off.
Click on the image below to download as a PDF.